Unclear how Trump’s gender order would impact Canadians with ‘X’ mark on passports

The impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order on gender-neutral passports for Canadians traveling to the U.S. is still uncertain. Trump’s order, issued on Monday, directs the U.S. government to recognize only two sexes: male and female, and all federal documents, including passports, should refer to “sex” rather than “gender.”

Since 2019, Canadians who do not identify as female or male have been able to list their gender as “X” on their passports. Approximately 3,600 Canadians have this marker on their passports. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency has not provided specific guidance on how Canadians with an X on their passports will be treated following Trump’s executive order. This lack of clarity has left many in the 2SLGBTQ+ community feeling anxious and unsure about traveling to the U.S.

Helen Kennedy, executive director of Egale Canada, expressed concerns about the safety of Canadians with gender-neutral passports and the broader 2SLGBTQ+ community. She emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the situation and advised caution when considering travel to the U.S.

Fae Johnstone, executive director of Queer Momentum, announced that she would avoid traveling to the U.S. for the time being due to fears of passport rejection at the border. The existence of gender-neutral passports has already presented challenges in the U.S., with border immigration officers having the authority to deny entry to individuals with X on their passports.

Global Affairs Canada is closely monitoring the situation and advises Canadians to stay informed through its travel advisory website. The government acknowledges that each country has the right to control its borders and emphasizes that the decision to travel is the responsibility of the individual.

In light of the recent executive order and the potential impact on transgender and non-binary Canadians crossing the border, Kennedy and Johnstone are calling for updated guidelines from the Canadian government. They urge officials to provide clarity on the implications of Trump’s order for travelers and to ensure the safety and well-being of gender-diverse individuals.

As the situation continues to unfold, Kennedy recommends that anyone with a gender-neutral passport should avoid non-essential travel to the U.S. until further guidance is provided. Stay informed and prioritize safety when planning travel to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.