United States (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Canadian government has updated its travel advisory warning citizens with gender-neutral “X” passports about challenges they may face crossing the U.S. border due to changing U.S. federal policies requiring sex assigned at birth on official documents. Increased scrutiny and visa reassessments may affect LGBTQ+ travellers.
Canada updates travel advisory for gender-neutral passport holders to the US
The Canadian government updated its travel advisory on September 29, 2025, informing citizens holding passports with the gender-neutral “X” designation to expect potential challenges crossing into the United States. The advisory comes as U.S. federal systems increasingly no longer accept gender identity markers and require individuals to supply their sex assigned at birth on various official forms, including visa applications, NEXUS enrolments, Social Security records, and passport services.
Canada introduced the “X” gender marker in passports in 2019, aiming to provide recognition to non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. However, the U.S. federal government under President Donald Trump issued an executive order in January 2025 restricting passports and other documents to male or female only. Though a Massachusetts federal judge blocked enforcement in June, legal battles continue, and agencies have implemented new requirements in practice.
Visa and Residency Risks with U.S. Entry
The advisory also warns that Canadian citizens who require U.S. visas or permanent residency could face visa cancellations or status reassessments. Reasons might include violations of admission terms or prior criminal convictions. Permanent residents risk revocation of resident status if found living outside the U.S. beyond permitted periods or on reassessment grounds.
Increased Border Scrutiny for 2SLGBTQI+ Individuals
Canadian travellers with “X” on their passports should be prepared for thorough questioning and inspection by U.S. border officials, including the possible search of electronic devices. The advisory states discretionary authority rests heavily with individual border agents, warning travellers that denial of entry could result in detention and deportation.
United States Variability in Rights and Protections
The advisory highlights that U.S. laws vary widely at the state and municipal levels, with some jurisdictions enacting restrictive policies impacting 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Travellers are urged to inform themselves about state-specific regulations impacting their rights and safety.
Advice for Canadian Travellers
Global Affairs Canada recommends all travellers to carefully verify travel documents and visa status ahead of U.S. visits. Those affected should coordinate with their airline and consult the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for updated requirements. Complying fully with border protocols and being transparent during inspections is advised to minimise travel disruption.
Wider Implications
This advisory reflects the ongoing legal and social contestation over gender identity rights, especially affecting international travel for non-binary and transgender individuals. It underscores the complexities created by divergent national policies on gender recognition and the personal impacts faced.
Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
