We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria due to the threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest. Higher levels apply in some areas. We now advise do not travel to Kwara State, in addition to a number of other states in Nigeria. There's a high risk of terrorist attacks across Nigeria. Terrorist attacks may be more likely around religious holidays and other significant dates. Always be alert to threats, especially in public places. Avoid public demonstrations, rallies and gatherings. These can occur at short notice and may turn violent (see 'Safety'). Nigeria is enforcing stricter entry requirements in response to the Ebola disease outbreak. You'll need to complete a Health Declaration Form online. If you can't complete the form in advance of travel, you'll need to complete the form arrival. (see 'Travel'). We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria overall due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest. Higher levels apply in some areas.

We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to Eritrea. Higher levels apply in some areas. Due to the risk of potential conflict with neighbouring countries, additional security measures may be introduced at short notice in Asmara and across the country (see 'Safety'). There are limits to what consular assistance can be provided in high-risk locations. The Australian Embassy in Cairo provides consular services to Australians in Eritrea (see 'Contacts'). We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Eritrea overall due to the risk of potential conflict with neighbouring countries.  Higher levels apply in some areas.

You need a visa and a letter of invitation for Turkmenistan, even if you're only transiting. Get a visa before you arrive. Don't overstay your visa as there are penalties (see 'Travel'). Crossing the Turkmenistan land border requires a special authorisation from the Government of Turkmenistan. Borders can open and close at short notice. Entry and exit requirements can change without notice. Check the latest information with local authorities. Plan for possible delays at border crossings. Make sure you have all documentation, enough food, water and medication (see 'Travel'). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Turkmenistan overall due to the threat of crime. Higher levels apply in some areas.

We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to Cuba due to serious fuel shortages impacting essential services. Fuel shortages and frequent power outages are affecting transport and other services. Nation-wide power blackouts are occurring. Some airlines have reduced or cancelled flights. The situation could deteriorate quickly without warning and options to leave the country may reduce further. There's also a shortage of essential supplies, including food, medicines and drinking water. Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards will no longer be accepted in Cuba. You'll need to pay by cash or domestic prepaid cards. Bring sufficient cash for the duration of your trip (see 'Travel'). Demonstrations and protests against the government can occur. Some can turn violent, causing injuries and deaths. They may occur anywhere across the country. Avoid protests and demonstrations (see 'Safety'). We advise: Reconsider your need to travel to Cuba due to serious fuel shortages impacting essential services.

We continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions in Laos overall. Higher levels apply in some areas. Several foreign nationals, including Australians, died of methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks in 2024. Be alert to the potential risks, particularly with spirit-based drinks, including cocktails. For further advice on the risks around methanol poisoning as well as drink spiking (see 'Safety'). Lao authorities issued an order prohibiting the sale and consumption of Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky due to their concerns about these products being a health risk. Australians should avoid consuming these products due to these serious safety concerns. Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes activities such as river tubing, zip lining, bungee jumping, riding in fast boats and ferries (see 'Safety'). We advise: Exercise normal safety precautions in Laos overall. Higher levels apply in some areas.

We continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution in Zimbabwe. Demonstrations and protests in Zimbabwe can be unpredictable and may turn violent quickly. Avoid activities that could be considered political and stay away from protests and demonstrations. During periods of unrest, monitor local media, avoid affected areas and follow advice from local authorities (see ‘Safety’). If you’re arriving from Uganda or the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), you may be subject to enhanced health screening measures due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the DRC (see 'Health' and 'Travel'). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Zimbabwe due to the threat of crime and the risk of civil unrest.

Depending on why you're travelling and how long you plan to stay, you may require a visa for travel to the Schengen area. Check the European Entry and Exit (EES) and visa rules before you travel. If you're a dual national of a European country, check whether the EES applies to you and what passport you should enter on. There may be delays at border crossings (see ‘Travel’). We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.