Several European nations are now advising caution to their transgender and non-binary citizens with “X” listed as their gender on their passports before traveling to the United States.
This warning follows a controversial executive order signed by former President Donald Trump in January, which declared that there are only two genders, banning the issuance of “X” gendered U.S. passports.
As a result, many European allies, including Germany, Finland, the UK, and Canada, are urging their transgender and non-binary residents to seek guidance from U.S. embassies before attempting to enter the country.
Impact of Trump’s Executive Order on International Travelers
Trump’s decree has caused confusion in countries where “X” gender passports are allowed.
With fears that some travelers may be denied entry due to the mismatch between their passport gender and the U.S.’s new policy, European nations have had to revise their travel advisories.
These updated warnings primarily affect transgender and non-binary individuals, and they are being urged to take extra precautions before traveling to the U.S.
Revised Travel Guidelines by European Countries
In response to the shifting U.S. regulations, several countries have updated their travel advisories.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office emphasized the importance of full compliance with U.S. entry and visa requirements, warning that any violation could lead to arrest.
France, on the other hand, advises its citizens to declare their gender assigned at birth when applying for a U.S. visa or through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), in order to meet Trump’s new rule.
Denmark’s Strict Warning and Other Nations’ Responses
Denmark has gone a step further, explicitly warning that transgender individuals could be barred from entering the U.S. if their passport gender does not align with their assigned sex at birth.
Finland’s travel guidance echoes these concerns, with its government also advising travelers to ensure that their documents match their birth-assigned gender.
Biden’s Reversal and Current U.S. Policy
The situation became even more complicated after President Joe Biden’s administration initially allowed applicants to select “X” as their gender on passports.
However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio quickly rolled back this decision following Trump’s order. U.S. authorities have since made it clear that passports must either list “male” or “female,” and travelers whose documents do not match their gender at birth may face entry refusal.
Germany and Other Allies Raise Alarms
Even countries with strong military and economic ties to the U.S., such as Germany, have issued updated guidance.
The German Federal Foreign Office has warned that residents with an “X” gender marker on their travel documents may experience problems when traveling to the U.S. German citizens are advised to list either “male” or “female” on their ESTA or visa applications, and those with “X” passports are urged to consult U.S. officials before departure.
Ultimately, U.S. customs enforcement officers hold the authority to decide who is allowed to enter the country, adding another layer of uncertainty for international travelers.
Navigating the Uncertainty for ‘X’ Gender Travelers
As the situation continues to evolve, many are left wondering how this policy change will affect the experiences of transgender and non-binary travelers who wish to visit the United States.
With growing international concern, it’s clear that these individuals face increased scrutiny, and the road ahead could be more challenging as they navigate the complexities of these shifting regulations.