MEA lists 9 high-risk countries Indian citizens should avoid traveling to – Here’s why

Indian citizens have been advised to avoid non-essential travel to nine countries, including Bangladesh and Canada, amid rising geopolitical tensions and security concerns.

Amid escalating geopolitical tensions and deteriorating internal security situations in several global regions, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a strongly worded advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to eight countries. The list includes Cambodia, Yemen, Myanmar, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Lebanon, and—most recently—Bangladesh, reflecting a mix of ongoing armed conflicts, civil unrest, and increasing risks to foreign nationals. This updated guidance comes in the wake of renewed tensions near the Thailand-Cambodia border, where recent military skirmishes have prompted the Indian Embassy in Bangkok to caution against travel to affected border provinces.

Advisory on Thailand’s Border Provinces

While Thailand remains broadly stable, rising tensions along its eastern border with Cambodia have prompted new concerns. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has recently flagged seven provinces—Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Sisaket, Buriram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat—as areas of heightened risk. Indian nationals are advised to avoid specific high-risk zones within these provinces, including Phanom Swai Forest Park, Chong Sai Taku, Ta Phraya National Park, and the Chong Sa-ngam border crossing. These areas have recently seen increased military activity and civil instability, raising serious concerns for civilian safety.

In light of the evolving global security environment, the MEA has listed the following nine countries as unsafe for Indian nationals. Citizens are advised to postpone or avoid travel to these regions unless absolutely necessary:

Cambodia (Image: Canva)

1. Cambodia: Job Scams and Cybercrime Syndicates
Unlike most others on the list, Cambodia’s risk stems not from warfare but from an alarming rise in cybercrime syndicates and job scams targeting Indian nationals. Numerous reports have surfaced of individuals lured by fraudulent employment offers, only to be trafficked into forced labor. The MEA has explicitly warned job-seekers to avoid unauthorised recruitment agents and to verify all employment opportunities through approved channels.

2. Yemen: War-Torn and Lawless
Yemen remains one of the most dangerous places in the world due to a prolonged civil war involving Houthi rebels and regional military coalitions. Widespread infrastructure collapse, famine, and lawlessness have left the country in a state of humanitarian disaster. The MEA urges Indian nationals to avoid all travel—by air, land, or sea—and to exit the country immediately if possible.

3. Myanmar: Armed Clashes Near Border Regions
Myanmar's internal conflict continues unabated, particularly near the country’s northern and eastern borders. Ethnic armed groups and the military junta remain in active conflict, leading to unpredictable violence, road blockades, and disrupted communications. Indian citizens are advised to avoid all non-essential travel and to register their presence with the nearest Indian mission.

4. Iraq: Persistent Threats Despite Pockets of Stability
Although parts of Iraq have seen modest stabilization, terrorism, political unrest, and sectarian violence remain pervasive. The MEA has singled out five particularly volatile provinces—Nineveh, Salahuddin, Diyala, Al-Anbar, and Kirkuk—as high-risk zones. Even in more developed cities like Baghdad, travel remains inadvisable due to the volatile security climate.

Syria (Image: Canva)

5. Syria: Escalating Hostilities in a Protracted War Zone
Syria continues to suffer from a grinding civil war, compounded by periodic airstrikes and the lingering threat of ISIS. The MEA has issued one of its sternest travel warnings here, urging citizens to leave Syria immediately and avoid the country altogether. The Indian Embassy in Damascus remains operational but advises extreme caution.

6. Libya: Fragmented Governance and Militia Control
Post-Gaddafi Libya remains fractured, with warring factions and militias controlling large swathes of territory. Urban warfare, unpredictable violence, and widespread arms proliferation make travel extremely risky. The MEA has recommended against non-essential travel, particularly between cities or through remote regions.

7. Lebanon: Crippled by Political and Economic Collapse
Lebanon’s political paralysis and economic crisis have fueled civil unrest and increased the likelihood of violence. Heightened tensions with Israel and armed groups like Hezbollah further complicate the security picture. The MEA advises Indian nationals to avoid travel and for those already in Lebanon to limit movement and maintain contact with the Indian Embassy.

8. Bangladesh: Political Unrest Raises Alarms
Although geographically close and culturally familiar, Bangladesh has recently seen escalating political demonstrations, strikes, and clashes tied to leadership disputes. The unrest has disrupted daily life and transportation, creating an unpredictable and potentially unsafe environment. The MEA has urged citizens to defer travel unless absolutely necessary, and for those already in the country to remain alert and avoid public gatherings.

Canada (Image: Canva)

9. Canada: Rise in Anti-India Activities
In a notable addition to the list, the MEA has issued an advisory for Canada amid ongoing anti-India activities, hate crimes, and politically motivated incidents. Indian nationals, particularly students, are urged to exercise utmost caution and avoid locations known for hosting such events. The advisory emphasizes vigilance and staying away from venues with a history of politically charged hostility.

As international tensions continue to evolve, the Ministry of External Affairs emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and due diligence before undertaking overseas travel. Indian citizens planning to travel to any of the regions mentioned above are encouraged to consult official advisories, register with the nearest Indian embassy, and prioritize personal safety over all else.