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New Canada Travel Advisory For India Effective May 7

May 8, 2025
5:18 pm

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Last Updated On 7 May 2025, 2:07 PM EDT (Toronto Time)

On May 7, 2025, the Government of Canada issued an urgent travel advisory for India, citing heightened safety and security risks following recent military actions and escalating regional tensions.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the advice, offering critical insights for Canadian travellers, expatriates, and anyone planning a trip or who is already in India.

From understanding risk levels to navigating air travel disruptions and accessing consular services, here’s everything you need to stay informed and safe.

The Canadian government’s travel advisory responds to a rapidly evolving situation in India triggered by military activities.

On May 7, the Indian military conducted air strikes targeting multiple sites in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab Province, resulting in casualties.

Reports also indicate artillery fire across the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border between India and Pakistan.

These developments have heightened tensions, raising concerns about potential escalation and disruptions.

The advisory emphasizes the need for vigilance, as the situation could deteriorate quickly.

Canadian travellers are urged to monitor local and international media, follow local authorities’ instructions, and be prepared to shelter in place if necessary.

With air travel disruptions already reported and the possibility of airspace closures, understanding the advisory’s details is crucial for safe travel planning.

Military Actions and Regional Tensions

The air strikes on May 7, 2025, mark a significant escalation in India-Pakistan relations, particularly in the contested region of Kashmir.

The artillery exchanges across the LoC further underscore the volatility of the situation.

According to the advisory, these events could lead to:

Increased Tensions: The risk of further military actions or retaliatory measures remains high, potentially affecting border areas and beyond.
Rapid Deterioration: The situation could change abruptly, impacting travel safety and access to essential services.
Civil Defence Measures: Indian authorities reportedly conducted civil defence mock drills on May 7.

Travellers in or near affected areas, particularly in northern India, should stay alert and comply with local directives, such as evacuation orders or air-raid warnings.

The advisory highlights potential disruptions to air travel due to the ongoing security situation.

While specific details on affected routes or airports are not provided, the possibility of airspace closures or flight diversions is a concern.

Travelers should:

Contact Airlines: Check with your airline for real-time updates on flight statuses and potential cancellations.
Plan for Delays: Allow extra time for travel and be prepared for last-minute changes to itineraries.
Monitor Travel Advisories: Regularly review updates from the Government of Canada and international aviation authorities.

Indian authorities may implement additional security measures, such as:

Increased Security Checks: Expect heightened police and military presence, especially in urban centers and border regions.
Curfews or Movement Restrictions: Local governments may impose curfews or restrict movement in response to security threats.
Public Safety Drills: Civil defence exercises could disrupt normal operations, including transportation and communication networks.

Travellers should follow local media and official announcements to stay informed about these measures and their impact on travel plans.

The Canadian travel advisory outlines specific risk levels for India, categorizing the country and its regions based on safety and security concerns.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

The Government of Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution throughout India due to the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks.

Key precautions include:

Stay Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, tourist sites, and public transportation hubs.
Monitor Local Media: Stay updated on security developments through reliable news sources.
Follow Local Instructions: Adhere to directives from Indian authorities, including security alerts and evacuation orders.

The advisory explicitly warns against all travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (excluding Ladakh) due to an unpredictable security situation.

The region faces significant risks, including:

Terrorism and Militancy: Recent incidents, such as the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, highlight the ongoing threat of violence.
Civil Unrest: Protests and demonstrations can escalate quickly, leading to clashes with security forces.
Kidnapping: There is a risk of abductions, particularly for foreigners.

The advisory excludes travel to or within the Union Territory of Ladakh, which is considered safer.

However, travellers should still exercise caution and verify local conditions before visiting Ladakh.

Travellers are advised to avoid all travel within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border in the following states:

Gujarat
Punjab
Rajasthan

The border areas are deemed high-risk due to:

Unpredictable Security Situation: Ongoing military tensions and cross-border skirmishes increase the likelihood of violence.
Landmines and Unexploded Ordnance: These pose a significant danger to travellers, particularly in remote areas.

The Attari-Wagah border crossing, a popular tourist attraction, is currently closed, further limiting cross-border travel options.

The advisory notes that in-person consular services are temporarily unavailable in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Mumbai, and surrounding areas due to previous diplomatic rift between Canada and India.

So for consular assistance, Canadians should:

Contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi: The High Commission remains operational and can provide support for urgent matters.
Reach Out to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa: This 24/7 service is available for Canadians in need of emergency assistance as listed below:

For Canadian citizens requiring urgent consular assistance, the following contact options are available:

Email: [email protected]
Telephone:
- From outside Canada: +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available)
- From inside Canada (non-passport-related): 613-996-8885 or 1-800-387-3124 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada)
- Emergency passport services within Canada (weekends and holidays): 1-800-567-6868 (toll-free from Canada)
SMS: +1-613-686-3658 (carrier charges may apply)
WhatsApp: +1-613-909-8881 (carrier charges may apply)
Signal: +1-613-909-8087 (note: technical difficulties may affect this service)
TTY (for persons with hearing loss): 613-944-1310 or 1-800-394-3472 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada)

The ROCA service, which allows Canadians to register their travel plans and receive emergency updates, is currently unavailable.

Travellers are advised to check the Government of Canada’s travel advice website for updates on when this service will resume.

The new Canada travel advisory for India, effective May 7, 2025, highlights critical safety and security risks that Canadian travellers must consider.

From military actions and regional tensions to air travel disruptions and limited consular services, the advisory provides essential guidance for navigating a complex travel environment.

By staying informed, following local instructions, and taking proactive safety measures, you can reduce risks and make informed decisions about your travel plans.

Whether you’re a tourist, expatriate, or business traveller, prioritize your safety by adhering to the advisory’s recommendations.

Check for updates regularly, contact your airline for travel arrangements, and reach out to the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa if you need assistance.

With careful planning and vigilance, you can navigate the challenges of traveling to India during this period of heightened alert.

For more information, visit travel.gc.ca or contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre at [email protected].

Purnima Mann

Purnima Mann, a news writer passionate about delivering insightful and well-researched articles. From current affairs to finance and culture , I aim to inform, engage, and spark meaningful discussions. Stay informed and explore new perspectives with me.