Canada urges citizens to leave Iran amid unrest

(Horizon Weekly) – In response to escalating demonstrations and mounting security risks in the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Government of Canada has issued an urgent update to its travel guidance for Canadian citizens, advising against all travel to Iran and urging Canadians currently in the country to depart if it can be done safely.

According to the latest Global Affairs Canada Travel Advice and Advisories, Iran is designated as a “Avoid all travel” destination due to ongoing nationwide demonstrations, heightened tensions, the risk of arbitrary detention, and unpredictable enforcement of local laws. The updated advisory, current as of January 13, 2026, states clearly that “You should leave Iran now if you can do so safely.” The travel notice also highlights that many airlines have suspended flights to and from Iran, though overland exit options remain available via open borders with Armenia and Türkiye. Canada’s capacity to provide consular assistance within Iran is extremely limited under the present conditions.

Canada’s updated travel advisory underscores the deteriorating security situation amidst widespread protests that began in late December 2025 and have since spread across major urban centres. Global Affairs Canada’s advisory describes significant disruptions to telecommunications services, including intermittent mobile internet access, and reports of confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.

In parallel, the Government of Canada has taken a firm diplomatic stance regarding the human rights situation in Iran. In a Joint Statement on the situation in Iran, Canadian officials strongly condemned the use of violence against demonstrators, arbitrary arrests, and intimidation tactics by Iranian security forces. The statement called on Iranian authorities to immediately end the use of excessive and lethal force against protestors.

Ottawa’s advisory updates and public condemnations reflect Canada’s ongoing concern for the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad, as well as its sustained advocacy for fundamental human rights in Iran. Canadians seeking assistance or considering departure should register with Global Affairs Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service and consult the latest travel advisory information at travel.gc.ca.