The UK Foreign Office has issued an urgent appeal to British travellers, advising against all travel to 31 countries around the world due to a range of risks, including terrorism, natural disasters, and ongoing conflicts. The government warns that venturing into these areas could result in serious harm, imprisonment, or even death.
The updated “red list” from the Foreign Office highlights the dangers in these countries, urging holidaymakers to avoid travel altogether. The government has also cautioned that travelling to these regions may void any travel insurance policies, leaving travellers without assistance in case of emergencies.
The advice from the Foreign Office is clear: “Get advice and warnings about travel abroad, including entry requirements, safety and security, health risks, and legal differences,” to ensure the safety of British citizens.
Full List of Countries on the ‘Do Not Travel’ List:
Europe:
- Belarus: Do not travel
- Kosovo: All but essential travel warning for significant parts of the country
- Russia: Do not travel
- Ukraine: Do not travel
Middle East:
- Iraq: Do not travel and all but essential travel warning
- Iran: Do not travel
- Israel: Do not travel and all but essential travel warning
- Lebanon: Do not travel
- Occupied Palestinian Territories: Do not travel
- Syria: Do not travel
- Yemen: Do not travel
Africa: The UK government has issued warnings against travel to several African countries, including:
- Burkina Faso
- Cameroon
- Chad
- Central African Republic
- Ethiopia
- Libya
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Western Sahara: Significant parts
- Haiti: All but essential travel warning
South America:
- Venezuela: All but essential travel warning
Asia:
- Afghanistan: Do not travel
- Myanmar: Do not travel
- North Korea: All but essential travel warning
- Pakistan: Do not travel to certain parts of the country
These advisories reflect various concerns, from ongoing armed conflicts to severe health risks and unstable political situations. While these countries are considered high-risk, the Foreign Office warns that certain regions may still be dangerous even in countries not on the list, and travellers should check for specific restrictions or advisories.
‘Exit Ban’ Warnings
In addition to these travel advisories, the Foreign Office has also sounded the alarm on “exit bans” in certain countries, such as Vietnam. These bans can prevent travellers from leaving the country, often resulting in the seizure of passports and prolonged legal disputes. In such cases, travellers are urged to consult legal counsel and seek assistance from the nearest British embassy or consulate.
A government spokesperson said: “Vietnamese authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country. Your passport will be seized until the case is fully investigated.”
Travel Precautions
As international travel picks up again, British travellers are reminded to stay informed and cautious. The Foreign Office encourages all holidaymakers to review the latest travel advice and restrictions on their official website before making any travel plans.
Those who are planning trips abroad are strongly advised to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance and are aware of the risks involved. The government also warns that entering areas on the ‘do not travel’ list could leave travellers without consular support or legal recourse if something goes wrong.
For more detailed information and updates, visit the official UK Foreign Office website.
