The Canadian government has issued a fresh travel advisory that specifically targets citizens who hold passports marked with the nonbinary “X” gender designation. According to the warning, individuals traveling with this marker may face entry restrictions when attempting to enter the United States, as well as other countries that do not officially recognize the “X” gender option.
This announcement comes at a time of heightened political debate and policy shifts in the U.S. regarding the recognition of transgender and nonbinary individuals. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what this means for travelers, the political backdrop fueling the warning, and how it could impact Canadian citizens in real-world scenarios.
Canada’s Travel Advisory: What You Need to Know
Global Affairs Canada, which handles the nation’s diplomatic and consular matters, issued the advisory earlier this week. The agency made it clear that while Canada does issue passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee that this designation will be accepted universally at international borders.
The advisory emphasized:
“You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the ‘X’ gender identifier.”
In simpler terms, Canadian travelers carrying an “X” gender marker could face complications such as denied entry, extended questioning, or even refusal of transit if the destination country refuses to recognize the gender-neutral option.
Why the United States Is a Focus Point
The warning is particularly significant for Canadians traveling south of the border into the United States. Since President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January, his administration has rolled back several policies concerning LGBTQ+ and nonbinary rights.
During his inaugural address, Trump made headlines by stating that “there are only two sexes, male and female.” This statement signaled the start of an aggressive policy push against nonbinary and transgender recognition.
One of the most controversial moves was an executive order from the Trump administration that instructed the U.S. State Department to stop issuing passports with the ‘X’ gender marker. The order also sought to invalidate passports where the gender listed differed from the individual’s birth certificate.
However, this policy has not yet taken effect due to ongoing legal challenges. A U.S. court issued an injunction blocking the measure, and earlier this month, an appeals court rejected the Trump administration’s request to reinstate it.
Despite this temporary legal block, the situation remains uncertain. Border officials in the U.S. may still create difficulties for travelers carrying “X” gender passports, making Canada’s warning especially timely.
How Many Canadians Hold “X” Gender Passports?
Since Canada first introduced the “X” gender option in 2017, thousands of citizens have opted for this designation. Between 2019 and 2024, Ottawa issued approximately 3,400 passports with the nonbinary “X” marker.
For these travelers, Canada’s warning is more than just a formality—it directly affects their ability to move freely across borders, particularly into the United States, which is Canada’s most common travel destination.
Broader International Implications
The issue extends far beyond just Canada and the United States. Many countries around the world do not legally recognize nonbinary or gender-neutral identities. As a result, Canadian travelers with “X” passports may face hurdles not only in the U.S. but in other regions as well.
Some nations may:
- Refuse entry outright to travelers with an “X” marker.
- Delay entry by subjecting them to lengthy questioning.
- Restrict visa approvals, especially where documentation does not align with binary gender systems.
This lack of consistency underscores the challenges nonbinary individuals face when navigating international travel.
Why This Matters: The Human Impact
For nonbinary Canadians, the passport’s “X” designation represents more than just a bureaucratic option—it’s an affirmation of their identity. Being forced to carry documents that don’t align with their lived gender identity can be harmful, invalidating, and even dangerous in certain cultural or political contexts.
However, the new advisory makes clear that identity recognition is still not universal. For many, this creates an emotional and practical dilemma: should they prioritize safe travel by opting for an “M” or “F” marker, or stay true to their authentic identity with an “X” and face potential obstacles abroad?
Trump Administration and LGBTQ+ Rights
The warning cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader political climate in the U.S. The Trump administration has consistently pushed back against policies that acknowledge or protect transgender and nonbinary individuals. From healthcare rights to military service restrictions, the administration has often promoted laws and orders rooted in a binary understanding of gender.
This stance directly clashes with Canada’s more progressive policies. Canada not only allows an “X” gender marker on passports but has also integrated protections for nonbinary individuals across several federal and provincial frameworks.
For Canadian travelers, this clash highlights the risks of crossing borders where political ideologies—and policies—diverge sharply.
Tips for Canadians Traveling With “X” Gender Passports
If you hold a Canadian passport with the “X” gender designation and plan to travel internationally, especially to the United States, here are some key considerations:
- Check the Travel Advisory Frequently: Visit the official Global Affairs Canada website before traveling to see updated guidance.
- Carry Supporting Documentation: Some travelers carry additional identification or legal documents that explain their gender designation.
- Expect Additional Screening: Be prepared for the possibility of extra questions at the border, and allow more time for immigration processing.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with local laws and your rights as a traveler, especially in countries with restrictive policies.
- Have a Backup Plan: If you’re concerned about potential issues, consider applying for an alternative travel document.
Conclusion
The Canadian government’s latest advisory sheds light on the ongoing struggles faced by nonbinary travelers. While Canada has taken progressive steps to recognize diverse gender identities through its passport system, international acceptance is far from universal. With political climates shifting—particularly in the United States—holders of “X” gender passports may continue to face uncertain and sometimes hostile travel experiences.
For Canadians, this development is a reminder of the importance of staying informed, prepared, and cautious when traveling abroad. As the global conversation on gender inclusivity continues, policies like these highlight just how much progress still needs to be made to ensure equal recognition and respect for all individuals, no matter their gender identity.
