10 Countries That Will Probably Arrest You for Visiting Them

Eritrea

Eritrea is one of Africa’s least-visited countries.

Foreign travelers face significant restrictions on movement outside the capital, Asmara. Some foreign nationals have also been detained without clear charges. Photography near government or military locations can pose serious problems, so visitors need to carefully understand local restrictions.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is one of the world’s most isolated countries.

Visitors normally need visas and must follow strict entry requirements. Authorities closely control many aspects of daily life, and photography around government buildings or sensitive locations can attract unwanted attention. Travelers should always follow official instructions.

Myanmar

Myanmar has experienced major political instability and armed conflict since the military takeover in 2021.

Foreign visitors may encounter checkpoints and restrictions, while local laws can be enforced unpredictably. Travelers should avoid political demonstrations and never photograph military installations or security operations.

Syria

Years of conflict have made Syria an extremely high-risk destination.

Foreign governments warn against travel because of armed violence, terrorism, kidnapping, and limited consular assistance. Checkpoints and security controls are common, and travelers may be questioned by various authorities.

Venezuela

Venezuela has historically presented serious security challenges for international travelers.

Although conditions and official travel warnings can change, visitors may encounter extensive questioning at checkpoints or airports. Crime and kidnapping are also concerns in some regions, making careful preparation essential before traveling.

Belarus

Belarus has strict security laws and extensive government surveillance.

Foreign visitors should avoid demonstrations and political activities. Authorities can enforce laws in ways unfamiliar to tourists, and foreign governments warn that detained citizens may have very limited access to consular assistance.

Afghanistan

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s most difficult destinations for foreign travelers.

Visitors face risks from terrorism, kidnapping, armed violence, and wrongful detention. Foreigners may attract significant attention from authorities, and many governments strongly advise their citizens not to travel there.

Russia

Russia has strict laws covering political activity, military information, demonstrations, and other sensitive subjects.

Foreign nationals have been detained, and the risk may be higher for citizens of countries with tense relations with Russia. Travelers should understand that actions considered normal elsewhere may create serious legal problems.

Iran

Iran has extraordinary historical sites and a rich culture, but some foreign nationals face a serious risk of detention.

Authorities have detained tourists, journalists, academics, and dual nationals on national-security-related accusations. Photography of sensitive locations or involvement in political activity can have severe consequences.

North Korea

North Korea ranks number one because visitors are subject to exceptionally strict government controls.

Independent travel is heavily restricted, and activities that might seem minor elsewhere can result in serious punishment. The U.S. government specifically warns of a continuing risk of arrest, long-term detention, and wrongful detention for its citizens.