- By Shivangi Sharma
- Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:03 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The United States has issued a Level 4 – Do Not Travel advisory for 21 countries, citing significant risks such as crime, political instability, armed conflict, and the potential for detention or kidnapping. The advisory, issued by the US Department of State, warns Americans against traveling to these high-risk destinations, emphasising that local conditions and the government’s limited ability to assist travellers make these regions extremely dangerous.
We issue Travel Advisories with Levels 1 – 4. Level 4 means Do Not Travel. This level is assigned based on local conditions and/or our limited ability to help there. These places are dangerous and you may be putting yourself at extreme risk by visiting.
— Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) April 3, 2025
The Travel Advisories for… pic.twitter.com/SXmsXCqoR8
Full List of Level 4 – Do Not Travel Countries:
The US also emphasised the importance of being informed before traveling and included the following advice in the advisory.
1. Check Travel Laws and Customs
Before departing, travelers should familiarise themselves with their destination’s laws and customs. Some countries enforce strict regulations on drugs, weapons, and even social media activity. Violating these rules—intentionally or not—can result in severe consequences. Travellers can visit travel.state.gov/destination for detailed information on travel restrictions.
2. Avoid High-Risk Areas
A Level 4 Travel Advisory means Americans are strongly advised not to visit the specified countries due to serious threats. These warnings are based on multiple factors, including violent crime, ongoing armed conflicts, government instability, and a lack of consular support in emergencies.
3. Save Embassy Contact Information
Before traveling, Americans should note the contact details of the nearest US embassy or consulate at their destination. In case of an emergency, such as loss of a passport or injury, embassies provide essential services. US embassies and consulates operate 24/7 and can be contacted via https://www.usembassy.gov/.
India Listed Under Level 2 Advisory
While India is not classified under Level 4, it falls under Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution, due to concerns over crime and terrorism. The advisory specifically warns against traveling to areas near the India-Pakistan border and the Line of Control (LoC), citing risks of terrorism and potential military conflict.
Pakistan’s High-Risk Zones
The advisory also categorises certain regions of Pakistan under Level 4, urging Americans to avoid travel to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where ongoing conflict poses severe threats to safety.
The US government also urged its citizens to assess risks carefully before making travel plans, particularly to countries under Level 4 advisories. While global travel can be enriching, staying informed about safety warnings can mean the difference between a smooth trip and a life-threatening situation.