Canada updates travel advisory for non-binary travellers heading to the U.S. Image: Yahoo!
The Canadian government has issued an updated travel warning for citizens planning to visit the United States, especially for those who identify as non-binary. The new advisory urges travellers with an “X” gender marker on their passports to take extra precautions before crossing the border.
The update follows ongoing debates and policy shifts in the U.S. surrounding gender identity recognition. Canada’s warning highlights the possibility that travellers who do not identify strictly as male or female may face difficulties while entering or transiting through the U.S.
Concern Over New U.S. Rules
The advisory comes after a new executive order from President Donald Trump that directs American authorities to recognize only two gender categories: male and female. This change could create complications for non-binary travellers who hold Canadian passports marked with an “X” under gender identification.
Canadian officials cautioned that border agents or travel systems in the U.S. may not recognize the third gender option. “While the Government of Canada issues passports with an ‘X’ gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries,” the advisory stated.
Authorities also warned that travellers could face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize this identifier. They encouraged Canadians to confirm entry rules with the nearest foreign representative before departing.
Travellers Urged to Check Requirements
The government noted that some travel booking systems and immigration platforms might still require gender information as either male or female. “You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when traveling,” the statement added.
This is not the first time Canada has raised awareness about potential barriers faced by non-binary travellers. Since the introduction of the “X” gender option in 2019, the government has worked to ensure inclusivity in official documentation. According to recent figures, about 3,500 Canadians currently hold passports with this designation.
Visa and Stay Rules Also Highlighted
The travel update also reminded Canadians visiting the U.S. about visa and stay regulations. The advisory explained that Canadian visitors can generally stay in the U.S. for up to six months without a visa. However, it noted that visas can be reviewed or revoked by American authorities for different reasons.
The government encouraged travellers to stay informed about any rule changes before making travel plans.
Embassy Responds to Advisory
Officials at the American Embassy in Canada did not comment on the updated warning. Jennifer Young, a spokesperson for the embassy, said in an email that “due to the current lapse in appropriations, we are not in a position to provide comment or schedule interviews at this time.”
The embassy’s limited response follows a government shutdown in the U.S., which has affected several departments, including foreign affairs communication.
