Canada has released a new regional travel advisory for several Asian destinations, urging tourists to stay alert as political tensions, protests, and new visa rules reshape travel conditions. Countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, India, and the Philippines are now flagged for higher security risks. Governments across Asia continue to tighten border controls and introduce digital entry systems, making it essential for visitors to stay updated on the latest requirements.
The advisory highlights the fast-changing situation across the region and encourages travelers to stay informed, avoid demonstrations, and follow directions from local authorities. With widespread unrest, security deployments, and new immigration procedures, planning ahead has become more important than ever.
Thailand: Protests and New Visa Rules Redefine Travel
Thailand continues to face political tensions that have triggered frequent protests, especially in Bangkok. Demonstrations often appear at major intersections, universities, and government areas. While many gatherings start peacefully, they can escalate rapidly.
Travelers are urged to avoid protest sites and allow extra time for transportation delays. Authorities sometimes impose curfews or road closures to manage civil unrest.
Thailand’s Digital Travel Authorization
Thailand is preparing to launch a mandatory Digital Arrival Card, expected to roll out in 2026. This system will streamline border processing but requires travelers to register before arrival. Land borders, especially near conflict-prone areas close to Myanmar and Cambodia, may experience limited hours or temporary closures. Tourists should confirm visa status before departure and keep updated on any entry rule changes.
Vietnam: Petty Crime and Scams Worry Tourists
Vietnam remains one of Southeast Asia’s busiest tourism hubs, yet crime risks are rising in major cities. Pickpocketing, bag slashing, and purse snatching occur in crowded markets, bus stations, and nightlife zones.
Online scams and card fraud are also increasing. Fake job offers, phishing schemes, and romance scams target foreigners more frequently. Visitors should keep valuables secure and use only verified services.
Safety for Women Travelers
Women traveling alone should stay alert in nightlife areas and avoid isolated locations late at night. Incidents of harassment have been reported in coastal cities and entertainment districts.
Vietnam Visa Reminders
Travelers staying beyond 15 days must secure the correct visa. Overstaying fines apply, and tourists should avoid unofficial online visa agencies to prevent fraud.
Sri Lanka: Demonstrations and Security Alerts Continue
Sri Lanka is stabilizing after years of economic strain, but protests still occur in Colombo and other urban centers. Demonstrations can become unruly, and security forces respond swiftly.
Terrorism Concerns
Despite strengthened national security measures after the 2019 attacks, authorities remain on high alert. Visitors should avoid crowded public gatherings and stay informed about local developments.
Entry Requirements
Sri Lanka requires travelers to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization prior to arrival. Confirming visa validity and travel documents is essential due to the unpredictable political climate.
India: High-Risk Regions Require Extra Caution
India’s vast landscape offers rich cultural experiences but includes several regions with elevated security threats. Areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and Manipur continue to face insurgent activity and periodic clashes.
Crime and Fraud
Major cities report rising thefts, bag snatching, and ATM fraud. Tourists should avoid unofficial tour operators, inflated taxi fares, and high-pressure sales scams.
Visa Updates
India’s e-Visa system remains active, but travelers must use official channels. Entry checks are strict in sensitive regions, and foreign visitors must comply with all documentation requirements.
Malaysia: Security Concerns Escalate in Eastern Sabah
Eastern Sabah remains under heavy security watch due to the threat of kidnappings by cross-border groups. Coastal resorts and offshore islands carry increased risk, especially after dark.
Public Demonstrations
Protests also occur periodically in major cities. While many gatherings stay peaceful, security forces act quickly if tensions rise. Foreigners are legally prohibited from joining demonstrations.
Visa Rules
Canadian tourists can stay up to 90 days without a visa but must ensure their passport has six months of validity.
Philippines: Terrorism and Crime Risks Persist in Southern Regions
Mindanao remains high-risk due to insurgent groups and kidnapping threats. Provinces such as Basilan, Sulu, and Zamboanga should be avoided for non-essential travel.
Crime in Urban Centers
Metro Manila has higher rates of petty theft and occasional violent crime. Visitors should use regulated transportation and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Visa Information
Stays beyond 30 days require a visa, and travelers must follow official processes to avoid scams.
Japan: Petty Crime Rises as Geopolitical Tensions Increase
Japan remains one of Asia’s safest destinations, yet some districts in Tokyo, such as Kabukicho and Roppongi, report rising petty crime. Visitors should stay alert in nightlife zones.
Regional Security Climate
Japan continues to monitor missile activity and international tensions in East Asia. Tourists should pay attention to local safety announcements.
Staying Safe While Traveling Across Asia
As Asia navigates political shifts, security concerns, and updated immigration requirements, visitors must prepare thoroughly. Monitoring local news, avoiding protests, securing proper visas, and following official safety advisories can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey across the region.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
