Finland and Denmark revise travel warnings for transgender individuals visiting the US

Finland and Denmark have recently updated their travel advisories for transgender individuals planning to visit the United States, following changes in US immigration policies under President Donald Trump.

The new guidance aligns with similar updates from other European nations, including the United Kingdom and Germany, which have also expressed concerns over the treatment of transgender individuals under the current US administration.

This change comes as President Trump continues to issue executive orders that roll back rights for transgender and nonbinary individuals.

On his first day back in office, Trump signed an order that declared the government would recognize only two genders: male and female. This policy shift has prompted several European countries to reassess their travel guidance for citizens, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Under Denmark’s updated travel advisory, a new section has been added to its visa rules for entry into the United States. The advisory notes that when applying for a U.S. visa, applicants are limited to selecting from only two gender options: male or female.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark recommends that travelers with an “X” gender marker on their passport, or those who have changed their gender, contact the American embassy before traveling for further guidance on how to proceed.

This change was prompted by LGBT+ Denmark, which reached out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requesting an update on the travel advisory. The update aims to provide clarity for transgender individuals who may encounter difficulties or confusion when attempting to enter the United States.

Similarly, Finland has issued updated travel guidance, highlighting potential complications for transgender travelers.

Finnish authorities have warned that if the gender on an applicant’s passport does not match the gender listed at birth, U.S. authorities may deny entry.

The advisory strongly recommends that individuals check entry requirements with U.S. authorities before attempting to travel.

Finnish passports do not currently offer an “X” gender marker, and for dual citizens with an “X” marker, it is suggested they verify entry conditions with U.S. authorities in advance.

These developments follow President Trump’s controversial executive orders, including one that banned transgender individuals from serving in the military. Although this policy is facing legal challenges, the Pentagon issued a memo directing military branches to identify and discharge transgender service members. The administration also stated that transgender individuals would no longer be allowed to enlist in the military, though those currently serving would be treated with dignity and respect.

Other European nations, such as the United Kingdom and Germany, have also updated their travel advisories for U.S. travelers.

The UK has warned that British citizens could face arrest or detention upon arrival if they fail to comply with U.S. entry requirements. Germany has similarly informed its citizens that they are not guaranteed entry to the U.S. even if they hold a valid visa or entry waiver.

LGBT+ Denmark’s head of secretariat, Susanne Branner Jespersen, expressed concern that transgender travelers could be denied entry or subjected to unpleasant experiences at U.S. airports.

The organization plans to directly contact the American embassy for further clarity on entry procedures for transgender individuals.

As the U.S. continues to reshape its domestic and foreign policies, it is expected that more European nations may issue similar updates to their travel guidance, particularly regarding the entry of transgender individuals into the United States.