GENDER BENDER

Canada Issues New Warning to Travelers Coming to the U.S.

Canada has updated its travel advice to address new immigration restrictions in the U.S.

Canada is now advising its non-binary citizens to be aware of the United States’ changing immigration policies. In January, President Donald Trump issued an executive order to issue passports with only “male” or “female” gender markers. A federal judge in Massachusetts halted the enforcement of the policy while the ACLU has also filed a federal lawsuit challenging the executive order. Canada offers passports with an “X” as a gender marker for those who do not identify as male or female. The government warns gender-nonconforming individuals they may experience trouble entering the U.S., as their gender may not be recognized. Previously, Canadian travelers could stay in the U.S. for up to six months without a visa. However, Canadian authorities warn citizens that their visas or permanent residency may be at risk. The U.S. may review already issued visas under a new protocol. Previous criminal convictions, living outside of the country longer than permitted, and failure to have a “male” or “female” identification can now result in visa termination.