Latest Warnings
The following warnings highlight the latest updates on threats and conditions the Government of Canada considers unsafe for Canadians around the world, including protests, natural disasters, health warnings, and other hazards. More detailed information on conditions abroad, including the full list of countries and regions for which Travel Advisories are in effect, can be found on our Country Travel Advice and Advisories page and a full list of Travel Health Notices is available on our Travel Health Notices page.
Dengue Fever: Global Update
May 16, 2013
Outbreaks caused by the four types of dengue virus have become increasingly frequent over the past 25 years. About half of the world’s population is now at risk of dengue fever.
Heightened security concerns in Nigeria
May 15, 2013
State of emergency in the states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa. Avoid all travel to these regions.
Novel coronavirus
May 13, 2013
Since April 2012, cases of the novel (new) coronavirus have been identified in six countries: the United Kingdom (UK), France, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The initial cases in the UK and France were identified in travellers returning from the Arabian peninsula and neighbouring countries.
General elections in Pakistan on May 11
May 10, 2013
Canadians residing in or travelling in Pakistan are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, as campaign activities are underway, and some may be marked by violence. Canadians are strongly advised to avoid political gatherings and demonstrations during or after the election. Please note the Canadian High Commission in Islamabad and our consulates will be closed on May 11, 2013. For emergency assistance, Canadians can call our Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa collect at 613-996-8885 or email us at sos@international.gc.ca.
Terrorist Threat in Ethiopia
May 10, 2013
Regional terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaeda and Al-Shabaab, are active in East Africa. Be vigilant in crowded places and monitor local media. Domestic terrorist groups are also a threat in certain regions, including in the Somali region, and parts of the Afar, Oromo, and Gambella regions.
Terrorist Threat in Tanzania
May 10, 2013
Regional terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaeda and Al-Shabaab, are active in East Africa. Be vigilant in crowded places and monitor local media.
Avian Influenza (H5N1): Global Update
May 3, 2013
Avian influenza (H5N1), commonly known as “bird flu”, is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds. Travellers are reminded that countries around the world, in particular, countries in Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa continue to report cases of avian influenza (H5N1).
H7N9 avian flu in China
May 3, 2013
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed human cases of an avian influenza virus identified as A(H7N9) in the People’s Republic of China. To date cases have been identified in the municipalities of Beijing and Shanghai and the provinces of Anhui, Fujian, Henan, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shandong and Zhejiang. Additional cases are expected.
Elections in Malaysia
May 3, 2013
Parliamentary elections are scheduled to take place on May 5, 2013. Political rallies and events will be held in the lead up to the elections, and may attract large crowds and disrupt traffic. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings as they could turn violent without warning. Monitor local media for information on possible disruptions and follow the advice of local authorities.
Measles: Global Update
May 1, 2013
Measles cases occur around the world. Within the last 10 years, the number of measles cases reported globally has decreased significantly; however, there have been a number of large outbreaks, mostly in Africa but also in Europe. The Americas, including Canada, have experienced outbreaks of measles linked to importation of the measles virus from other regions.
Cholera in Dominican Republic and Haiti
May 1, 2013
Since the beginning of the cholera epidemic in October 2010, the Dominican Republic and Haiti have reported thousands of cholera cases and related deaths. Cases of cholera decreased in 2012 compared to 2011, although they continue to be reported throughout both countries. There have been increases in the number of cases during seasonal heavy rainfall in the months of May to July and September to October.
Demonstrations in Bangladesh
April 29, 2013
Following the collapse of the Rana Plaza earlier this week in Savar which housed a number of garment factories and has resulted in hundreds of deaths, violent demonstrations have been occurring in a number of areas of Dhaka city, notably in Savar and Mirpur and Gazipur. Sporadic protests have also been reported in Chittagong. Protests often include roadblocks and have the potential to suddenly turn violent, and can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Canadians should remain vigilant at all times, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media.
Heightened security concerns in Burundi
April 24, 2013
The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura issued an emergency message warning U.S. citizens of heightened security concerns from April 24 to 30, 2013, as regional terror groups remain actively interested in attacking U.S. and other Western and local interests in Burundi. Avoid large gatherings and be particularly vigilant during this period.
Explosion in front of the French Embassy in Libya
April 23, 2013
An explosion occurred today in the Hay Al Andalus Area of Tripoli, in front of the French Embassy, injuring two people. Please maintain a high level of vigilance and personal security awareness, exercise caution, monitor local developments and follow the advice of local authorities. The Canadian Embassy is closed today. For emergency services, Canadians in Libya should call 218(21)335-1633, or send an email to sos@international.gc.ca.
Demonstrations in Egypt
April 19, 2013
Demonstrations across Egypt on April 19th, 2013. Areas that may be affected by demonstrations on Friday afternoon include Tahrir Square, the Court of Cassation, Cairo University in Giza, Mokattam, Sidi Gaber, and the El-Manshiya Courts complex in Alexandria. Be extremely vigilant this weekend, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, stay clear of military offices and facilities, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Situation in Boston
April 19, 2013
Boston local authorities have extended an order to the city of Boston, as well as surrounding areas, asking residents to stay inside their homes during the search for a suspect in the Marathon bombings. Local transportation is currently suspended. Canadians should remain vigilant at all times, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media. Please note the Canadian Consulate General in Boston will be temporarily closed.
Fertilizer plant explosion in Waco, Texas
April 18, 2013
Canadians needing emergency consular assistance can contact our Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 1-800-387-3124 or by email at sos@international.gc.ca. Friends and relatives of Canadians believed to be affected in the explosion can also contact us. The Emergency Watch and Response Centre can help locate missing Canadians abroad.
Updated Advisory for the Central African Republic
April 16, 2013
Clashes between rebel forces and civilians resulted in several deaths in mid-April in Bangui. If you are in Bangui despite this advisory, remain indoors and take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
An earthquake hit Iran
April 16, 2013
An earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale hit a sparsely populated area near Khash, close to the Pakistani border. Transportation, health and telecommunications services may be affected, and land travel could be disrupted. Monitor local news reports, avoid disaster areas and follow the advice of local authorities.
Explosions in Boston
April 16, 2013
Two explosions causing deaths and injuries occurred close to the finish line of the Boston marathon on April 15, 2013. Follow the advice of local authorities. Canadians requiring emergency consular assistance should contact Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 1-800-387-3124 or by email at sos@international.gc.ca.
Situation in South Korea
April 12, 2013
Despite recent statements issued by the North Korean government, we continue to advise that there is no immediate threat to Canadians in South Korea. However, as tensions could escalate with little warning, be vigilant, monitor developments and follow the advice of local authorities.
Upcoming Elections in Côte d'Ivoire
April 12, 2013
Municipal and regional elections will be held throughout Côte d’Ivoire on April 21, 2013. Clashes between activists of different political parties could occur during the pre-election period, on Election Day or after the announcement of results. Canadians should exercise caution, remain vigilant at all times and avoid political rallies as they could escalate and lead to violence.
Threat of kidnapping in Sudan
April 9, 2013
The Foreign Commonwealth Office (United Kingdom government) recently updated its travel advice for Sudan to indicate that it believes terrorists are planning to kidnap Westerners in Sudan, probably in Khartoum. Maintain a heightened level of vigilance in Khartoum and consider regularly modifying your patterns of travel.
An earthquake hit Iran
April 9, 2013
An earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale hit western Iran near the city of Bushehr on April 9, 2013, causing fatalities. Transportation, health and telecommunications services may be affected, and land travel could be disrupted. Monitor local news reports, avoid disaster areas and follow the advice of local authorities.
Regional Advisory for Mozambique
April 9, 2013
We advise against non-essential travel to the rural areas of Sofala and Manica provinces.
Flash floods in Mauritius
April 3, 2013
The cyclone season extends from December to April. Flash floods occurred in and around Port Louis on March 30, 2013, resulting in several deaths. Be vigilant as further floods are possible in the near future. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly. For the cyclone information line, dial 96.
Regional Advisory for Lebanon
April 3, 2013
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the regions within five kilometers of the border with Syria; the regions of Wadi Khaled, Hermel and Arsal; the eastern neighbourhoods of Tripoli.
World Social Forum in Tunisia
March 26, 2013
The 13th annual World Social Forum will be held in Tunis from March 26 to 30, 2013. As a safety precaution, avoid all demonstrations and large crowds during this event.
Regional Advisory in Burma (Myanmar)
March 25, 2013
Avoid all non-essential travel to the townships of Meikhtila, Wundwin, Mahlaing and Thazi, in Mandalay Region, due to serious civil unrest. A state of emergency and curfew are in effect. Be vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.
Updated Advisory for the Central African Republic
March 25, 2013
On March 22, 2013, rebel forces began an advance toward the capital, Bangui. Armed forces are present in the streets of Bangui. The situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate rapidly. If you are in Bangui, remain indoors and take the necessary precautions. Consult the Security tab for more information.
Advice for Canadians in Netherlands
March 19, 2013
On March 13, 2013, the Dutch Government raised its national terrorism threat level from “limited” to “substantial”. While stressing that there are no reliable indications that terrorist networks are currently plotting attacks in the Netherlands, the Dutch authorities have raised their levels of vigilance given their assessment that there is a realistic possibility that an attack will take place in the Netherlands. Exercise caution and maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places.
Malaysia - Regional Advisory for the coastal regions of eastern Sabah
March 6, 2013
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the coastal regions of eastern Sabah, especially the area covering Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna and Tawau, as well as nearby islands and dive sites, including Sipadan. Recent clashes between gunmen from the Sulu archipelago in the Philippines and Malaysian authorities have resulted in fatalities. If you are in this region, you should consider leaving as soon as practicable. Monitor local media reports and comply with the instructions of local authorities.
Death of President Hugo Chavez
March 6, 2013
Venezuela is in a state of national mourning following President Hugo Chavez’s passing on March 5, 2013. Although the situation is calm, remain vigilant and monitor local media for new developments if you are living, working or travelling in Venezuela as the security situation may change.
Elections in Kenya
March 4, 2013
In Kenya, General and Presidential elections are scheduled to take place today, March 4, 2013. We continue to support free and fair elections in Kenya.
Demonstrations and public disturbances, some possibly violent, could occur in the period leading up to and following the elections. There is a heightened risk of terrorism throughout Kenya, including Nairobi. Exercise a high degree of caution, monitor local media and avoid public venues as well as public transportation.
Avoid all travel to North Korea
March 1, 2013
Updated Travel Advisory: avoid all travel to North Korea.
New Regional Advisories in Cameroon
February 25, 2013
Avoid non-essential travel to the Far North Province and the border with Nigeria. Also, avoid all maritime travel to the Gulf of Guinea.
Tropical Cyclone Haruna to hit Madagascar
February 21, 2013
Tropical Cyclone Haruna is expected to make landfall on February 22, 2013. Heavy rains and strong winds will likely affect transportation routes and telecommunications systems. Flooding and mudslides may occur. Emergency and medical care, as well as water and food supplies could also be affected. Avoid any unnecessary travel through the affected regions. If you reside in the affected areas, exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.
Protests in Bangladesh
February 21, 2013
Nationwide protests that could lead to violence and transportation disruptions may occur on February 22.
Phishing emails
February 5, 2013
We have been notified that phishing emails supposedly from the Canada Revenue Agency may have been sent from an “@Travel.gc.ca” email address.
The "@Travel.gc.ca" email address does not exist. These messages are spam, are fraudulent and should be deleted immediately. If you receive one of these emails and wish to report it, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Attack on the U.S. Embassy in Ankara
February 1, 2013
There is a significant threat of terrorism in Turkey, including a suicide attack on the U.S. Embassy in Ankara on February 1st. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly around security and military installations and areas with high pedestrian traffic.
The Embassy of Canada in Cairo will be closed until further notice
January 28, 2013
There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Egypt. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution due to the unpredictable security situation and continued demonstrations throughout the country. For security reasons, the Embassy of Canada in Cairo will be closed until further notice.
Canadians in Benghazi are urged to leave immediately
January 24, 2013
There is a heightened risk of terrorism throughout Libya, including in Benghazi. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
Regional Advisory for Algeria
January 22, 2013
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel outside major urban centres in Algeria.
Increased military presence in Asmara, Eritrea
January 21, 2013
Reports indicate that there is an increased military presence in the capital, Asmara. Be extremely vigilant and monitor local media. We continue to advise against non-essential travel to Eritrea.
Canadians in Mali should leave immediately
January 21, 2013
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada has taken the precaution of authorizing the departure of dependents of Canadian Embassy staff as well as non-essential staff in Bamako in light of the volatile security situation. If you are still in Mali, you should leave immediately.
Deteriorating security situation in the Sahel and North African regions
January 18, 2013
Military clashes are occurring in Mali between armed rebels and government forces. Terrorist groups in the region have declared their intention to increase attacks and kidnappings targeting Westerners. All travellers should exercise increased vigilance in the region, particularly in Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Algeria, Senegal, Sudan, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Libya, Guinea, Mauritania, Chad and Tunisia.
Flooding in Indonesia
January 17, 2013
Recent heavy rains have caused flooding in Jakarta and the surrounding areas, which is likely to worsen. Roads to the Soekarno-Hatta international airport are currently impassable, and much of downtown Jakarta is also inaccessible. You may wish to reconsider travelling to Jakarta until flood waters recede.
Canadians in Mali should leave immediately
January 15, 2013
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to Mali due to political instability and ongoing military clashes, as well as the threat of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping in northern Mali. If you are still currently in Mali, you should leave immediately.
Polio: Global Update
January 14, 2013
Travel Health Notice: The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that travellers get vaccinated against poliomyelitis (polio) when going to countries where there is a risk of infection, or countries located near those that are endemic or have cases of recent infection.
Advice for Canadians in Mali
January 14, 2013
If you are currently in Timbuktu, Gao, Kidal, Mopti, Ségou or in the regions of Koulikoro and Kayes north of the Yelimane-Diema-Ségou-San line, you should leave immediately.
Avoid all travel to Mali
January 11, 2013
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to Mali due to political instability.
Regional Advisory for the regions of Timbuktu, Gao, Kidal and Mopti, and the northern parts of the Ségou, Koulikoro and Kayes
January 11, 2013
Canadians in Mali are advised against all travel to the regions of Timbuktu, Gao, Kidal, and Mopti, as well as the parts of the Ségou, Koulikoro and Kayes regions north of the Yelimane-Diema-Ségou-San line, due to the presence of armed groups and the threat of military clashes, terrorism, banditry and kidnapping. Canadians who remain in these regions despite the risk are advised to leave as soon as possible.
Deteriorating security situation in Syria
January 3, 2013
Battles between Syrian and opposition armed forces have taken place in the vicinity of the airports in Damascus and Aleppo, which could be closed quickly, with little or no notice, and may be subject to checkpoints. Contact your airline to check the status of your flight before travelling to the airport.
Regional Advisory for the Eastleigh neighbourhood of Nairobi in Kenya
December 21, 2012
Avoid non-essential travel to the Eastleigh neighbourhood of Nairobi, where several attacks have taken place recently.
Deteriorating security situation in the Central African Republic
December 21, 2012
Security situation suddenly deteriorated in early December, following a series of attacks by a coalition of armed groups. Avoid any road travel outside Bangui.
Deteriorating security situation in Syria
December 7, 2012
Battles between Syrian and opposition armed forces have taken place in the vicinity of Damascus airport, which could be closed quickly, with little or no notice, and may be subject to checkpoints. Contact your airline to check the status of your flight before travelling to the airport.
Upcoming constitutional referendum in Egypt
December 7, 2012
A constitutional referendum is scheduled to take place on 15 December 2012. Politically motivated demonstrations are expected in the period surrounding the referendum. Be extremely vigilant, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, stay clear of military offices and facilities, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Upcoming elections in Ghana
December 4, 2012
Ghana's presidential and parliamentary elections are scheduled for December 7, 2012. Demonstrations could occur in the period leading up to and surrounding the day of elections. Maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, monitor local media reports and avoid all political demonstrations as they may turn violent.
Regional Advisory for the city of Jeremie in Haiti
November 30, 2012
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the city of Jeremie (Department of Grand Anse), where civil unrest and demonstrations that have resulted in deaths, have been occurring since the end of November. If you are in Jeremie, avoid demonstrations, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
Increased risk of kidnapping in Mali
November 29, 2012
The risk of kidnapping has increased in Mali, including in the capital. Carjakings have also increased in this region. Use varied and unpredictable routes and schedules when moving from one place to another, exercise particular caution when travelling on highways, even in daylight hours, and avoid border areas.
Demonstrations in Egypt
November 23, 2012
Civil unrest and demonstrations have been occurring in many parts of Egypt since January 2011, and have seen an increase since November 2012. This is especially the case in areas of central Cairo, in particular Tahrir Square. Demonstrations can also occur in other urban centres such as Alexandria and Port Said.
Political tensions and demonstrations in Thailand
November 23, 2012
Political demonstrations are scheduled to take place in and around Bangkok (particularly in the areas of Phra Nakorn, Pomprab Sattrupai, Dusit, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, and Wongwian Yai) on November 24, 2012, and may be extended. Avoid affected areas until demonstrations have ended, and expect increased security, as well as possible delays and disruptions throughout the city.
Regional Advisory for the Provinces of North and South Kivu
November 21, 2012
The situation in North Kivu remains tense and uncertain following several days of heavy fighting between the Forces armées de la République démocratique du Congo (FARDC) and the March 23 Movement (M23) in mid-November 2012. Reports indicate that the M23 has taken many towns in North Kivu, including the city of Goma. Fighting could continue over the next few days, and the M23 has indicated its intention to seize Bukavu, South Kivu. Canadians residing in or travelling to North Kivu and South Kivu who think that their security is at risk should leave the province immediately
Regional Advisory for the Rubavu District
November 21, 2012
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the Rubavu District (formerly Gisenyi) due to the possibility of artillery and gunfire exchanges in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), near the Rwandan border. On November 19, 2012, several deaths and injuries were reported in the area as a result of artillery fire. Canadians residing in or travelling to the Rubavu District who think that their security is at risk should leave the area immediately.
Possibility of civil unrest in Mumbai
November 17, 2012
There is a greater possibility of civil unrest in Mumbai associated with the death of Bal Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena political party, on November 17, 2012. If you are in Mumbai, monitor developments and follow the advice of Indian authorities. Be cautious and avoid crowds and areas where funeral processions are taking place.
Regional Advisory for the regions of Israel surrounding the Gaza Strip
November 15, 2012
Avoid non-essential travel to the region surrounding the Gaza Strip due to the risk of rocket and mortar launches, gunfire and ongoing military activity.
Earthquake in Guatemala
November 7, 2012
On November 7, 2012, an earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck near Champerico, causing deaths and damage to infrastructure. The departments of San Marcos, Quetzaltenango, Huehutenango and Quiche are the most affected. Roads and telecommunications systems have been affected. Local authorities recommend against road travel in the affected area. Canadians should monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
Meningococcal Disease in Africa
November 7, 2012
Travel Health Notice: The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends vaccination against meningococcal disease (commonly called meningitis) when travelling to areas experiencing outbreaks and for high risk travellers.
UN Conference in Qatar, be vigilant
November 6, 2012
The UN Climate Change Conference (COP 18) will take place from November 26, 2012 to December 7, 2012 in Doha. Travellers are advised to take sensible precautions and to maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places. Canadians are also advised to avoid demonstrations, monitor local developments and follow the advice of local authorities.
Upcoming elections in Ghana
November 1, 2012
Ghana's presidential and parliamentary elections are scheduled to take place on December 7, 2012. We advise Canadians to exercise caution around large crowds and to avoid all demonstrations in the lead up to the elections.
Upcoming elections in Burkina Faso
October 31, 2012
Legislative elections are scheduled to take place in Burkina Faso on December 2, 2012. Politically motivated demonstrations may occur in the period surrounding the elections. Canadians are advised to avoid all gatherings and demonstrations and to stay away from areas where they occur, as they may turn violent without warning. They should also monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in East and Southeast Asia
October 3, 2012
Travel Health Notice: Since the beginning of 2012, a number of countries in East and Southeast Asia have reported large numbers of cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). The majority of the infected cases are reported in young children. A number of deaths have also been reported. The countries that are mainly affected by HFMD in this region include Cambodia, China, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
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