Entry to the United States and other countries may prove problematic for Canadian citizens who list “X” as their gender on their passports, the government has warned in a recent online Global Affairs update.
The statement on the U.S. travel page reads, “While the Government of Canada issues passports with a ‘X’ gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the ‘X’ gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.”
It adds, “You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the ‘X’ gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.”
Earlier this year, the government estimated that around 3,600 Canadian citizens have listed “X” on their passports.
However, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the U.S. government to only recognize two sexes: male and female – an order that is still before the courts.
The Global Affairs warning applies to all destinations, although the U.S. page was changed on Sept. 29 to provide “updated information on 2SLGBTQi+ persons.”
The Canada Border Services Agency said in August that new and renewing Nexus card holders could not use X as their gender.
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