European countries Denmark and Finland have revised their travel guidelines for transgender people planning to visit the United States, an initiative that follows similar guidance updates by other European countries, including Britain and Germany, largely in apparent response to President Donald Trump’s tough immigration policies and crackdown on transgender rights, Newsweek reported.
Why It Matters
Trump has issued executive orders rolling back rights for transgender and nonbinary people since returning to the presidency. On January 20, his first day back in office, Trump issued an order that the government would recognize only male and female genders.
A new condition has been added under Denmark’s visa rules for entry into the US: that when applying for a US visa, only two gender options are available, male or female.
According to Newsweek, the change was made after LGBT+ Denmark contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requesting an update on travel advice to Radiollll.
Meanwhile, in Finland, the advisory said that if the gender on an applicant’s passport is different from the gender confirmed at birth, US authorities can deny entry. It is advisable to check the entry requirements with the US authorities in advance.
On the other hand, Finnish passports do not include the “X” gender marker. If a dual citizen holds a passport with an “X” mark, it is recommended to check the entry regulations with United States authorities in advance, according to the new guidelines.
This comes even after Trump signed an executive order outlining steps to ban transgender people from serving in the military, a policy currently facing legal challenges, according to reports. In late February, a Pentagon memo was issued directing military branches to identify and exempt transgender service members within 30 days.
According to a memo issued later by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, transgender people will no longer be allowed to join the military, and service members with gender dysphoria who are already serving will be treated with dignity and respect.
Federal Judge Ana Reyes blocked Trump’s executive order, which was originally a ban on transgender people in the military.
Meanwhile, according to Newsweek, the UK has changed some travel guidelines for British citizens planning to visit the country, warning that travelers who do not comply with entry conditions could face arrest or detention.
Another European country, Germany, has told its citizens that even with a visa or entry permit, they are not guaranteed entry into the United States. Reuters reported that the country’s foreign ministry updated its travel advisory for the US on Tuesday after several Germans were detained at the border.
What Happens Next
More European countries are expected to update travel guidelines later as Trump reshapes America’s domestic and foreign policy.
Also Read: A complete list of executive orders signed by President Trump since his inauguration
