Canada Urges Citizens to Leave Iran Amid Escalating Security Risks | Quick Digest

Canada Urges Citizens to Leave Iran Amid Escalating Security Risks | Quick Digest
Canada has issued an urgent travel advisory for Iran, advising its citizens to avoid all travel and to leave the country immediately if safe. The warning cites escalating security risks, ongoing protests, regional tensions, and a high risk of arbitrary detention for foreign nationals.

Canada issued 'Avoid All Travel' advisory for Iran on January 13, 2026.

Canadians in Iran are urged to leave immediately due to security risks.

Advisory highlights risks of arbitrary detention and unpredictable laws.

Many airlines have suspended flights; overland routes to Armenia and Turkey are options.

Consular services in Iran for Canadians are extremely limited.

Canada has significantly updated its travel advisory for Iran on January 13, 2026, urging all its citizens to "Avoid all travel" to the country and advising those already present to "leave Iran now if you can do so safely". This emergency warning from Global Affairs Canada comes amidst a rapidly deteriorating security situation, characterized by ongoing nationwide demonstrations, heightened regional tensions, and the unpredictable enforcement of local laws. The advisory explicitly highlights a high risk of arbitrary detention, particularly for foreign and dual nationals, noting that Iranian authorities have previously arrested individuals to exert political or diplomatic pressure on other governments. The Canadian government's ability to provide consular services in Iran is severely limited, as Canada does not have an embassy or consulate in the country. Furthermore, the advisory flags significant flight risks, stating that many airlines have suspended flights to and from Iran, which could leave travelers stranded. However, it confirms that overland crossing options to Armenia and Turkey remain available, and Canadian passport holders do not require visas for these countries. Canadians are strongly advised to monitor local and international media, follow instructions from local authorities, and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service for updates. Other nations, including France and Germany, have issued similar urgent warnings for their citizens in Iran. The situation is described as volatile, with potential for escalation with little warning.
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