The Canadian government has updated its travel advisory for the United States, cautioning citizens with gender-neutral “X” passports that their entry or transit through the country may not be guaranteed.
While Canada offers the “X” designation for non-binary travellers, Ottawa is reminding citizens that recognition of this marker is inconsistent worldwide. “Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination,” the advisory urges. It also warns that travellers may still be required to select “male” or “female” when booking with certain airlines or entering specific countries.
The warning comes as U.S. policy moves in the opposite direction. Since President Donald Trump signed an executive order on his first day back in office, the State Department has halted the issuance of passports with the “X” gender marker and no longer allows changes that reflect an individual’s gender identity instead of their birth certificate designation. Last month, his administration asked the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold those restrictions, requiring all passports to match male or female markers listed at birth.
Canada has faced similar challenges with its own border programs. Earlier this year, Ottawa confirmed that Nexus applicants and renewals can no longer use the “X” designation, though those who already hold Nexus cards issued before the rule change will remain unaffected. Between January 2022 and March 2025, about 550 Nexus applications with an “X” gender identifier were submitted to the Canada Border Services Agency.
The advisory highlights the widening gap between Canada’s commitment to gender-inclusive travel documents and the restrictions increasingly enforced by its closest neighbour. For non-binary Canadians planning to travel south, officials say preparation and extra verification will be essential.