U.S. State Department to alter gender identification marker on passports

In a June 30 press release, the U.S. Department of State announced that it is updating its procedures to “allow applicants [for passports] to self-select their gender as ‘M’ or ‘F’ and will no longer require medical certification if an applicant’s self-selected gender does not match the gender on their citizenship or identity documents,” such as a birth certificate or driver’s license.

The press release further stated, “The Department has begun moving towards adding a gender marker for non-binary, intersex, and gender non-conforming persons applying for a passport or Consular Reports of Birth Abroad.  We are evaluating the best approach to achieve this goal,” adding that making the change “will take time.”

Additionally, to update the gender of a child under the age of 16, both parents must provide consent.

The State Department “is taking these steps after considerable consultation with like-minded governments who have undertaken similar changes.”

Antony J. Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, said, “With this action, I express our enduring commitment to the LGBTQI+ community today and moving forward.”