Skip to content

Passports

Gender X on a Canadian Passport: How to Choose or Change It

Canadian passports show one of three gender identifiers: F, M or X. If your supporting documents do not show the identifier you want, add form PPTC 643 (adults) or PPTC 644 (children under 16) to your application. No form is needed if your old passport has an "X" sticker.

By Fact-checked by Samuel Athur

Last verified How we check our facts

The three options

  • F: female
  • M: male
  • X: another gender

If you have an "X" sticker

Some passports have an "X" observation sticker added before X could be printed. It counts the same as a printed X.

When you apply again, you do not need the request form. Your new passport will have X printed on it.

Travelling with an X passport

Some countries and airlines may not recognize X. You may still be asked for male or female when booking.

Before you travel, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.

Step by step

  1. Check your supporting documents.

    Your proof of citizenship or previous passport may already show the identifier you want. If so, you need nothing else.

  2. If not, fill in the request form.

    PPTC 643 for adults 16 and older, or PPTC 644 for children under 16.

  3. Send it with your passport application.

Phone numbers

Passport Program (Canada and U.S.)

1-800-567-6868

Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm local time (Newfoundland 9 am to 5:30 pm). Closed on statutory holidays.

Related

Change the Name on Your Canadian Passport To change the name on your Canadian passport, apply for a new passport. You cannot use the renewal form. Include a document that explains the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce order or legal name change certificate, and ID that shows your new name. Canadian Passport Forms: Which One Do You Need? Adults renewing in Canada or the U.S. use form PPTC 054. Adults applying for a new passport in Canada use PPTC 153. Children under 16 applying in Canada use PPTC 155. Download a new form from canada.ca every time you apply. How to Renew a Canadian Passport: Online, by Mail or in Person You can renew an adult passport issued in the last 15 years, when you were 16 or older, if your name, date of birth, place of birth and gender identifier are unchanged. Renew online or by mail in about 20 business days, or in person for faster service. A 10-year passport costs $163.50 in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Can I change both my name and gender identifier at once?

Yes. Include the documents for both changes in one new passport application.

Do I need a doctor's letter to change my gender identifier?

No. The request form (PPTC 643 or 644) is used when your other documents do not match.

Sources

North Help Desk is an independent guide, not a government website. Rules, amounts and phone hours can change; always confirm on the official page before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.