Maple News reports that Canada has updated its immigration policy to allow temporary residents to change the sex or gender identifier on their official immigration documents. This initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to uphold and promote the human rights of LGBTQ2+ individuals in alignment with contemporary values and legal standards.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that applicants can now request updates to their gender markers—’M’ for male, ‘F’ for female, or ‘X’ for gender-neutral—on a range of documents including work permits, study permits, visitor visas, and refugee documents. These changes reflect Canada’s inclusive stance on gender identity and provide greater flexibility for temporary residents to align their official documentation with their lived identities.
However, the policy applies only to active immigration documents. Historical records, such as immigration history files or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), remain unchanged unless the applicant can demonstrate a clerical or administrative error.
To initiate a gender identifier change, individuals must complete the IRCC’s “Request Form for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier.” Once submitted, IRCC may follow up for additional evidence to verify identity or support the request. For applicants under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must co-sign the request and provide proof of their legal relationship to the minor.
Documents that are eligible for updates include:
– Temporary Resident Documents (visitor visas, study and work permits)
– Permanent Resident Cards
– Certificates of Canadian Citizenship
– Protected Person documents
– Refugee Protection Claimant Documents
– Verification of Status (VOS) documents for protected persons and risk assessment applicants
Importantly, a mismatch between the gender marker on Canadian documents and a foreign passport will not automatically disqualify applicants. IRCC has confirmed that gender identity differences across documents will not negatively affect immigration decisions.
This step forward represents a meaningful development for equity and accessibility in Canada’s immigration system. The ability to reflect one’s gender identity accurately on official records encourages dignity, privacy, and fair treatment throughout the immigration process.