Biden administration introduces 'Third Gender' option on US citizenship forms

PTC Web Desk: In a significant move aimed at enhancing inclusivity and accuracy in data collection, the Biden administration has introduced a "third gender" option on US citizenship forms. This initiative by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) seeks to address the challenges faced by individuals who do not identify strictly as male or female.

The USCIS has revised Form N-400, Application for Naturalisation, to include a new gender option, marked as 'X' and defined as 'Another Gender Identity'. 

Immediate Implementation

Effective April 1, 2024, applicants filling out Form N-400 will have the option to select 'X' as their gender. The USCIS plans to extend this option to other forms in the near future, ensuring consistency across its documentation.

The addition of a third gender option aligns with efforts by federal and state agencies, including the US Department of State, to accommodate individuals who do not conform to traditional binary gender categories. This move aims to eliminate barriers and ensure accurate identity documentation for all applicants.

Earlier, the absence of a third gender option posed significant administrative challenges for USCIS, particularly when handling documents with genders other than male or female. By expanding gender choices, the USCIS aims to streamline its processes and improve service accessibility.

This development builds upon USCIS's previous policy updates, such as allowing applicants to self-select their gender without providing additional documentation. These measures underscore the agency's commitment to facilitating immigration services and promoting inclusivity.

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