The federal government is now accepting “other” as a gender designation for travellers flying through or into Canada.
The online applications for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals, now list “other” as a gender option. The gender designation must match the one shown on the traveller’s passport.
That should resolve the problems encountered by some foreign travellers who do not identify as either male or female.
Last summer, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told CP24 that Ottawa is considering a gender-neutral option for identity cards, after Ontario announced plans to introduce gender-neutral driver’s licences and health cards in 2017.
“It’s something we’re looking at federally. We’re just trying to figure out the best way to actually get around to doing it,” Trudeau said in July. “That’s part of the great arc of history sweeping towards justice.”
The eTA is now required for all foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries who fly into or through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and those who have a valid Canadian visa.
Applying for an eTA is done online and costs $7. Travellers entering Canada by sea or land do not need an eTA.
