The U.S. government has issued a do not travel warning 21 countries, expanding its highest-level travel advisory list amid escalating global security risks. This updated warning highlights countries where Americans face extreme danger, limited consular support, and unpredictable conditions.
Understanding the “Do Not Travel” Advisory
The U.S. Department of State ranks travel risks using four advisory levels. Level 4 — “Do Not Travel” — is the most severe. When a country receives this classification, Americans are strongly urged to avoid visiting, regardless of personal or business reasons.
This status is typically issued for nations with armed conflict, terrorism threats, wrongful detentions, widespread crime, or political instability. It means the U.S. government’s ability to provide assistance is limited or nonexistent. Americans traveling to these locations often face heightened risks, including arbitrary arrest, kidnapping, restricted movement, and lack of legal protection.
The do not travel warning 21 countries reflects the growing number of regions experiencing dangerous conditions, making 2025 one of the most turbulent years for international travel advisories.
The Current List of 21 Countries
Here is the full list of countries currently under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory:
- Afghanistan
- Belarus
- Burkina Faso
- Central African Republic
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Haiti
- Iran
- Iraq
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Mali
- Myanmar (Burma)
- North Korea
- Russia
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
- Ukraine
- Venezuela
- Yemen
These nations span several continents, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Each has its own set of challenges, but they share one common factor: high risk to U.S. citizens.
Regional Breakdown of Travel Risks
1. Africa
Countries such as Burkina Faso, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Mali, and the Central African Republic are dealing with terrorism, civil wars, or armed militias. Infrastructure is weak, government control is limited, and violent incidents can occur without warning. U.S. diplomatic presence is often restricted or suspended.
2. Middle East and Central Asia
Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon continue to face conflict, political instability, and terrorist activity. Wrongful detentions and arbitrary arrests are a serious concern. The U.S. government frequently faces barriers in providing assistance in these regions.
3. Europe and Eurasia
Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine are included due to ongoing conflict, political tensions, and the risk of wrongful detention or harassment of U.S. citizens. Travel routes are limited, and military activity poses a direct threat in some areas.
4. Asia
North Korea and Myanmar (Burma) pose significant legal and safety risks. In North Korea, U.S. citizens face a very high likelihood of long-term detention with no consular access. In Myanmar, ongoing military conflict and civil unrest make travel extremely dangerous.
5. Latin America and the Caribbean
Venezuela and Haiti have experienced surges in violent crime, kidnappings, and government instability. Detentions of foreign nationals have become more common, and U.S. diplomatic operations in these areas are limited.
Recent Updates to the Advisory List
The number of Level 4 advisory countries has grown over the past year. North Korea and Burkina Faso were among the most recent additions, bringing the total to 21. Several nations in the Middle East and Africa have also experienced deteriorating security conditions, prompting updated warnings.
Haiti, Libya, Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon saw their advisories elevated earlier this year as violence increased and U.S. consular capabilities became more limited. The overall expansion reflects both worsening global instability and a more proactive stance by U.S. officials to keep citizens informed of travel dangers.
Key Risks for American Travelers
Traveling to any of the countries on this list involves serious and potentially life-threatening risks:
- Arbitrary Detention: In some countries, U.S. citizens have been detained for long periods with limited legal access.
- Kidnapping and Terrorism: Terrorist groups and criminal organizations actively target foreigners for ransom or political leverage.
- Armed Conflict: War zones pose unpredictable dangers, including airstrikes, roadblocks, and sudden escalations.
- Limited Diplomatic Support: U.S. embassies may be closed or operating under extreme restrictions, making emergency assistance nearly impossible.
- Insurance Restrictions: Many travel insurance policies do not cover Level 4 destinations, leaving travelers without protection.
- Travel Route Disruptions: Flights and border crossings can be suddenly suspended, trapping travelers inside dangerous regions.
Why These Warnings Matter
The “Do Not Travel” list is not just a precaution — it’s an official warning based on real intelligence, security assessments, and diplomatic limitations. Americans who choose to visit Level 4 countries often face situations where evacuation or legal aid may not be possible.
These advisories also affect businesses, humanitarian organizations, journalists, and dual citizens. Companies operating in these countries must prepare for limited support, while families with relatives abroad should stay informed about changing security conditions.
Preparing for High-Risk Travel
While the U.S. government strongly discourages travel to these 21 countries, some Americans may still need to visit for urgent reasons. In such cases, preparation is critical:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so officials can reach you in an emergency.
- Share your full itinerary with trusted contacts in the U.S.
- Develop a communication plan in case internet or phone networks go down.
- Understand local laws and avoid behavior that could lead to misunderstandings.
- Have contingency plans for evacuation or relocation if security conditions worsen suddenly.
Travelers should treat trips to these destinations as high-risk operations, not vacations or routine visits.
Looking Ahead
The list of countries under the “Do Not Travel” warning can change as global situations evolve. Governments may stabilize, conflicts may end, or new crises may arise. The advisory system is updated regularly to reflect these developments.
For Americans planning international travel in late 2025 and 2026, it is essential to review the most recent advisories before booking flights, visas, or accommodations. The growing list of Level 4 destinations serves as a clear reminder of the complex global security landscape.
The do not travel warning 21 countries is a critical update for U.S. citizens abroad. If you plan to travel internationally, check the latest advisories, prepare carefully, and share your thoughts or experiences below.