The Canadian government has updated its travel advisory for citizens heading to the United States, pointing to potential complications at the border for non-binary, transgender, and other 2SLGBTQI+ travellers.

The warning comes in response to recent policy shifts in Washington that directly affect how gender identity is recognised in federal documents.

Why This Advisory Matters

Since 2019, Canadians have been able to choose an “X” gender marker on their passports.

The issue is that the United States no longer recognises gender identities outside of “male” or “female.” In January 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order requiring federal agencies to list only sex assigned at birth on all documents.

Although a US judge put parts of this order on hold in June, the case is still tied up in court. In the meantime, border and immigration systems are already shifting to follow the new rules.

What this means for Canadian travellers with an “X” marker:

• You could face extra questions at the border.
• Entry may be delayed or denied.
• Visa applications could run into problems.
• You may be asked to choose “male” or “female,” regardless of what your passport says.

Canada’s advisory is clear: having an “X” on your passport does not guarantee smooth entry into the United States.

Wider Concerns for LGBTQ+ Travellers

The advisory isn’t just about border stamps and paperwork. It also highlights broader risks tied to laws in certain US states. Some states have introduced or expanded measures targeting LGBTQ+ rights, ranging from limits on gender expression to laws criminalising same-sex relationships.

Canadian officials are urging travellers to do their homework before visiting. Conditions vary widely across the United States, and what feels safe in one city could be very different in another.

Practical Advice for Canadian Travellers

For Canadians preparing trips to the US, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community, the government recommends a cautious and well-prepared approach:

• Review all travel documents closely before departure.
• Confirm that your passport and visa details follow US entry requirements.
• Be ready to state “male” or “female” upon request, even if your Canadian passport lists “X.”
• Stay up-to-date on local laws in the states you intend to visit.
• Carry supporting documents if you believe clarification may be required.

Why This Matters Now

This advisory underscores the uncertain reality facing LGBTQ+ travellers at a time of shifting US policies. While many Canadians cross the border without issue, the new legal framework introduces a heightened element of risk for those whose identity documents don’t fit the binary norm.

For travellers, the bottom line is simple: check your paperwork, understand the political climate of your destination, and be prepared for extra questions at the US border.

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