Tensions and travel restrictions

The year 2026 has barely begun, but the world is already showing its tense and unpredictable side. Political conflicts, social unrest, new security risks, and short-term flight and travel restrictions characterize the international situation. Many regions are undergoing rapid change, and developments sometimes occur quickly, within a few hours.

For travelers, this means that the global situation is currently difficult to assess . Several countries have updated their travel warnings, airlines are responding with cancellations, and governments are constantly adjusting entry and security regulations.

🔴 1. Austrian travel warnings (as of 13.01.2026)

🇻🇪 Venezuela

• Following the US attack on Venezuelan territory, the Austrian Foreign Ministry has issued a level 4 travel warning ("Do not travel unless necessary").

• The security situation is extremely uncertain, diplomatic relations are severely strained, and travel connections are unstable.

🇮🇷 Iran

• Due to the ongoing protests against the mullah regime, the partial shutdown of the internet and international telephone connections , and the deteriorating security situation , a level 4 travel warning is also in effect for Iran.

• As a precautionary measure, Austrian Airlines has suspended all flights to Iran until at least January 21, 2026 .

🛂 2. Reactions from other countries and warnings

🇨🇦 Canada has also issued emergency travel warnings (Level 4) to countries such as Iran, Venezuela, Yemen and others – travelers should not travel and should be aware of active risks.

🇮🇳 India is urging its citizens to reconsider travel to Iran as unrest continues in several cities.

🎫 In addition, several countries (Great Britain, Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand) have jointly issued travel warnings for destinations such as Mexico, Ethiopia, Iraq, Algeria, Belarus and Venezuela .

🇺🇸 3. USA – Travel Policy and Geopolitical Tensions

🛂 Expanded entry restrictions Since January 1, 2026, there have been new, greatly expanded travel restrictions in the United States – citizens from around 39 countries are affected by entry bans or severe restrictions, including Venezuela and Iran.

📍 Furthermore, analysts warn that this new US policy and political tensions could have a lasting negative impact on confidence in travel to the US, which will also affect the number of tourists and the international perception of security.

🌍 Threats to Greenland: In the current geopolitical climate, the United States has repeatedly made threats against Greenland (part of the Kingdom of Denmark) . Political tensions, potential territorial interests, and rhetoric have led to discussions that may also affect travel and security advisories for potential transit or destination locations.

✈️ 4. Conflicts and travel interruptions

🌍 Yemen / Socotra

Over 400 travelers are stranded on the island of Socotra after a state of emergency was declared due to the escalating conflicts in Yemen; flights have been canceled and aid is limited.

🌎 Caribbean

There have been reports of unexpected cancellations and postponements of flights on Caribbean routes due to military interventions and the security situation in Venezuela, affecting flight connections.

❄️ 5. Weather and infrastructure: Europe in winter chaos

❄️ Heavy winter storms with snow, ice and temperatures below freezing have hit all of Europe, with airports partially closed, trains suspended and roads blocked , especially in France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, the UK and the Balkans.

🛂 6. Other important travel developments

📌 Changes in visa/entry regulations worldwide

• Oman, Malawi, Pakistan, Cape Verde and other countries are adjusting visa or residency rules – travelers should carefully check the current requirements.

📌 Passport problems: Ireland revokes thousands of passports due to printing errors - potential problems at border controls worldwide.

📌 Tourism regulations in popular destinations: Destinations like Bali are introducing new guest rules, and European cities like Venice or Amsterdam are tightening measures against overtourism.