Thursday, May 29, 2025
Australia has updated its travel advisory to include Trinidad and Tobago alongside Colombia, Thailand, Jamaica, India, France, Mexico, the Philippines and more, citing changes to entry requirements, rising civil unrest, ongoing protests, and broader security concerns. The advisory urges travellers to stay alert, comply with evolving visa rules, and monitor local conditions due to heightened risks that could affect safety, mobility, and access to essential services across these destinations.
Australia has updated its official travel advisory, adding Trinidad and Tobago to a growing list of countries that now face heightened caution due to entry rule changes and evolving security risks. The advisory also includes destinations such as Colombia, Thailand, Jamaica, India, France, Mexico, and the Philippines. These updates reflect global conditions that affect travellers, including new visa procedures, political unrest, weather disruptions, and safety concerns.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) urges Australians to remain vigilant and well-prepared before travelling to these destinations. Travellers must now account for changing health protocols, updated border controls, protest activity, and infrastructure risks in their trip planning.
Trinidad and Tobago: New Visa Rules and Elevated Caution
Travellers must now obtain an e-visa at least 14 business days before arrival in Trinidad and Tobago. This change aims to streamline entry processes but adds new planning requirements. DFAT also highlights a high threat of violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, and home invasions. Travellers should remain alert, especially after dark, and avoid isolated areas or large gatherings without sufficient security measures.
Colombia: Protests, Drug Incidents, and High-Risk Zones
Colombia continues to attract tourists, but DFAT advises caution due to widespread demonstrations planned across major cities. Protests can quickly turn violent and often disrupt transportation. In addition, cases of robbery involving incapacitating drugs have increased, often linked to dating apps or social encounters.
The government has also declared a state of emergency in the Catatumbo region near the Venezuelan border. DFAT warns against travel to high-risk zones such as Cauca, Catatumbo, Buenaventura, Tumaco, and areas near international borders, where violence from armed groups is active.
Thailand: Digital Arrival Card and Earthquake Assessments
Thailand introduced a new rule requiring travellers to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within three days before arrival. The online form streamlines immigration but requires timely action. Additionally, authorities are assessing building safety across the country following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that impacted regional infrastructure.
DFAT also warns about terrorism risks in tourist areas, road safety hazards, and scams targeting foreigners. Travellers should avoid border regions with Myanmar and Malaysia and reconsider travel to southern provinces like Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani.
Jamaica: Tourist Safety and Transport Risks
Jamaica allows visa-free travel for Australians for up to six months, but DFAT urges a high degree of caution. Gang violence and armed robbery remain significant threats, especially in urban areas. Tourists should avoid walking alone, particularly at night or on beaches.
Transport safety is also a concern. DFAT advises using only registered taxis or trusted tour operators, as public transport and unofficial taxis are often unsafe. Food and drink spiking has led to cases of robbery and sexual assault, further justifying the elevated caution level.
India: Regional Restrictions and Natural Hazards
In India, DFAT continues to advise against all travel to Jammu and Kashmir, the India-Pakistan border area, and Manipur, where conflict and civil unrest persist. Although Ladakh is exempt, travellers should monitor the situation closely. Curfews and movement restrictions remain in force in some areas.
Extreme weather also poses a threat. Monsoon floods, dust storms, and heatwaves frequently disrupt transportation and power supplies. Travellers should check regional forecasts and stay in contact with their accommodation providers. Women are advised to take extra precautions when travelling alone due to a higher risk of harassment and assault in public spaces.
France: Heightened Security and Theft Risk
France remains under its highest national terrorist alert, prompting tight security at airports, shopping centres, religious sites, and tourist hubs. DFAT warns that public gatherings, festivals, and transport terminals could be targets for attacks.
The advisory also highlights a rise in theft and drink spiking, especially in Paris and other major cities. Tourists should safeguard belongings on public transport and avoid leaving food or drinks unattended. Demonstrations are frequent and can lead to police clashes, use of tear gas, and mass transit delays.
Mexico: Entry Procedure and Regional Instability
DFAT advises Australians to reconsider their need to travel to six Mexican states, including Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Sonora, Colima, and Chiapas. Drug cartel activity and road-related violence create an unpredictable environment, especially outside major cities.
Travellers must now complete the FMM (Multiple Immigration Form) online before arriving and secure a QR code for entry. Those with e-passport chips can use e-gates at select airports. To stay safe, DFAT recommends travelling by air where possible and using major toll roads only during daylight.
Philippines: Terrorism, Crime, and Typhoon Risks
In the Philippines, DFAT maintains a “do not travel” advisory for Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and the southern Sulu Sea due to terrorism and kidnapping threats. Metro Manila also faces challenges, with violent crime, armed robbery, and drink spiking reported in popular tourist areas.
Natural disasters—including typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and flooding—occur regularly. Travellers must stay informed via local alerts, ensure their accommodation has proper evacuation plans, and avoid travel during severe weather warnings.
Australia has issued a new travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, along with several other nations, due to updated entry requirements and growing security risks such as unrest, protests, and infrastructure threats affecting traveller safety.
Stay Prepared and Informed
Australia’s updated travel alerts reflect a more volatile and dynamic international environment. As entry protocols, local unrest, and natural hazards evolve, DFAT encourages Australians to:
- Monitor travel advisories on Smart Traveller
- Register their travel plans before departure
- Take out comprehensive travel insurance
- Follow local authority guidance at all times
With the right precautions and preparation, travellers can navigate these destinations more safely despite emerging global risks.
