US Department of Immigration Streamlines Citizenship Forms With Gender-Neutral Options
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a non-binary gender option on citizenship application forms. This aims to collect data about immigrants’ gender identities more accurately.
Previously, USCIS forms only provided male and female options. However, some applicants do not identify within this gender binary. The statement said this created “significant barriers.”
Starting April 1, 2024, Form N-400 will include an “X” option defined as “Another Gender Identity.” USCIS guidance and other forms will also be updated overtime to reflect this change.
The US Immigration Agency explained that adding a third option helps ensure identity records match individuals’ gender experiences. It also aligns USCIS practices with those of other government agencies like the Department of State, which already offer an “X” on passports.
Limiting options to male and female created challenges for USCIS processing forms with gender markers outside this gender binary. It also risked administrative and legal issues if records did not match submitted identity documents.
This reform aims to create a more inclusive process that respects diverse identities. US Immigration continues modernizing policies to improve immigrants’ access to services. Overall, the update streamlines citizenship procedures, reflecting the Department’s commitment to serving all communities.
