U.S. citizens can now choose gender “X” on their passport applications

U.S. citizens applying for a passport can now select the gender “X” on their applications in addition to the previously available “F” and “M” options. The State Department announced last year that it was adding a third gender option following a lawsuit by an intersex and nonbinary Colorado resident who argued that it was impossible to get a passport that accurately reflected one’s gender identity.

The change took effect on Monday, with passport application forms on the government’s website reflecting the additional choice. “We continue to work closely with our federal government partners to ensure as smooth a travel experience as possible for all passport holders, regardless of their gender identity,” the State Department said in a statement in March.

“We reaffirm our commitment to promoting and protecting the freedom, dignity, and equality of all persons, including transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming persons around the world.”

How the gender ‘X’ marker works:

The State Department is the first U.S. federal agency to offer the gender “X” marker on an identity document.

The marker is officially defined as “unspecified or another gender identity.” The State Department said it arrived at the definition after seeking public feedback, consulting with partner countries and conducting research with  the Centers for Disease Control and the Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics that involved interviews with members of the LGBTQI+ community.

Whatever gender marker applicants choose will appear on their passport regardless of the gender listed on previous passports or supporting documents proving citizenship and identity. The requirement for medical documentation has also been dropped.

The gender “X” marker will also become available as an option on other documents next year, the State Department said.