Canada issues warning for citizens with gender-neutral passports traveling to the U.S.

United States (Eurotoday Newspaper) – The Canadian government has updated its travel advisory warning citizens with gender-neutral “X” passports about challenges they may face crossing the U.S. border due to changing U.S. federal policies requiring sex assigned at birth on official documents. Increased scrutiny and visa reassessments may affect LGBTQ+ travellers.

Canada updates travel advisory for gender-neutral passport holders to the US

The Canadian government updated its travel advisory on September 29, 2025, informing citizens holding passports with the gender-neutral “X” designation to expect potential challenges crossing into the United States. The advisory comes as U.S. federal systems increasingly no longer accept gender identity markers and require individuals to supply their sex assigned at birth on various official forms, including visa applications, NEXUS enrolments, Social Security records, and passport services.

Canada introduced the “X” gender marker in passports in 2019, aiming to provide recognition to non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. However, the U.S. federal government under President Donald Trump issued an executive order in January 2025 restricting passports and other documents to male or female only. Though a Massachusetts federal judge blocked enforcement in June, legal battles continue, and agencies have implemented new requirements in practice.

Visa and Residency Risks with U.S. Entry

The advisory also warns that Canadian citizens who require U.S. visas or permanent residency could face visa cancellations or status reassessments. Reasons might include violations of admission terms or prior criminal convictions. Permanent residents risk revocation of resident status if found living outside the U.S. beyond permitted periods or on reassessment grounds.

Increased Border Scrutiny for 2SLGBTQI+ Individuals

Canadian travellers with “X” on their passports should be prepared for thorough questioning and inspection by U.S. border officials, including the possible search of electronic devices. The advisory states discretionary authority rests heavily with individual border agents, warning travellers that denial of entry could result in detention and deportation.

United States Variability in Rights and Protections

The advisory highlights that U.S. laws vary widely at the state and municipal levels, with some jurisdictions enacting restrictive policies impacting 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Travellers are urged to inform themselves about state-specific regulations impacting their rights and safety.

Advice for Canadian Travellers

Global Affairs Canada recommends all travellers to carefully verify travel documents and visa status ahead of U.S. visits. Those affected should coordinate with their airline and consult the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for updated requirements. Complying fully with border protocols and being transparent during inspections is advised to minimise travel disruption.

Wider Implications

This advisory reflects the ongoing legal and social contestation over gender identity rights, especially affecting international travel for non-binary and transgender individuals. It underscores the complexities created by divergent national policies on gender recognition and the personal impacts faced.

Euro


Comments

5 responses to “Canada issues warning for citizens with gender-neutral passports traveling to the U.S.”

  1. SunnySnap Avatar
    SunnySnap

    Just what we needed—another reason to get questioned at the border, eh? Let’s hope the U.S. customs folk have a sense of humor while they’re at it! 😏✈️

  2. Gabriel Dandelion Avatar
    Gabriel Dandelion

    Just what every non-binary Canadian needs—an impromptu game of “Guess Your Gender” at the border! 🕵️‍♂️ I suppose the U.S. is just keeping it classic, ignoring progress like it’s a bad wine vintage. 🍷

  3. sly silvermoon Avatar
    sly silvermoon

    Seems like the U.S. is really keen on making sure their borders are as welcoming as a frosty winter morning in Siberia for anyone who dares to sport an “X” on their passport. Good luck explaining that to the border guards while they squint at your documents like they’re deciphering ancient hieroglyphs! 😂

  4. Twisty Dew Avatar
    Twisty Dew

    Looks like the U.S. is setting the bar for border control even higher — who knew the land of the free was also the land of the bureaucratic labyrinth? 😂 Better pack a thesaurus for those border questions, eh?

  5. eerie 
mizzen Avatar
    eerie mizzen

    Seems like the U.S. is really keen on bringing back the good old days of binary bureaucracy—who needs progress when you can have paperwork as thrilling as watching paint dry? 🙄✈️

  6. pecan 
oblivion Avatar
    pecan oblivion

    Just what we need, eh? A little border tango for our friends with an “X” on their passports—like a game of “guess your gender” while you’re trying to cross into the land of the free. 🇺🇸😂

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