OTTAWA — The Government of Canada is advising citizens who hold gender-neutral passports marked with an “X” that they may face complications when entering the United States, following policy changes under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
In an update quietly added to its official travel advisory website, Global Affairs Canada cautioned that while the country issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it “cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries.” The notice further warns that some border authorities — including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — may require travellers to declare their gender as either male or female, as the “X” marker may not be recognized.
The advisory comes after President Trump signed an executive order limiting federal recognition to two sexes, male and female, and ordering that all U.S. government documents use the term “sex” rather than “gender.” The directive is currently being challenged in U.S. courts, where a federal judge temporarily blocked its enforcement.
The Canada Border Services Agency confirmed that the U.S. modified its NEXUS application process earlier this year to align with Trump’s order, removing the gender-neutral option. As a result, Canadians applying for or renewing trusted traveller cards can no longer select “X” on their NEXUS forms.
According to Global Affairs spokesperson Alexandre Fournier, about 3,600 Canadians currently hold passports with an “X” gender marker — an option first introduced in 2019. Fournier said the government expanded the advisory on September 23 to ensure consistent guidance across all countries where recognition of gender-neutral documents may pose issues.
The updated U.S. travel notice also includes a reminder that some American systems may now request sex assigned at birth, and that existing U.S. visas or permanent residency status can be “subject to review or termination for various reasons.”
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment, citing the ongoing government shutdown.
This is the latest in a series of Canadian travel advisories addressing risks faced by 2SLGBTQ+ travellers. In 2023, Canada warned citizens of U.S. state laws criminalizing same-sex activities and targeting gender-diverse individuals. Earlier this year, it added that those with “X” gender markers could face extra screening or questioning when entering the U.S.
For now, Canadians travelling south of the border are being urged to plan ahead — and to be prepared to identify as male or female, even if their Canadian passport says otherwise.