Denmark, Finland Urges Transgender Citizens to Seek Guidance Before US Travel

In response to recent changes in the US passport policies regarding gender markers, several European nations have issued travel advisories cautioning transgender individuals planning to visit the United States.

Denmark, Germany, and Finland are among the countries urging their citizens to seek guidance from the US embassies before travelling, citing potential complications arising from passports that include an “X” gender marker or reflect a gender different from the one assigned at birth. The advisories stem from a US executive order defining gender on federal documentation exclusively as male or female.

“When applying for an ESTA or visa to the United States, there are two gender designations to choose from: male or female,” the Danish travel advisory stated in an update Friday.

This directive has led the US State Department to cease issuing travel documents with the “X” gender marker, a classification often used by nonbinary individuals. The policy also restricts applicants from altering gender designations on passports to reflect their affirmed identities rather than their sex assigned at birth. LGBT+ Denmark has voiced concerns that transgender travellers could face legal and social challenges, including potential denial of entry at the US borders.

“If you have the gender designation X in your passport, or you have changed your gender, it is recommended that you contact the U.S. Embassy prior to travel for guidance on how to proceed,” the ministry advised.

Susanne Branner, the organization’s head, emphasizes the need for clear and consistent entry protocols. Germany’s Foreign Ministry issued a similar caution, advising travellers with an “X” gender marker or gender discrepancies between their passports and birth records to consult with the US diplomatic missions before their journey. Finland echoes these concerns, emphasizing that travellers in comparable circumstances should confirm their eligibility with the US authorities before departure.