On March 4, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced significant revisions to key immigration forms. Notably, the forms no longer allow applicants to select “Another Gender Identity,” limiting options strictly to “Male” or “Female.” This change directly impacts forms such as Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) and Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
Background: The Recent Shift in Gender Policy
Historically, USCIS had expanded inclusivity on forms by offering non-binary options, providing recognition and validation for transgender and gender-diverse individuals. These provisions aligned with broader societal movements toward recognizing diverse gender identities. However, recent policy shifts represent a significant rollback of these inclusive measures.
This restrictive approach reflects a broader political agenda underscored by the recent presidential order aimed at redefining gender and sex federally. These actions signal a clear shift away from policies that supported gender diversity, creating concern among affected communities.
Broader Context: Executive Order 14168
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14168, titled “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.” This executive order mandates federal recognition exclusively of two sexes—male and female—and has profound implications across all federal agencies.
The State Department, for instance, has already ceased issuing passports with an “X” gender marker, reverting exclusively to binary gender designations. Additionally, federal websites have systematically removed transgender-related resources and information, severely limiting access to support and guidance for transgender and non-binary individuals.
Real-Life Implications for the LGBTQIA+ Community
For transgender and non-binary individuals, these policy changes go beyond mere administrative adjustments—they can profoundly affect daily life. Having official documents that do not accurately represent one’s identity can create significant challenges, from difficulty traveling internationally to potential issues with employment verification and healthcare access.
Furthermore, this rollback could heighten vulnerability to discrimination and prejudice, as mismatched documentation exposes individuals to unwanted attention and questioning. This erosion of legal recognition is more than symbolic—it represents a tangible risk to personal safety and well-being.
Civil Rights and Community Response
Civil rights organizations have strongly opposed these recent changes. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is at the forefront, voicing deep concerns about potential civil rights violations and advocating for the restoration of inclusive gender policies.
Advocacy groups argue these policies not only erase the existence and rights of transgender and non-binary individuals but could also set a dangerous precedent for future restrictions on LGBTQIA+ rights. Mobilization efforts, legal challenges, and public awareness campaigns are underway to counteract these discriminatory measures and protect the rights of affected communities.
How Live Proudly Abroad Can Help
Amid this challenging climate, initiatives like Live Proudly Abroad are stepping up to provide much-needed assistance. Established by D’Alessio Law, this project supports LGBTQIA+ individuals considering relocation to safer, more inclusive countries. Live Proudly Abroad provides specialized legal guidance on visas, residency planning, and citizenship applications, ensuring the complexities of international relocation are manageable and clearly understood.
Taking the Next Step
If recent policy changes have left you concerned about your future, know that you have options. Live Proudly Abroad is dedicated to helping you find a community and country where you can live freely and authentically.
For more details and support, visit Live Proudly Abroad.
