HANOI, VIETNAM / OTTAWA, CANADA — July 18, 2025 —
Canadian travellers are being urged to exercise increased caution when visiting Vietnam following the Government of Canada’s updated yellow-tier travel advisory. As of July 16, 2025, Vietnam has officially joined countries like Spain and Sweden in Canada’s high vigilance category, reflecting mounting concerns about petty crime, tourist-targeted scams, and heightened security activity in specific regions such as Dak Lak Province.
While Vietnam remains a culturally rich and largely safe travel destination, this latest classification signals a need for heightened situational awareness, particularly in tourist hotspots and politically sensitive regions.
Why the Elevated Advisory for Vietnam?
According to Global Affairs Canada, the decision to update Vietnam’s status is based on a pattern of increasing reports from Canadian citizens involving scams, opportunistic theft, and dishonest travel services in urban centres. Incidents have notably spiked in places like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and beachside resorts frequented by international tourists.
A frequent scam highlighted in the advisory involves unlicensed taxi operators, particularly at Nội Bài International Airport in Hanoi. Several cases involve fake drivers coercing travellers into withdrawing large sums of cash from ATMs after pickup.
Common scam zones include:
- Street markets in Ho Chi Minh City
- Nightlife districts in Da Nang
- Public transit stations in Hanoi
- Coastal areas like Nha Trang and Vũng Tàu
Additionally, Canadian travellers are advised to be wary of unsolicited offers for tours, motorbike rentals, or guided excursions from individuals not affiliated with reputable businesses.
Dak Lak Province Under Watch
One major contributor to the advisory is the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak. The area came under increased scrutiny following violent attacks on police stations in mid-2023. In response, the Vietnamese government increased military presence and surveillance, creating a sensitive environment for locals and foreigners alike.
While Dak Lak offers cultural richness and natural beauty, the Canadian advisory warns against photographing government or military personnel, participating in public demonstrations, or venturing into restricted areas. Violations could lead to arrest or deportation.
How Canada Classifies Travel Risk
Canada’s travel advisory system ranks international destinations on a four-level scale:
- Level 1 (Green): Normal precautions
- Level 2 (Yellow): Exercise a high degree of caution
- Level 3 (Orange): Avoid non-essential travel
- Level 4 (Red): Avoid all travel
Vietnam is currently classified as Level 2, meaning that while travel is permitted, visitors should be particularly vigilant, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Is Vietnam Still Safe for Canadian Tourists?
Despite the advisory, Vietnam remains a rewarding destination for most travellers. Its scenic landscapes, UNESCO heritage sites, and dynamic cities continue to draw millions annually. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), international arrivals in 2024 exceeded 13 million, with Canada representing one of the steadily growing outbound markets.
Popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hội An, and Sapa remain unaffected by the advisory, offering Canadians the opportunity to explore the country’s vast beauty safely when standard precautions are observed.
Travel Safety Tips for Canadians Visiting Vietnam
To reduce risk and ensure a safe journey, travellers are encouraged to adopt the following practices:
Protect Your Documents and Valuables
- Store passports in hotel safes; carry photocopies only
- Use anti-theft bags in crowded spaces
- Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or electronics in public
Use Reliable Transport
- Book rides via trusted apps like Grab or through hotel concierge services
- Avoid accepting unsolicited taxi or tour offers
- Confirm driver ID, license, and vehicle number before boarding
Stay Digitally Secure
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions
- Do not share real-time location on social media
- Enable two-factor authentication for key accounts
Emergency Contacts
- Canadian citizens in Vietnam should register with the Embassy of Canada in Hanoi or Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City
- In an emergency, contact local police or dial the Embassy’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Expert Insight: Travel Responsibly and Informed
According to Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, “These advisories are designed to inform, not alarm. Vietnam remains a remarkable destination, but it’s our duty to prepare Canadians with up-to-date, honest advice. Awareness is the cornerstone of a safe international experience.”
Meanwhile, the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism reaffirmed that the country welcomes all visitors with open arms and continues to implement measures to ensure foreign travellers enjoy a secure and enriching stay.
Conclusion: A Caution, Not a Red Flag
Vietnam’s inclusion in Canada’s yellow travel advisory list does not suggest a crisis but instead reflects a globally adopted standard of proactive caution. Like Spain, Sweden, and other culturally dynamic nations in the same category, Vietnam calls for informed travel, not avoidance.
As Vietnam continues to rise in popularity among Canadian tourists, it’s more important than ever for travellers to do their homework, plan wisely, and remain aware of local conditions. With simple precautions and a respectful attitude, visitors can safely enjoy everything from the buzz of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the serenity of Mekong River cruises.
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