U.S. Updates ‘Do Not Travel’ List: Countries to Avoid as of May 16, 2025

As global tensions continue to evolve, the U.S. Department of State has issued an updated list of Level 4: Do Not Travel advisories for several countries around the world. These alerts are the government’s most serious travel warnings, signaling extreme safety and security risks for American citizens abroad.

What Does “Do Not Travel” Mean?

The Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory is the highest travel warning issued by the U.S. Department of State. It is reserved for countries facing severe risks such as armed conflict, terrorism, civil unrest, wrongful detentions, or other dangerous conditions. When a destination receives this designation, U.S. citizens are strongly urged to avoid traveling there under any circumstances.

These advisories are not issued lightly. They reflect detailed assessments from intelligence, diplomatic, and security experts to protect the welfare of American travelers.

Countries on the Updated “Do Not Travel” List – May 16, 2025

As of today’s update, the following countries remain or have been newly added to the Level 4 list. Travelers are advised to reconsider any existing plans and avoid visiting these destinations:

• Afghanistan – Due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and limited U.S. Embassy presence.

• Russia – Due to the ongoing conflict, political instability, and the risk of arbitrary detention.

• Iran – Due to the risk of wrongful detentions and civil unrest targeting U.S. nationals.

• North Korea – Due to strict travel restrictions, wrongful detentions, and the absence of diplomatic support.

• Haiti – Due to high levels of violent crime, civil unrest, and poor infrastructure.

• Yemen – Ongoing armed conflict and humanitarian crisis.

• Syria – Due to terrorism, civil war, and limited consular access.

To view the full list of affected countries, visit the official U.S. State Department Travel Advisories page.

What Travelers Should Do Now

If you were considering travel to one of these destinations, it’s important to take immediate action:

• Cancel or postpone any non-essential trips to countries listed under Level 4.

• If you are currently in one of these regions, make plans to leave as soon as it is safe and feasible.

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) via step.state.gov to receive real-time safety updates and make it easier for U.S. embassies to assist you in emergencies.

Travel Smart, Stay Informed

Even if your travel plans do not include any Level 4 countries, global conditions can change rapidly. We recommend checking the travel advisory level for your destination at least a week before your trip and again just before departure. You can find all official advisories and updates at travel.state.gov.

Final Thoughts from The Jetset Journal

While the world offers endless beauty and adventure, some destinations pose too great a risk at this time. At The Jetset Journal, we believe in exploring responsibly and safely. Always check official government guidance before booking your next getaway, and remember: smart travel is safe travel.

Stay safe, stay informed, and keep exploring—when and where it’s safe to do so.