U.S. Policy Shift Alters Gender Options on Canadian Nexus Cards
Canadians applying for or renewing Nexus cards will no longer have the option to select “X” as a gender marker. The non-binary designation, once available to applicants, has been removed. From now on, individuals must choose either “M” (male) or “F” (female). This policy change stems from a directive introduced under the Trump administration, which only recognizes two legal genders. Although the rule originates in the United States, it is now influencing bi-national identification programs overseen by both countries.
Non-Binary Canadians Must Choose Binary Option for Nexus
As reported by The Globe and Mail, Canadians with passports marked with the “X” gender option will be required to list themselves as either male or female when applying for a Nexus card. This applies regardless of their official Canadian documents, which lawfully recognize non-binary identities. The change presents a unique challenge to individuals who do not identify exclusively as male or female.
How Shared Oversight in the Nexus Program Affects Gender Policies
The Nexus program is a trusted traveler initiative jointly administered by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Its goal is to streamline cross-border travel for low-risk, pre-approved travelers. Due to its bilateral nature, any shift in policies from either country — particularly those related to security or identification standards — can impact enforcement on both sides. In this case, U.S. gender ID regulations are now informing the application criteria for Canadians as well.
Current “X” Gender Nexus Cards Remain Valid Until Expiry
The Canada Border Services Agency has clarified that existing Nexus cards displaying the “X” gender marker will remain in effect until they expire. However, any updates, replacements, or new submissions must now comply with the binary gender requirement. This change introduces fresh hurdles for transgender and non-binary travelers who previously relied on the inclusive “X” option.
Impacting a Small, Yet Growing, Segment of Travelers
Since Canada introduced the optional “X” designation on passports in 2019, approximately 3,600 Canadians have chosen to identify this way on official documents. Between January 2022 and March 2025, the CBSA recorded nearly 550 Nexus applications with the “X” marker. Though the affected population may be relatively small, the growing adoption of non-binary IDs in Canada signifies a broader cultural and legal shift — one now challenged by cross-border policy discrepancies.