Egypt joins Hungary, Mexico, Germany, Brazil, Ireland and more on the UK’s latest travel advisory list after the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its guidance in response to rising regional security concerns, changing visa regulations and increased border restrictions. The revised advisory highlights that 2025 is shaping into a more cautious year for international travellers, as political instability, terrorism risks, organised crime and tightened immigration checks affect several key tourism markets. The UK government has urged British nationals to plan trips with greater awareness, secure comprehensive travel insurance and stay informed about visa requirements and safety conditions before travelling.

The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has released a fresh series of travel advisories affecting several popular international destinations. Egypt, Hungary, Mexico, Germany, Brazil and Ireland have all been included in the latest update, warning British nationals to stay alert, review visa requirements and exercise caution amid a changing global travel environment marked by heightened border checks and stricter entry rules. The move aims to ensure travellers remain informed about potential risks, ranging from terrorism and political unrest to crime and regional instability.

In its latest update, the FCDO reminds British citizens that no destination is entirely risk-free. The new advisories highlight the importance of comprehensive travel insurance, awareness of local laws, and careful route planning, particularly when visiting countries facing security challenges. Travellers are also being encouraged to double-check visa rules and health coverage before departure, as changing entry policies and security situations continue to shape international travel in 2025.

Egypt: Restricted Zones and Security Concerns

Egypt tops the FCDO’s new warning list, with the advisory strongly urging travellers to avoid or restrict visits to several regions. The FCDO advises against all travel within 20 kilometres of the Egypt–Libya border, except for the small town of El Salloum, where only essential travel is permitted. The entire North Sinai Governorate has been declared off-limits due to ongoing security operations, while the northern part of the South Sinai Governorate remains accessible only for essential travel beyond the St Catherine–Nuweibaa road.

In the Western Desert, the FCDO limits non-essential travel except for key cultural destinations such as Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings. The oasis towns of Siwa, Bahariya, Farafra, Dakhla and Kharga remain open but should be approached with caution. Authorities also warn that borders with Gaza and Israel may close at short notice, and travellers should verify crossing procedures and local advisories before planning overland journeys. British visitors are urged to ensure their travel insurance includes medical evacuation and emergency assistance, while those requiring help in Egypt can contact the British Embassy in Cairo for support.

Germany: Persistent Terror Threat and Caution in Public Spaces

Germany continues to attract millions of visitors each year, yet the FCDO describes the current risk of terrorism as very likely. Authorities warn that public places such as restaurants, markets, shopping centres, synagogues and major cultural events could be potential targets. In recent years, Germany has experienced several violent incidents, including knife attacks and shootings in cities such as Solingen, Dresden and Hanau.

Travellers are urged to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas, and to follow the guidance of local police. While overall crime levels remain similar to the UK, pickpocketing and petty theft are common in airports and train stations. The FCDO also warns against using unofficial currency exchanges to avoid counterfeit notes. Visitors are encouraged to carry valid identification, though it is not legally required, as police may ask to verify documents in certain cases. Ensuring travel insurance covers theft and delays is strongly recommended before departure.

Hungary: Political Demonstrations and Tourist Scams

Hungary remains a popular Central European destination, but the FCDO has advised tourists to stay alert amid political demonstrations and petty crimes. Peaceful protests, particularly on national holidays such as 15 March and 23 October, have occasionally turned violent in the past. Travellers are encouraged to avoid large gatherings, monitor local news and stay aware of their surroundings.

Street crime and scams targeting visitors, especially in Budapest, continue to be an issue. Pickpockets often operate on public transport and near tourist hotspots. The FCDO has reported instances where bars and clubs have charged inflated prices and coerced tourists into paying large sums. Taxi drivers are sometimes involved in such schemes, directing passengers to certain establishments in exchange for commissions. Travellers are urged to use only registered taxis or ride-hailing apps, check menu prices before ordering, and avoid establishments that do not clearly display prices. Passports should remain valid for at least six months, and UK nationals are reminded that visa-free entry continues for short visits under current UK–EU arrangements.

Ireland: Low Crime but Heightened Vigilance

The FCDO’s advisory for Ireland remains largely precautionary, with warnings that, although rare, terrorist incidents cannot be ruled out. Demonstrations in cities such as Dublin and Cork can occur with little notice, potentially disrupting public transport. Travellers are encouraged to follow police instructions and stay away from protest sites.

While Ireland is considered one of the safest destinations in Europe, petty theft such as bag-snatching and car break-ins occasionally occur in urban areas. Tourists are advised to avoid carrying large sums of cash, keep valuables secure and park in well-lit, monitored areas. Ireland enforces strict drug laws, with severe penalties even for small quantities of cannabis. The FCDO warns travellers not to carry items for strangers through airports, as advanced screening technology can detect prohibited substances and result in long prison sentences.

Mexico: Regional Instability and Organised Crime

The FCDO has extended its “all but essential travel” warning to several states in Mexico, citing risks of violence, organised crime and kidnappings. The states of Baja California, Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Colima, Guerrero and Chiapas are considered particularly volatile. However, certain tourist corridors and major highways remain open for essential travel, including the cities of Chihuahua, Mazatlán, Los Mochis and Manzanillo, as well as the popular Copper Canyon railway route.

Travellers are urged to use toll highways during daylight hours, avoid remote rural routes, and exercise caution when using taxis or public transport. Night travel should be avoided whenever possible. Despite the security concerns, Mexico continues to attract visitors to its major resorts and cultural sites, but British travellers are encouraged to carry proof of return tickets, hotel bookings and sufficient funds at all times. A visa is not required for stays up to 180 days, but comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is essential given the long distances between medical facilities in some areas.

Brazil: Urban Crime and Protest Risks

Brazil has also been included in the latest FCDO advisory due to ongoing security challenges and civil unrest. The government advises against non-essential travel in parts of Amazonas State, particularly in areas along the Amazon River and its tributaries, due to risks posed by illegal mining activities and criminal networks. The situation in urban centres such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasília also remains sensitive, with frequent demonstrations that can turn violent.

Travellers are advised to avoid all favelas, including those promoted as tourist attractions, due to unpredictable violence. Robberies and thefts are common in crowded areas, particularly on buses and beaches. The FCDO warns that criminals often target mobile phones, especially in the late afternoon and evening. Tourists are urged not to resist in the event of an attack, to avoid carrying large sums of money, and to keep jewellery and valuables out of sight.

Terror threats, though rare, cannot be dismissed. The twin explosions in Brasília in November 2024 have heightened security concerns across major cities. Visitors should monitor local news and follow government instructions in the event of demonstrations or protests. UK citizens visiting Brazil for tourism do not require a visa for stays under 90 days but must present proof of onward travel and sufficient financial means. Comprehensive insurance that includes theft and emergency medical cover remains mandatory for safe travel.

Broader Travel and Visa Guidance

Across all destinations, the FCDO reminds travellers that situations can change quickly. Border closures, security alerts and political shifts can occur without warning, impacting itineraries and visa processing times. British nationals are advised to register for travel alerts, monitor embassy updates and carry emergency contact information for local consulates.

Before departure, travellers should ensure that their passports are valid for the full duration of their stay and that visa requirements are confirmed directly with the embassy of their destination country. The FCDO also urges all travellers to purchase insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage and natural disasters.

The advisory also highlights the importance of respecting local customs and laws. Travellers should review FCDO guidance for women, LGBT+ travellers and those with disabilities to ensure an inclusive and informed experience abroad.

The latest FCDO travel advisories are not designed to discourage tourism but to equip travellers with the information they need to stay safe. While millions of British citizens visit these countries each year without incident, the reminders serve as a timely warning that awareness and preparation are crucial.

Egypt joins Hungary, Mexico, Germany, Brazil, Ireland, and more on the UK’s latest travel advisory list due to escalating security risks, political unrest, and tighter visa regulations across these regions. The updated guidance urges British travellers to exercise caution and ensure proper documentation and insurance before visiting these destinations.

Understanding visa regulations, staying alert to local developments and keeping emergency plans ready can make a significant difference in how smoothly a trip unfolds. From the deserts of Egypt and the markets of Budapest to the beaches of Rio and the streets of Dublin, the FCDO’s message remains the same — informed travel is safe travel, and caution is the best passport to peace of mind in an unpredictable world.