Denmark and Finland Revise Travel Advice for Transgender Individuals Heading to the US

In recent weeks, Denmark and Finland have updated their travel advisories for transgender individuals planning to visit the United States. This action places them among a select group of European countries that are providing precautionary guidance to travelers due to reports of challenges faced at US borders.

Danish Advisory Highlights Documentation Concerns

Denmark's foreign ministry announced this week that transgender travelers should reach out to the US embassy in Copenhagen prior to their departure. The aim is to ensure that there are no complications arising from travel documents. This updated guidance comes in light of changing policies within the US, particularly following former President Donald Trump’s efforts to reverse rights for transgender and non-binary individuals. Notably, the US now officially recognizes only two genders and has enacted executive orders that restrict the rights of transgender individuals, particularly regarding military service and access to sports and gender-transition procedures for minors.

The Danish advisory mentions that the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) form restricts choices to male or female, conflicting with Danish law, which permits an 'X' gender designation. The advisory states, “If your passport has the gender designation X or you have changed gender, it is recommended to contact the US embassy prior to travel for guidance on how to proceed.”

Despite this precautionary measure, officials noted that no Danish citizens have been refused entry or detained at US borders since the Trump administration began these policy shifts. However, concerns persist within the LGBT+ community. Susanne Branner Jespersen from LGBT+ Danmark emphasized the apprehension over possible encounters that could lead to discomfort or denial of entry at US airports.

Finnish Advisory Addresses Similar Issues

Following Denmark's example, Finland also revised its travel advisory for transgender individuals, highlighting that those whose current gender on their passports differs from their sex assigned at birth could face entry challenges when traveling to the US. This update was made in mid-March and echoes the sentiments expressed by Danish authorities.

Wider European Response to US Entry Requirements

In addition to Denmark and Finland, Germany has also issued a travel advisory emphasizing similar precautions. The advisory arose from reports of three German citizens being detained at the US border, prompting the government to clarify that having a visa or entry waiver does not guarantee entry into the United States. A spokesperson for the foreign ministry reiterated that the ultimate decision regarding entry rests entirely with US border authorities.

The UK has also adjusted its travel advisory, which warns that travelers violating US entry rules may face arrest or detention. Reports surfaced earlier this month regarding a British tourist who spent ten days in detainment after attempting to enter the US on a tourist visa without having applied for a working visa.

As European nations navigate these recent shifts in US border policy and their implications for transgender travelers, the emphasis on clear guidance reflects ongoing concerns over safety and treatment at the hands of US authorities. The situation continues to evolve, and travelers are advised to stay informed of their rights and the recommendations from their respective countries before embarking on journeys to the United States.