Canada has placed Myanmar on its highest-level advice list of nations that are unsafe to visit, along with nations like Russia, Belarus, Venezuela, Sudan, Ukraine, Burkina Faso, and North Korea, each of which has been labeled unsafe owing to increasing armed conflict, political upheavals, terrorism, and deteriorating public facilities. The government advises that Canadians there are under serious risk of violence, arrest, shortage of supplies, and limited freedom of movement and advises them to leave immediately by commercial means where available.
The Government of Canada has expanded its “Avoid All Travel” advisory, adding Myanmar to a growing list of global danger zones. This list now includes Russia, Belarus, Venezuela, Sudan, Ukraine, Burkina Faso, North Korea, and others, all deemed too dangerous for Canadian citizens due to war, civil unrest, terrorism, political repression, or collapsing infrastructure.
Canadians in these countries face extreme risks and should leave immediately if safe to do so. Those considering travel must cancel their plans and seek alternate destinations.
Myanmar Faces Worsening Conflict
Since late October 2023, Myanmar has experienced intensified armed clashes between resistance groups and regime forces. Regions affected include Mandalay, Sagaing, Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Mon, Rakhine, and Shan. Regime airstrikes and ground battles have caused significant civilian casualties and internal displacement.
Canadians in Myanmar risk arbitrary detention, restricted access to goods, and movement limitations due to roadblocks and border closures. Canada strongly advises citizens to evacuate using commercial options while they remain available and to maintain emergency supplies.
Russia Remains Extremely Dangerous
Canada continues to advise against all travel to Russia due to the ongoing war with Ukraine. Military activity—such as drone strikes and explosions—has extended deep into Russian territory, including cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. Authorities monitor communications closely and penalize public commentary on political matters.
Canadians in Russia may face travel restrictions, financial isolation due to international sanctions, and potential military conscription if they hold Russian citizenship. Canada urges immediate departure through commercial flights and advises travelers to avoid sensitive areas, including military zones.
Belarus Supports Military Operations and Limits Movement
Belarus remains a key logistical base for Russian military activity. Canadian officials warn of unpredictable security conditions and limited flight availability. The ability of consular services to assist is nearly nonexistent, as many services—including banking and transportation—face severe disruptions.
Travelers risk arbitrary detention and may face complications exiting the country. Canada urges its citizens to depart using available commercial transportation and not to depend on government assistance for evacuation.
Venezuela’s Political and Economic Breakdown Escalates
Venezuela continues to face severe instability driven by deepening economic turmoil and persistent political upheaval. Demonstrations are likely before and after the country’s scheduled elections on May 25, 2025. Authorities may impose curfews or restrict movement without warning and have previously used force against protestors.
Citizens risk arrest, limited access to medication, fuel shortages, and blocked airport access. Canada advises Canadians to avoid all public gatherings, monitor media, and evacuate if safe to do so.
Sudan’s Civil Conflict Creates Critical Emergency
Since April 2023, Sudan has seen intense fighting between military factions. Armed clashes, drone strikes, and attacks on civilians have devastated infrastructure in Khartoum and Port Sudan. Electricity, medical services, fuel, and food remain scarce.
The Canadian government’s evacuation operations have ended. Port Sudan’s airport offers limited commercial flights, but is subject to drone attacks. Canadians must carefully assess the security situation before attempting to reach exit points and prepare to shelter in place with essential supplies.
Ukraine Continues to Experience Daily Attacks
Canada maintains its strongest travel warning for Ukraine as the ongoing Russian invasion causes extensive devastation. Major cities, including Kyiv, endure frequent missile strikes and aerial bombardments. Martial law remains in place, giving local authorities expansive control over security and civilian movement.
Men deemed Ukrainian citizens may face mandatory military service and restrictions on departure. Canadians in Ukraine should evacuate if possible, follow air raid protocols, and maintain emergency supplies.
Burkina Faso Faces Terrorism and Government Instability
Burkina Faso, following two coups in 2022, faces extreme terrorist threats, especially in border regions. Attacks have targeted government buildings, religious sites, and public venues. Foreign nationals are at high risk of kidnapping.
Canada permits travel to Ouagadougou for essential reasons only and strongly advises against all other travel within Burkina Faso. Canadians currently in the country should stay alert, steer clear of crowds, and actively explore safe options to leave.
North Korea’s Repressive Regime Poses Major Risk
North Korea remains one of the most restricted environments in the world. The government tightly controls movement, communications, and all aspects of life. Foreigners face arbitrary detention and have no legal protections.
Canada warns that travelers entering North Korea may not receive any consular assistance. Severe shortages of food, water, and medicine persist, while surveillance remains constant. Canadians must not enter North Korea under any circumstances.
Canada Urges Immediate Exit and Preparation
Canadians in any of these countries must leave immediately if they can do so safely. Those unable to depart should prepare to shelter in place with essential supplies and maintain regular contact with trusted family or friends.
The Government of Canada advises all travelers to:
- Monitor credible news sources
- Enroll in the Canadians Abroad Registration program to stay connected and receive important updates
- Keep travel documents secure and up to date
- Communicate travel plans with family
- Avoid political discussion or protests
Canada has put Myanmar on its top-level advisory list along with Russia, Belarus, Venezuela, Sudan, Ukraine, Burkina Faso, and North Korea because of increasing conflict, political turmoil, and extreme dangers to civilian life, and has asked citizens to leave the country if possible.
These increased travel warnings are a reflection of Canada’s evaluation of serious and increasing world instability. It is not safe to travel to any of these countries, and staying could lead to becoming stranded with no access to consular services.
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