Ottawa, Canada – The Government of Canada has officially updated its travel advisory for Vietnam, placing the Southeast Asian destination in the same cautionary category as Spain and Sweden. As of July 16, 2025, Vietnam has been issued a “yellow” travel alert, urging Canadian tourists to exercise a high degree of caution during their stay.
The elevated warning follows a surge in reports of tourist-targeted scams, especially in urban and high-traffic areas, as well as increased security concerns in Vietnam’s Central Highlands region, particularly Dak Lak Province.
Canada’s Travel Advisory System: What a Yellow Alert Means
Canada’s travel advice system is structured across four levels:
- Green – Normal safety precautions
- Yellow – Exercise a high degree of caution
- Orange – Avoid non-essential travel
- Red – Avoid all travel
Vietnam’s yellow designation does not imply imminent danger but encourages travelers to remain alert and informed. Similar to advisories for Spain and Sweden, the caution underscores the need for situational awareness, especially in major tourist destinations and politically sensitive regions.
Why the Advisory? Key Risks Highlighted by Canadian Authorities
According to Global Affairs Canada, the revised guidance stems from:
- Rising incidents of scams involving unlicensed taxis, aggressive street vendors, and inflated pricing schemes in tourist hotspots like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Localized unrest and security concerns in provinces like Dak Lak, where recent political tensions and violent incidents prompted increased military and police surveillance.
- Targeted pickpocketing and identity theft in markets, transit hubs, and ATMs—particularly near Nội Bài International Airport and central Saigon.
One of the most commonly reported scams involves unauthorized taxis forcing travelers to withdraw large sums from ATMs under pressure. Other scams include fake travel agents and rigged exchange counters.
Spotlight on Dak Lak: Security Concerns Continue
The Central Highlands province of Dak Lak remains under heightened scrutiny. This follows the June 2023 attacks on local police stations that led to casualties and increased military presence. Visitors are strongly advised:
- Not to photograph military or police activity
- To avoid participating in political demonstrations
- To comply with local instructions and curfews without resistance
Canadian authorities stress that breaches of these recommendations could lead to arrest or deportation, especially given the strict local laws concerning national security.
Canadian Travel Trends: Vietnam’s Rising Popularity
Despite the advisory, Vietnam remains a growing favourite for Canadian tourists. Data from Statistics Canada shows a 12% increase in Canadian outbound travel to Vietnam in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. Popular destinations include:
- Hanoi: For its old quarter charm, museums, and culinary heritage
- Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnam’s bustling southern metropolis
- Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its limestone karsts and island caves
- Hue and Hoi An: Historic cities filled with temples, imperial ruins, and lantern-lit streets
Vietnam offers affordable luxury, direct international flights from Vancouver and Toronto, and increasing infrastructure to support tourism. However, this rapid growth has also led to increased opportunities for fraud and unregulated tourism activity.
Travel Safety Tips for Canadians Visiting Vietnam
Canadian officials recommend the following precautions to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience:
1. Use Legitimate Services
- Book transportation via apps like Grab or arrange pickups through hotels
- Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for accommodation or excursions
2. Secure Your Belongings
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
- Carry digital copies of key documents
- Avoid flashing cash or expensive accessories in public
3. Beware of Scams
- Avoid engaging with street vendors who approach aggressively
- Always verify taxi identification, including plate and driver license
- Decline offers that appear “too good to be true”
4. Respect Local Customs and Laws
- Dress modestly, especially at religious or historical sites
- Do not take part in protests or take photos of government facilities
- Carry a copy of your passport ID page and visa for police checks
Is Vietnam Still Safe to Visit?
Yes, for the majority of travelers who exercise standard safety practices. Vietnam continues to welcome millions of international tourists each year and ranks as one of the top cultural destinations in Southeast Asia. Canadian travelers who stay alert and adhere to local guidance rarely face major issues.
As the Canadian government noted, the yellow alert is a caution—not a deterrent. Like advisories in place for Spain and Sweden, it signals the importance of proactive, informed travel rather than avoidance.
Final Word: Enjoy Vietnam Responsibly
Vietnam’s vibrant cities, historic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes offer unforgettable experiences. From the colonial charm of Hanoi to the beaches of Da Nang, Canadian travelers can still explore safely by taking simple precautions and respecting local laws.
With Canada’s upgraded advisory in mind, visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant, use verified services, and avoid high-risk areas like Dak Lak Province. In doing so, travelers can enjoy the full beauty of Vietnam—confidently and responsibly.
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