Home » EUROPE » Latvia Joins Canada, Hungary, US, Germany, Spain, Australia, and More As UK Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Ongoing Security Challenges And Tightened Visa Entry Procedures Across Borders: What Every Travelers Need To Know
Published on
September 27, 2025
Latvia Joins Canada, Hungary, US, Germany, Spain, Australia, and more as the UK issues a new travel advisory due to growing security concerns and evolving entry requirements across these popular destinations. As global travel becomes increasingly complex with heightened safety risks and stricter border controls, the UK government’s latest advisory underscores the importance of staying informed about these changes. Travelers heading to these countries should be aware of updated visa regulations, safety protocols, and potential delays at borders to ensure smooth and secure trips.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) government has issued a new travel advisory, affecting several countries across the globe, including Latvia, Canada, Germany, the US, Hungary, Australia, and Spain. The advisory comes amidst heightened security concerns, evolving entry requirements, and an increasing number of travel restrictions, which are impacting travelers’ ability to move freely across borders. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key details country by country, outlining entry requirements, safety concerns, and practical travel tips that you need to be aware of before planning your next trip.
Latvia: Safety Measures and Entry Guidelines
Latvia, a popular Baltic destination, is currently facing updated travel advisories due to ongoing security concerns and new regulations for foreign visitors. As of recent updates, travelers from the UK need to be aware of the following:
- Entry Requirements: Latvia is part of the Schengen Area, so UK nationals can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or short-term studies. However, travelers must ensure that their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date.
- Passport and ID Requirements: UK citizens should ensure their passport is less than 10 years old at the time of entry, and it must have a valid expiry date at least three months after departure.
- Safety and Security: Latvia has raised concerns about increased surveillance and heightened security in public spaces following global terrorism threats. Travelers are urged to remain vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas.
- Health Guidelines: Entry requirements also include certain health checks. Travelers should consult local health authorities for updates on any COVID-19 protocols or vaccination requirements.
Key Points to Remember for Latvia:
- Valid passport with a minimum of 3 months validity beyond departure.
- Increased security measures in public spaces.
- Awareness of potential health and safety risks.
Canada: Visa Requirements and Safety Considerations
Canada, known for its vast natural beauty and welcoming population, has introduced stricter entry requirements for UK nationals following recent shifts in immigration policy.
- Entry Requirements: While UK nationals can visit Canada for up to six months without a visa, they must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before departure if traveling by air. This online process has become mandatory for most visitors arriving by plane. Alternatively, travelers who wish to work or study must apply for a visa.
- Health Insurance: Travelers staying in Canada for longer periods are required to purchase health insurance from a registered Canadian provider. The insurance must cover their entire stay and meet specific requirements set by the Canadian government.
- Safety and Security: Canada remains relatively safe, but travelers should always be cautious in urban areas where petty crime such as pickpocketing is more common. Political demonstrations have also increased, especially in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Visitors are advised to avoid large crowds and follow local authorities’ guidance.
Key Points to Remember for Canada:
- Mandatory eTA for air travelers from the UK.
- Health insurance requirement for stays longer than six months.
- Stay vigilant in urban areas to avoid petty crime.
Germany: Travel Restrictions and Security Alerts
Germany, a central hub in Europe, has been under scrutiny as UK travelers face new restrictions and evolving safety concerns.
- Entry Requirements: Germany follows the Schengen Area rules, allowing UK nationals to stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months after their planned departure from Germany.
- Security: Germany continues to face heightened security threats due to global terrorism risks. Public spaces, especially those frequented by tourists, are under increased surveillance. Visitors should be cautious in busy areas like shopping malls, transport hubs, and cultural venues.
- Health and Safety: Health checks may be required, especially regarding COVID-19 regulations. Travelers should check the latest travel health notices issued by the German government before departure.
- New Entry/Exit System (EES): From 12 October 2025, Germany will implement the new Schengen EES, which includes biometric data collection (fingerprints and photos) at border control. Travelers should be prepared for slightly longer wait times at entry and exit points.
Key Points to Remember for Germany:
- Passport must meet Schengen Area validity standards.
- Increased security in public spaces.
- Expect longer wait times due to the new biometric entry system.
US: Updated Visa and Security Requirements
The US has always been a popular destination for UK travelers, but the new travel advisory comes with updated entry requirements and safety alerts.
- Visa and ESTA: UK nationals visiting the US for tourism or business can apply for an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). However, those with a criminal record, or who have previously overstayed, will need to apply for a visa instead. The US authorities enforce stringent entry checks at all ports of entry.
- Health Insurance: Travelers must ensure they have adequate travel insurance covering health issues during their stay. Emergency medical evacuation or repatriation services may not be included in standard policies.
- Safety and Security: While the US is generally safe, travelers should be aware of heightened security at airports and large public events. Mass shootings, although rare, continue to be a concern. Be cautious in crowded venues, particularly in major cities.
- Terrorism Risk: The US faces a high threat of terrorism, and UK nationals should remain vigilant, particularly in high-profile tourist spots and public areas.
Key Points to Remember for the US:
- Apply for ESTA in advance for tourism or business trips.
- Stay vigilant in public spaces due to terrorism risks.
- Ensure comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
Hungary: Entry Rules and Personal Safety
Hungary, a rising European tourist destination, has implemented several changes in entry rules and security measures for travelers.
- Entry Requirements: Hungary follows Schengen Area rules, allowing UK nationals to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. However, travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure.
- Safety Concerns: While Hungary remains a generally safe destination, travelers are advised to exercise caution in busy areas like public transportation hubs, markets, and tourist attractions. Petty crime such as pickpocketing is prevalent in crowded places.
- Health and Safety: In light of the ongoing global health situation, Hungary has introduced health checks and testing requirements at airports. Visitors should stay updated on any travel health advisories.
- New Entry/Exit System (EES): As part of the Schengen reforms, Hungary will also begin implementing the new EES system in 2025, requiring travelers to provide biometric data when entering or exiting the country.
Key Points to Remember for Hungary:
- Ensure passport validity for at least three months beyond your stay.
- Stay cautious in crowded tourist spots to avoid petty crime.
- Be prepared for biometric data collection starting in 2025.
Australia: Entry Guidelines and Safety Information
Australia is one of the top destinations for UK travelers, offering a vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes. However, new travel advisories highlight the need for careful planning.
- Entry Requirements: UK nationals need an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) to visit Australia for tourism or business. The eTA allows stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. For longer stays, a visa is required.
- Health Insurance: Visitors must have appropriate travel insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies. Australia’s healthcare system can be expensive for visitors without insurance.
- Safety: Australia is generally a safe country to visit, though travelers should exercise caution in remote areas, especially when engaging in adventure tourism activities like hiking or marine activities.
- Environmental Risks: Be aware of natural risks such as bushfires, extreme weather, and wildlife. It is crucial to stay informed of local weather conditions and follow safety guidelines.
Key Points to Remember for Australia:
- Apply for eTA for short stays or a visa for longer visits.
- Ensure travel insurance covers medical emergencies and adventure tourism.
- Stay informed about natural risks such as bushfires and wildlife encounters.
Spain: Entry Rules and Travel Advisory Updates
Spain, one of the most visited countries in Europe, is experiencing changes in entry regulations and safety concerns.
- Entry Requirements: UK nationals can enter Spain without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, the passport must be valid for at least three months after the intended departure date from the Schengen area.
- Health Requirements: Travelers must ensure they comply with any health and vaccination requirements, especially related to COVID-19, as regulations are subject to change.
- Safety: Spain is generally safe, but like many tourist-heavy countries, pickpocketing and scams are common. Tourists are advised to stay alert, particularly in crowded locations like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville.
- New Entry/Exit System (EES): Starting in 2025, Spain will implement biometric data collection at border entry and exit points as part of the Schengen area reforms.
Key Points to Remember for Spain:
- Valid passport with three months’ validity required.
- Stay cautious of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas.
- Prepare for biometric entry requirements starting in 2025.
Latvia Joins Canada, Hungary, US, Germany, Spain, Australia, and more as the UK issues a new travel advisory due to rising security risks and updated entry requirements. Travelers are urged to stay informed about these changes to ensure safe and smooth journeys.
This guide provides detailed travel information to ensure that travelers are well-prepared when visiting countries impacted by the latest UK travel advisory. Stay informed, stay safe, and make sure your travel documents and insurance are in order before embarking on your next adventure.
