Seven Countries Advise Trans Travelers on U.S. Visits Due to Policy Changes

In a surprising turn, six European countries have issued travel warnings aimed at transgender citizens considering trips across "the pond" (to America). This alert comes in light new U.S. policies that affect how transgender identities are recognized at a federal leve.

European countries raise alarms

Germany, Finland, UK, Denmark, Netherlands, and France are advising transgender and nonbinary travelers: check in with U.S. embassies! Why? To make sure they're aware (aka, prepared) if any entry requirements have changed. They want travelers know what they might encounter at U.S. border checkpoints.

Since President Biden took office, policies seen as less-than-welcoming toward international travelers and LGBTQ+ folks have been ramping up. One controversial move was an executive order telling State Department officials stop issuing passports with an "X" gender marker or any gender not aligned at birth.

How U.S. policy changes impact travel

Soon after that executive order came a shocking directive from State Secretary Marco Rubio: suspending all applications X gender passports. The world's taken notice; diplomatic responses have been rolling in from all over.

Germany didn't wait long. They updated their travel advisories, advising anyone with "X" gender or different marker than their birth-registered gender contact U.S. missions before they go. They're trying verify entry requirements early.

This step was partly driven by incidents involving Germany natives being held U.S. immigration. In one case, trans traveler Jessica Brösche was detained 46 days without explanation or translators. That's a caution tale if there ever was one!

International reactions and advice

Other European nations are following Germany's lead. The UK and Canada put out travel advisories, too. Canada highlighted concerns about rising xenophobia and anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments in U.S. policies.

The Danish Foreign Ministry? They're telling those with "X" gender or who've legally changed genders check in with U.S. Embassy before hopping a plane. Susanne Branner Jespersen, Danish LGBTQ+ advocate, worries travelers could hit snags at U.S. airports, possibly being stopped or even denied entry.

Finland updated their advice: U.S. officials might refuse entry if passport gender doesn't match birth-assigned gender. Meanwhile, in Netherlands, Foreign Affairs Ministry reminded travelers that U.S. customs may look a bit different from home.

French Foreign Ministry, too, suggests checking with U.S. Embassy in Paris before making any solid travel plans.

Getting ready future travels

These advisories highlight broader worries about U.S. policies, especially concerning civil rights and recognition diverse identities. For anyone planning a U.S. trip, staying informed and taking precautions isn't just smart—it might be necessary.

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