As autumn sets in and many Canadians consider taking advantage of off-season travel deals, the federal government has updated its list of travel advisories for several popular destinations. The alerts are meant to help Canadians make informed decisions and stay safe while abroad, with updated assessments reflecting security, crime, and political risks.
Spain is among the countries now flagged, with Ottawa highlighting the ongoing threat of terrorism and the high risk of petty crime in major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. Tourists are often targeted by pickpockets and bag snatchers, particularly during weekends, holidays, and festivals. Thieves have also been known to stage roadside incidents to lure unsuspecting motorists. Adding to travel requirements, Spain and other Schengen-area countries will begin using the new Entry/Exit System on October 12, 2025, which will collect travellers’ trip details, fingerprints, and facial images at the border.
Sweden has also been listed due to an elevated terrorism threat and persistent petty crime in crowded public areas such as transit hubs, hotels, and tourist attractions. Like Spain, Sweden will adopt the new EU Entry/Exit System in October, affecting Canadian travellers upon arrival.
Beyond Europe, the advisory also extends to Jordan, Madagascar, and Costa Rica. Ottawa warns that Jordan’s land borders may be disrupted by regional tensions, particularly due to instability in Israel and Palestine. In Madagascar, violent demonstrations in the capital recently left casualties, prompting a dusk-to-dawn curfew and raising concerns over further unrest. In Costa Rica, tourists face frequent incidents of petty theft, home burglaries, and credit card fraud, with the government urging travellers to take extra precautions when using ATMs or handling bank cards.
The advisories serve as a reminder that while off-season travel often brings smaller crowds and lower costs, it can also come with risks that demand extra vigilance. For a complete and regularly updated list of advisories, Canadians are encouraged to consult the federal government’s official Travel Advice and Advisories website before making any plans.