Updated on September 23, 2026 by canadian immigration experts
‘X’ GENDER DESIGNATION IN CANADIAN PASSPORT
Available Markers: F, M, X (unspecified/another gender)
Introduced: 31 August 2017
Proof Required: None—self-selection only (since June 2019)
Valid in New Passports: Yes—carried forward to the 2023-issue e-passport
What the “X” Marker Means
The “X” option lets applicants state that their gender is unspecified or falls outside the binary of female and male. It appears in the same “sex” field that shows F or M on standard documents. This marker aligns Canada’s travel documents with ICAO standards for machine-readable passports and supports the federal commitment to inclusive ID.
Key Milestones
| Year | Change | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | ‘X’ gender option launches on passports and proofs of citizenship | First G7 country to let citizens choose a non-binary marker |
| 2019 | Self-declaration replaces letter-of-support requirement | No medical or third-party documents needed |
| 2023 | New poly-carbonate e-passport unveiled; “X” retained | Ensures the marker benefits from latest security features Government of Canada |
| 2025 | Ongoing push for cross-department consistency on gender fields | Expected to extend “X” to more federal programs |
Who Can Request the “X” Marker?
Any Canadian citizen applying for:
A first adult passport
A child’s passport (parent or legal guardian chooses)
Passport renewal or replacement
Certificate of citizenship or proof of status
No additional fees or supporting documents are required. Simply tick X in the gender section of the form.
Step-by-Step: Adding or Changing Your Marker
Choose Your Form
PPTC 153 (in-Canada simplified renewal) or PPTC 055 (general).
Select “X” in Section 2 (“Sex”).
Review Photo Rules
Standard passport photo requirements apply; appearance does not need to “match” the marker.
Submit
Online (limited), in person at a Service Canada Centre, or by mail.
Track & Receive
Processing times mirror regular passports—check current estimates on the IRCC page.
For certificates of citizenship, use CIT 0407 and select “X.”
Travelling With an “X” Passport
| Scenario | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Entering countries that do not recognise “X” | Border staff may refuse entry or ask extra questions. Carry a letter explaining Canada’s policy and be prepared for secondary inspection. |
| Electronic visa forms limited to M/F | Choose the option that you feel is safest, then travel with supporting ID that confirms the same marker. |
| Airline systems | Most IATA member carriers can capture the “X” code, but some smaller carriers still default to binary fields—call ahead. |
| U.S. travel (2025 update) | The U.S. now restricts passport sex markers to M or F. Canadians with “X” passports can still enter but may face longer processing; have additional ID handy. |
Other Canadian Documents Offering “X”
NEXUS card (Trusted Traveler)
Work permits & study permits
Permanent resident cards
Some provincial IDs (Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Québec, and more)
Check your province or territory for current rules.
Benefits Beyond Travel
Accurate Identity: Reduces mis-gendering in banking, employment, and housing paperwork.
Safety & Dignity: Signals Canada’s legal recognition of diverse gender identities, helping reduce discrimination.
Data Consistency: One marker across documents simplifies background checks and credentialing.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Can I switch back to “F” or “M” later?
Yes—submit a regular renewal application and choose the new marker. No proof required.
Will an ‘X’ passport expire sooner?
No. Adult passports remain valid for up to 10 years, the same as F or M.
Does an ‘X’ marker affect child custody or parental consent rules?
No. The child passport consent process stays unchanged.
Is ‘X’ accepted on eTA or U.S. ESTA forms?
Current eTA forms accept ‘X’. The U.S. ESTA does not; travellers must select M or F and may need to match that choice with other IDs.
Which airlines recognise ‘X’?
Air Canada, WestJet, Lufthansa Group, and most global carriers now recognise the non-binary code. Smaller regional airlines may not—verify during booking.
Need Expert Help?
Choosing the right gender marker is personal. If you hold dual citizenship, plan complex travel routes, or need other Canadian immigration services, expert guidance can save time and stress.
Jane Katkova & Associates has helped thousands gain work permits, permanent residence, and citizenship for more than 20 years. We can review your documentation, confirm the best strategy, and guide you through every IRCC form.
Ready to proceed?
Book your confidential consultation today and move forward with confidence.
