Background: Canada recognizes X gender on passports
The Canadian government has long issued passports with an X gender marker, a policy intended to be inclusive of non-binary and gender-diverse Canadians. Since 2019, Canadians have had the option to list X as their gender on passports, a move that aligns with broader global conversations about gender identity. In January, officials noted that an estimated 3,600 Canadians had chosen the X option on their passports.
What the advisory says
In a change made earlier this week, the Department of Global Affairs added a warning to its United States travel advice page for 2SLGBTQ+ Canadian passport holders. The notice cautions that while Canada issues passports with an X gender identifier, it cannot guarantee entry or transit through other countries. “You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the X gender identifier,” the advisory states, adding that travelers may still be asked to provide sex/gender information as male or female while abroad.
U.S. policy context
The move comes in the context of U.S. policy shifts related to gender recognition. Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the U.S. government to recognize only two sexes—male and female—and to refer to “sex” rather than “gender” on federal documents. That order is currently before the courts, with the administration seeking to lift a district court ruling that blocked enforcement of Trump’s policy in some cases related to passport issuance and gender recognition.
Practical implications for travelers
The advisory underscores a practical reality for Canadians with X-listed passports: entry to the United States and other countries is not guaranteed. Canadians should be aware that they “may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.” This could complicate check-in, security, or entry procedures, depending on how individual border officials interpret the documentation. Travelers should plan accordingly, keeping in mind that policies can vary by country and may change on short notice.
Broader travel-advisory context
Global Affairs has a history of updating travel guidance in response to evolving laws and social climates. In 2023, the department broadened warnings about U.S. travel after several states enacted anti-2SLGBTQ+ laws. Earlier updates in 2024 and 2025 similarly cautioned travelers about additional scrutiny at the border or entry points to the United States. In August, Canada Border Services Agency announced that Canadians applying for or renewing Nexus cards would no longer be able to list X as their gender, reflecting ongoing policy adjustments around identity documentation for rapid-travel programs.
What travellers should do
Travelers with an X marker on their Canadian passport should consider verifying current entry rules for their destination country well in advance of travel. If possible, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance, and be prepared with additional documentation or clarification if border officers request it. Airlines and border officials may have varying requirements, so allow extra time for check-in and processing. As always during periods of legal uncertainty, staying informed through official government advisories is essential.
Conclusion
The Canadian government’s updated travel advice reflects a cautious approach to cross-border mobility amid changing policies on gender recognition. For Canadians holding an X marker, awareness of both the U.S. policy climate and the broader international landscape can help reduce travel disruptions and ensure a smoother travel experience.
