Canada Warns “X” Passport Holders May Face Issues Entering U.S.

Global Affairs Canada has warned citizens carrying passports with an “X” gender marker that they could face difficulties entering the United States and other countries that do not recognize non-binary identifiers.

Updated Travel Advisory for U.S. Visitors

The advisory, updated this week, notes that while Canada issues passports with an “X” option, it “cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries.” Travelers may be required to declare their sex as male or female when crossing borders.

Context: U.S. Policy on Gender and Sex

The warning follows a U.S. executive order issued earlier this year under President Donald Trump, directing federal agencies to recognize only two sexes — male and female — in government documents. The order, which replaced the term “gender” with “sex” in official usage, has faced legal challenges. A federal judge blocked its enforcement, but the administration is appealing.

Canadian “X” Passport Uptake

Canada introduced the “X” gender marker on passports in 2019. As of January 2025, approximately 3,600 Canadians had opted for this designation, according to federal data.

Government Communication and Advisory Updates

A spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada said that guidance regarding “X” passports was added to all Canadian travel pages on September 23. The U.S.-specific page was updated on September 29 to highlight “updated information on 2SLGBTQi+ persons.”

Ongoing Travel Warnings for U.S.

This advisory is part of a broader series of warnings for Canadians traveling to the U.S. Last year, Ottawa updated guidance after state-level legislation targeting 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, cautioning that laws discriminating based on gender identity or criminalizing same-sex activities could put travelers at risk.

Canadian authorities continue to monitor international policies affecting 2SLGBTQi+ travelers and urge individuals to consult updated travel advisories before departure.