Canada has updated its travel advisories for several countries, including Italy, France, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Morocco, Costa Rica, and Sweden. These updates come amid visa processing delays, growing demonstrations, and heightened security risks in various parts of the world.
Travelers are being urged to exercise caution and plan ahead, as disruptions such as longer border wait times, public protests, and petty crime continue to affect international travel.
Italy: Visa Complications, Protests, and Petty Crime Risks
Canada has issued a heightened travel advisory for Italy, urging travelers to exercise increased caution. Although Italy remains one of the world’s most popular destinations, recent developments have created challenges for visitors.
Visa Challenges and Processing Delays
Italy’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), introduced in October 2025, has led to delays for travelers from non-Schengen countries, including Canada. The system requires biometric registration, which has caused congestion at airports and land borders. Canadian travelers are advised to check visa requirements carefully and allow additional time for processing and border clearance.
Public Protests and Demonstrations
Public protests have increased in Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence. While many remain peaceful, some have disrupted transportation and public services. Travelers are advised to avoid large gatherings and stay informed through local news sources.
Petty Crime Concerns
Pickpocketing and bag snatching remain common, particularly around major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican City. Visitors should stay alert in crowded public spaces, markets, and transportation hubs, and keep valuables secured.
France: Visa Delays, Security Measures, and Civil Unrest
France’s advisory has been updated due to ongoing visa issues, civil demonstrations, and security risks in major cities.
Visa Delays and Entry Barriers
Delays in visa processing continue to impact travelers from outside the Schengen Area. Canadians planning trips to France should apply for visas well in advance and confirm requirements before traveling.
Public Demonstrations
Regular protests in Paris and other cities have disrupted public transport and government services. Travelers are encouraged to monitor official announcements and avoid areas affected by demonstrations.
Petty Theft and Cybercrime
Tourists in popular locations such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are often targeted by pickpockets. Cybercrime is also a growing concern, with fraudsters exploiting public Wi-Fi networks. Travelers should use secure connections and avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas.
Türkiye: Border Instability, Terrorism Threats, and Kidnapping Risks
Canada advises travelers to Türkiye to remain highly cautious, particularly near border areas where security risks are elevated.
Border Security and Terrorism
Instability near Türkiye’s borders with Syria and Iraq continues to pose serious risks. Provinces such as Hakkari and Şırnak face ongoing threats of violence and terrorist activity. Non-essential travel to these regions is discouraged.
Public Demonstrations
Political and social protests are frequent and can escalate quickly. Travelers should avoid gatherings and monitor local media for updates.
Kidnapping Risks
There remains a risk of kidnapping-for-ransom near Türkiye’s southern borders. Foreign nationals are potential targets, and travelers are advised not to venture alone into remote or high-risk areas.
United Kingdom: Terrorism Threats, Protests, and Public Safety
Canada’s updated advisory for the United Kingdom reflects continuing security concerns and frequent demonstrations.
Terrorism Risks
The threat of terrorism remains high, particularly in London and other major cities. Public transportation, airports, and crowded events may be potential targets. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and follow local security advice.
Public Protests
Protests are frequent and can disrupt daily life, especially around government buildings and urban centers. Travelers are encouraged to avoid protest sites and large gatherings.
Petty Crime and Cybercrime
Pickpocketing and scams targeting tourists are common in crowded areas like Piccadilly Circus. Cybercriminals also exploit public Wi-Fi networks, making it important for travelers to safeguard their personal information.
Morocco: Security Risks in Remote Areas and Terrorism Threats
Canada has issued a cautionary advisory for Morocco due to risks in remote areas and the threat of terrorism.
Security in Western Sahara and Border Areas
Non-essential travel is discouraged near the Western Sahara and the Algeria border due to instability and landmine hazards. Travelers should remain within secure and recognized tourist zones.
Terrorism and Kidnapping
Remote regions such as the High Atlas Mountains carry risks of terrorism and kidnapping. Tourists should avoid isolated areas, travel in groups, and hire registered guides when exploring rural regions.
Costa Rica: Petty Crime, Car Theft, and Travel Disruptions
Costa Rica’s advisory highlights an increase in theft-related incidents affecting tourists.
Petty Theft and Vehicle Break-ins
Crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins are increasingly reported in tourist areas including San José and the Pacific coast. Rental cars are often targeted, and visitors are advised to avoid leaving valuables in vehicles.
Cybercrime and ATM Fraud
Fraud involving ATM skimmers and public Wi-Fi networks is common. Travelers should use caution when withdrawing money or making digital transactions abroad.
Sweden: Safety Concerns in Major Cities and Terrorism Threat
Sweden’s advisory focuses on gang-related violence and the risk of terrorism.
Gang Violence and Terrorism
Sweden has experienced an increase in shootings and bomb incidents linked to gang activity. Although tourists are not direct targets, travelers should stay alert in public spaces. The terrorism threat remains moderate but persistent.
Public Demonstrations
Protests are not uncommon and may cause temporary disruptions. Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations and follow local guidance.
The Broader Context
Italy and France now join Mexico, Sweden, Costa Rica, Turkey, Spain, and other destinations facing travel challenges as Canada updates its advisories. Visa delays, civil unrest, and security risks have made travel more unpredictable for Canadians abroad.
Authorities urge travelers to remain informed, plan ahead, and stay alert to local developments to ensure safer journeys.
FAQs
Which countries are included in Canada’s new travel advisory?
Canada’s latest travel advisory includes Italy, France, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Morocco, Costa Rica, and Sweden. These countries are facing various challenges such as visa delays, public protests, and increased security risks.
Why has Canada issued these new travel advisories?
The advisories were updated due to global travel disruptions, visa processing backlogs, demonstrations, and safety concerns. Canadian travelers are urged to plan carefully and stay informed about local conditions before and during their trips.
What are the main travel concerns in Italy and France?
In both Italy and France, travelers are experiencing visa delays, frequent public protests, and rising petty crime. Authorities recommend avoiding large gatherings and allowing extra time for visa processing and border checks.
Is Türkiye safe for Canadian travelers?
Türkiye remains a popular destination but carries risks in regions near the borders with Syria and Iraq. Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to these areas due to instability, terrorism, and kidnapping threats.
What precautions should Canadian travelers take?
Travelers should register with the Government of Canada’s Travel Smart program, stay updated on local news, avoid protests, keep valuables secure, and allow extra time for visa or airport processing delays.
Are European countries experiencing visa delays?
Yes, several European countries including Italy and France have reported delays related to new border control systems such as the Entry/Exit System (EES), which requires biometric data collection for non-Schengen travelers.
What should travelers do if protests or unrest occur during their trip?
Travelers should stay indoors, avoid protest sites, and follow instructions from local authorities. It’s also advisable to monitor local media and contact the nearest Canadian embassy if assistance is needed.
