Some countries are warning their citizens about visiting the U.S. for surprising reasons.
It’s not something Americans hear every day, but several countries around the world are actively warning their citizens about traveling to the United States. These aren’t vague warnings either—they’re specific, often detailed advisories pointing out concerns that many Americans may not even think twice about. Rising gun violence, unpredictable political protests, and inadequate healthcare access for foreigners are just a few of the issues getting international attention. If you’re used to life in the U.S., it’s easy to overlook how foreign visitors might see the country through a much more cautious lens.
When governments issue official travel warnings, they do so to protect their citizens from potential harm abroad. That makes these advisories a big deal. Some countries are telling people to exercise extreme caution, avoid certain cities altogether, or even reconsider traveling to the U.S. unless absolutely necessary. It’s a sobering reality check that the U.S., for all its reputation as a tourist destination, might not seem all that safe to outsiders. Here are ten countries that have raised the alarm—and why they’re urging caution for anyone considering a trip to the United States.
1. Canada cites gun violence and mass shootings.
Canada’s travel advisory for the United States points to the frequency of mass shootings as a major concern. Canadian officials remind their citizens that gun violence happens regularly across the U.S. and that it’s often random and unpredictable, as stated by authors at Prevention Institute.
They recommend researching local laws, staying informed about incidents in specific areas, and being vigilant in public spaces—especially in large cities or during events with big crowds. This type of warning is uncommon for travel between two neighboring and friendly nations, but the increase in high-profile incidents has prompted Canadian officials to be more vocal.
The advisory also emphasizes that American gun laws vary by state and can be drastically different from Canadian norms. For instance, the open carry of firearms in public is legal in some areas, which may be jarring or unsettling for Canadian visitors.
Even more alarming is the reality that active shooter drills are a routine part of life in many schools and businesses, a fact that reinforces the seriousness of these warnings. Canada hasn’t said not to visit, but the tone is cautious enough to give travelers pause.
2. New Zealand flags risks tied to racial tensions.
New Zealand’s government has expressed concerns about racial tensions and the potential for civil unrest in the U.S. Their official advisory encourages travelers to avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings, which they describe as potentially volatile.
The advisory came after a series of racially charged incidents in the U.S. sparked widespread protests, some of which escalated into violence. New Zealanders are also urged to stay up to date on news developments and avoid being caught in situations where emotions may flare.
The concern extends beyond protests to systemic issues that visitors may encounter. New Zealand points out that racial profiling can affect people of color, including tourists, in certain parts of the U.S, Laura Silver of Pew Research Center reported. This has made some travelers think twice about visiting specific cities or regions. The advisory encourages people to be mindful of their surroundings and to understand that the cultural climate may feel tense or even hostile depending on where they are. It’s a nuanced message—but one that signals real concern.
3. Germany warns about healthcare costs and crime.
Germany has issued a fairly detailed advisory that brings up the high cost of emergency medical care in the U.S. Even with travel insurance, Germans are told to be cautious, since a simple hospital visit can turn into a five-figure bill. That kind of financial risk isn’t something many travelers expect, especially when visiting a developed country. The advisory makes it clear that falling ill or being injured in the U.S. could become an expensive nightmare without proper coverage.
Germany also includes standard warnings about crime—especially in urban areas with higher rates of theft, car break-ins, or violent incidents, according to authors at Smart Traveller. The advisory doesn’t single out any one location, but encourages travelers to exercise general vigilance, especially after dark or in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Germans are accustomed to a relatively low-crime environment at home, so this warning marks a notable contrast and serves as a wake-up call for those assuming American cities are just like any others in the West.
4. Australia urges travelers to prepare for gun culture.
Australia’s advisory stands out for its directness when it comes to firearms. Australian officials plainly state that gun crime is a reality of life in the U.S., and that mass shootings can happen in places like schools, malls, and nightclubs. They tell travelers to be aware of their surroundings and to have an escape plan in case violence breaks out. It’s an unsettling suggestion, but it reflects the kind of vigilance that officials believe is necessary for their citizens.
This is especially relevant considering Australia’s own strict gun laws. The average Australian isn’t used to seeing civilians openly carry weapons, and the idea of widespread gun ownership can feel intimidating. The advisory doesn’t go as far as to say “don’t visit,” but it does highlight a fundamental cultural difference that could make some travelers uncomfortable. For Australians, the United States is now seen as a place where violence might erupt with little warning, even in everyday settings.
5. United Kingdom highlights political unrest and protests.
The U.K. has advised its citizens to be cautious about political protests and demonstrations, particularly in major cities. Their travel guidance suggests that political tensions in the U.S. can erupt into street confrontations, with clashes between protesters and police or rival groups. British officials stress that these events are often unpredictable and can escalate quickly. Tourists could easily find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time, so staying aware and avoiding large gatherings is strongly recommended.
They also mention the general threat of terrorism, though it’s not the main focus. What stands out most is the acknowledgment of division and unrest as defining aspects of the current American climate. These warnings may not deter all travelers, but they do paint a picture of a nation that feels a little on edge. British citizens are reminded that freedom of speech in the U.S. includes a wide spectrum of expression, some of which can be intense or aggressive in tone. That cultural difference alone can be jarring.
6. Venezuela tells citizens to avoid the U.S. altogether.
Venezuela has taken a more extreme approach by outright advising against all travel to the United States. Their advisory focuses heavily on gun violence, racial discrimination, and what they describe as hate crimes and aggressive policing. While this warning may partly reflect the political friction between the two nations, it’s still a stark contrast to the more cautious tone used by most Western countries. Venezuela’s government claims the U.S. is unsafe for its citizens, period.
It’s worth noting that not all Venezuelans agree with this assessment—especially those with family in the U.S. or plans to seek asylum. But the official stance remains firm, describing the United States as a high-risk destination where travelers may face violence or harassment. While some may see this as propaganda, others view it as part of a larger trend: countries that once saw the U.S. as the ultimate dream destination now warning people to think twice.
7. Uruguay echoes safety concerns for tourists.
Uruguay has issued warnings about crime in major U.S. cities, calling out places like Detroit, Baltimore, and Albuquerque for having elevated rates of violence. Their advisory singles out gun-related incidents, noting that even tourists who stay in busy, central areas could be at risk. Uruguay advises travelers to remain in well-lit, populated areas and to avoid walking alone at night. It’s the kind of advice you might hear for visiting a developing country—but now it’s being given for the U.S.
Uruguayan officials also express concern about the uneven application of justice and what they perceive as arbitrary policing. They encourage travelers to remain calm during any interaction with law enforcement and to avoid confrontation. For a small country that traditionally has close cultural and diplomatic ties with the U.S., this shift in tone reflects a growing unease that American cities may not be as safe or welcoming as they once were perceived to be.
8. France emphasizes emergency preparedness.
France’s advisory covers a range of concerns, from mass shootings to extreme weather events. French officials highlight the importance of knowing emergency exits and following local authorities’ instructions during a crisis.
They even suggest downloading local safety apps or enrolling in government alert systems while in the U.S. This level of preparedness advice is typically reserved for high-risk destinations—yet it’s now being applied to one of the world’s most popular travel spots.
France also advises caution around demonstrations and major political events, echoing similar concerns raised by other countries. What’s unique about the French warning is how much it focuses on being ready for anything. It’s not just crime—they want their citizens to consider things like wildfires, hurricanes, and even infrastructure failures that could disrupt their plans. That paints a picture of a place with lots of potential chaos lurking behind the surface-level glamour.
9. Japan urges travelers to be aware of local laws.
Japan’s travel advisory is less about avoiding the U.S. altogether and more about understanding its complex legal landscape. Japanese citizens are warned that rules around drugs, alcohol, and even public behavior can be surprisingly strict or inconsistent depending on the state.
This is especially important because breaking the law, even unknowingly, can result in fines or jail time. The advisory encourages travelers to read up on local regulations before they arrive.
Another point of concern is the availability of firearms and how commonplace they are compared to Japan. Gun deaths are rare in Japan, so the idea that anyone might be armed is alarming for many Japanese travelers. The government also reminds citizens that the U.S. can be expensive and that unexpected medical costs are a major risk. Overall, the tone is cautious but respectful—a reminder that the U.S. is both a rewarding and risky destination.
10. China cites frequent shootings and discrimination.
China has issued travel warnings that mirror many concerns raised by other countries, particularly the prevalence of gun violence. Chinese officials describe the U.S. as a country with frequent shootings and a complicated racial climate. Their warning includes a reminder for travelers to steer clear of protests or any public gatherings that might turn confrontational. The advisory also touches on the treatment of Asian individuals, noting that incidents of discrimination have been reported in various cities.
China’s government encourages travelers to stay connected with their local consulate and to report any problems immediately. They also recommend that travelers maintain a low profile and avoid drawing attention to themselves.
This isn’t just standard safety advice—it reflects a perception that certain people may be more vulnerable to hostility or misunderstanding in the U.S. The warning might not dissuade all tourists, but it adds to the growing chorus of international voices expressing concern about travel to America.