21 Countries Americans Are Urged to Avoid Right Now—Some May Surprise You

The U.S. government is sounding the alarm on international travel, issuing “do not travel” warnings for 21 countries where the risk to American citizens is considered life-threatening. The State Department routinely updates advisories to help travelers make informed decisions, and the current list highlights global hot spots plagued by terrorism, violent crime, political instability, and kidnapping.

These Level 4 warnings represent the highest risk designation the government can issue. According to officials, in some of these countries, the U.S. may not be able to provide help even in emergencies. Citizens are strongly urged to avoid travel or to leave immediately if they are already in these locations.

The countries currently on the “do not travel” list include:
North Korea
Burkina Faso
Yemen
Iran
South Sudan
Syria
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Afghanistan
Lebanon
Central African Republic
Belarus
Iraq
Ukraine
Venezuela
Haiti
Libya
Somalia
Russia
Burma
Mali
Sudan
North Korea is one of the most tightly restricted destinations, with the U.S. warning that Americans face a high risk of arrest and extended detention. In fact, standard U.S. passports aren’t even valid for travel there unless specially approved.

Iran is flagged for its history of detaining U.S. nationals, including dual citizens, on serious charges like espionage. Authorities there have been known to make arbitrary arrests, and terrorism and civil unrest are ongoing threats.

Haiti remains volatile, with rampant crime, civil unrest, and limited access to medical care. Kidnappings have become a major issue, with locals and foreigners alike being targeted.

Mexico, while not on the Level 4 list as a whole, has several states that fall under partial advisories due to violence. These include Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. Travelers are cautioned about widespread homicides, kidnappings, and armed robbery.

With summer travel in full swing, U.S. citizens are being urged to check the latest advisories before booking any trips abroad. When safety is on the line, it’s better to double-check than to end up in a dangerous situation.