Sex or gender identifier on IRCC documents and in IRCC systems (identity management)
This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.
This section provides guidance on the establishment of an applicant’s sex or gender identifier in IRCC systems for the following IRCC lines of business:
- citizenship
- permanent residence
- temporary residence
- refugees
This guidance applies to initial applications with IRCC as well as to applications for replacement documents.
Applicants have the option to select one of the following sex or gender identifiers:
- F (female)
- M (male)
- X (another gender)
The officer processing the request may change an applicant’s sex or gender identifier based only on a completed request form for a change of sex or gender identifier. The officer must ensure that the applicant’s identity is recorded as accurately as possible.
Note: If the client is requesting a change of name at the same time, see Naming procedures: Managing existing records – Change of name request for the required documentation.
For information on how to change the sex identifier on a passport or travel document, see Choose or update the gender identifier on your passport or travel document.