Updated on October 9, 2024 by canadian immigration experts
‘X’ GENDER DESIGNATION IN CANADIAN PASSPORT
Starting August 31, Canadians will be able to identify as neither male nor female when applying for a Canadian passport.
Besides their Canadian passport, Canadians can apply for other documents issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) include an ‘X’. The measure will allow people to identify themselves as having a gender that is unspecified.
In announcing the introduction of the ‘X’ designation, federal Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen stated that “All Canadians should feel safe to be themselves, live according to their gender identity and express their gender as they choose.
By introducing an ‘X’ gender designation in our Canadian passport as well as other government-issued documents, we are taking an important step towards advancing equality for all Canadians regardless of gender identity or expression.”
In a statement, the government is stating that it will continue its work in developing a consistent approach to how departments and programs collect, use, and display sex and gender information ‘so Canadians can have their gender more accurately reflected in government documents while also protecting their privacy,’ adding that the government is ‘committed to better reflecting the gender identity and gender diversity of Canadians.’
Jane Katkova & Associates – Canadian Immigration, Global Mobility Experts
We are helping dozens of immigrants every month to get a work permit in Canada, permanent resident, and Canadian citizenship over the past two decades. Contact us for a consultation.