Background: Canada’s warning on X gender passport holders
The Canadian government has added a new note to its United States travel guidance for 2SLGBTQ+ Canadians who hold passports with an X gender marker. The Department of Global Affairs cautions that while Canada issues passports with an X gender identifier, it cannot guarantee entry or transit through other countries. In particular, travellers may encounter entry restrictions in nations that do not recognize the X marker. The advisory also notes that travellers may still be asked to provide sex or gender information as male or female when crossing borders.
Why the U.S. backdrop matters
The update arrives amid a broader policy debate in the United States over gender recognition in official documents. Earlier this year, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the federal government to recognize only two sexes, male and female, and to refer to documents by sex rather than gender. The order has faced legal challenges and is currently before the courts, as the administration seeks to lift a district court order blocking parts of the policy. The evolving U.S. position helps explain why Canada’s travel warning has gained renewed attention among Canadian travellers.
Official stance and limited commentary
Canadian officials, including representatives from Global Affairs and the office of Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, have not publicly commented in depth on the timing of the advisory change. A U.S. Embassy spokesperson in Canada cited a federal government shutdown as a reason not to provide further comment at the moment, underscoring how ongoing domestic logistics can influence international travel messaging.
What this means for travellers
The advisory highlights a practical risk for Canadians with X gender markers who plan travel to the United States or other jurisdictions. Although the Canadian passport supports an X gender identifier, not all countries recognize that option. In practice, officials at arrival points may ask for sex or gender details in a binary framework, potentially creating friction for travellers who rely on the X marker on their documentation.
Context: numbers and related policy moves
Canada has noted that, as of January, an estimated 3,600 Canadians list X as their gender on their passports. The X option has been available since 2019, reflecting Canada’s broader effort to offer inclusive travel documentation. In addition, the Canada Border Services Agency moved to limit X designations on Nexus cards for new applicants or renewals, reinforcing the separate policy landscape across border programs.
What about the U.S. policy and broader travel advisories?
The evolving U.S. policy environment has already prompted Canada to increase warnings about travelling to the United States. In 2023, updates highlighted that some U.S. states have enacted laws affecting 2SLGBTQ+ rights, which can in turn affect how travellers are treated at the border. The latest advisory follows that trend, signaling travel risk even for Canadians who hold a Canadian passport with an X marker.
Practical guidance for Canadians planning a trip
Travelers who hold or rely on an X gender marker should consider a few precautionary steps. First, verify the current entry rules of your destination country and be prepared to explain your gender identity if asked. Second, carry supporting documents that corroborate your gender identity and travel plans in case officials request additional context. Third, allow extra time at border checks and be courteous and patient when discussing your documentation with customs or immigration officers. Finally, stay informed through official government travel advisories and consider alternatives if you anticipate significant friction at a border.
Additional notes on travel advisories and border policies
Global Affairs Canada’s ongoing updates reflect a broader effort to help Canadians navigate the changing international border landscape. With Nexus policy changes and the U.S. policy debate continuing to unfold, travellers should regularly consult official guidance before arranging travel to the United States or other countries that may or may not recognize the X marker on Canadian passports.
Bottom line
While the X gender marker is available on Canadian passports, it is not a guarantee of entry into all countries. The U.S. policy environment, legal challenges, and border practices in other jurisdictions mean that travellers with X markers should plan carefully, verify current rules, and be prepared to respond to questions about gender identity when crossing borders.
