Canada Issues US Travel Warning

Map of Los Angeles on a smartphone screen

Canada has issued an unprecedented travel warning for Los Angeles as anti-Trump protesters continue to clash with police, forcing authorities to implement a nightly curfew in what was once considered a premier tourist destination.

Key Takeaways

  • The Canadian government has upgraded its travel advisory for Los Angeles, warning citizens to exercise increased caution due to ongoing anti-Trump demonstrations
  • Authorities in Los Angeles have implemented an 8 PM to 6 AM curfew to maintain order following protests that began in June 2025
  • Canadian travelers are specifically advised to avoid protest areas, monitor local media, and strictly follow all instructions from local authorities
  • The advisory also highlights additional safety concerns including petty theft, credit card fraud, and the high rate of firearm possession in the United States

Unprecedented Travel Warning

In a significant shift from its usual “take normal precautions” stance, the Canadian government has formally advised its citizens to exercise heightened vigilance when traveling to the United States, with particular emphasis on Los Angeles. The warning comes in response to prolonged demonstrations against President Trump that began in early June 2025 and have since required extraordinary security measures including a citywide curfew. This advisory represents a rare acknowledgment from a foreign government about the deteriorating safety situation in one of America’s major cities, reflecting growing international concern about political unrest in the United States.

Protest Details and Safety Measures

According to the official Canadian government travel advisory, large-scale demonstrations in Los Angeles have become increasingly volatile, prompting local authorities to implement a mandatory curfew from 8 PM to 6 AM. Canadian travelers are explicitly instructed to monitor local media for updates on the situation, completely avoid areas where protests are occurring, and strictly adhere to all directives from law enforcement, including curfew orders. The advisory emphasizes that protest sites can quickly become dangerous, with potential for violence between demonstrators and police, property damage, and increased criminal activity in the surrounding areas.

Additional Safety Concerns

Beyond the immediate threat posed by political demonstrations, the Canadian government has highlighted several other safety issues for citizens traveling throughout the United States. Petty crime remains prevalent in tourist-heavy areas, with pickpocketing and theft being common occurrences in major cities. The advisory specifically notes that violent crime tends to be concentrated in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, though tourists should remain vigilant regardless of location. Credit card and ATM fraud are also identified as significant concerns, with travelers advised to take precautions when using payment cards at unfamiliar locations.

Firearm Risks and Border Issues

The travel advisory makes specific mention of America’s high rate of firearm possession, noting that while mass shootings do occur throughout the country, tourists are rarely involved in such incidents. Nevertheless, the prevalence of guns contributes to an overall security environment that differs significantly from what Canadian travelers might experience at home. Additionally, the advisory warns about increased criminal activity related to drug trafficking along the U.S.-Mexico border, advising travelers to exercise particular caution in those regions.

Entry Requirements and Legal Considerations

Canadian authorities remind travelers that entry and exit requirements for the United States are strictly enforced, with various documents required depending on whether arrival is by air, land, or water. While Canadian citizens generally do not require visas for stays up to six months, exceptions exist for certain categories of travelers. The advisory also emphasizes that previous cannabis use or involvement in the cannabis industry could result in being denied entry to the United States, despite legalization in Canada and some U.S. states. Travelers are reminded that U.S. laws vary by state and that proof of legal status may be requested at any time.