Recently, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the inclusion of a third gender option, “X,” signifying “Another Gender Identity,” on Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This change is a significant step toward recognizing and accommodating the diverse identities of individuals going through the immigration system. Read on to learn more about the recent USCIS announcement and its implications.
What Changes Were Made to Form N-400?
USCIS has revised Form N-400 to include an “X” gender option, in addition to the traditional “Male” and “Female” choices, to cater to individuals who identify outside these binary options.
This revision, effective from April 1, 2024, marks the first time a USCIS form has offered an alternative gender identity option. This adjustment aligns with updates to the USCIS Policy Manual, reflecting a broader initiative to incorporate third-gender options across forthcoming USCIS forms.
How Can Applicants Utilize the New Gender Option?
For those filing Form N-400 on or after April 1, 2024, the “X” gender option will be immediately available. Applicants with pending applications submitted before this date can also request to update their gender. This includes responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE), or during an interview, through an online account, or via email for those without online access. However, changes to other USCIS-issued documents, like the Naturalization Certificate, await further form revisions to incorporate the “X” option.
What Does This Mean for Future USCIS Applications?
Currently, the “X” gender option is exclusive to Form N-400. USCIS plans to extend this option to additional forms, enhancing the inclusivity of the immigration process. Applicants desiring to select or update to the “X” gender on other forms or documents must wait for these revisions.
Notably, no supporting documentation is required to choose or change to the “X” gender on Form N-400, emphasizing a simplified and respectful approach to gender identity.
How Will This Affect Social Security Records?
Applicants selecting the “X” gender option might need to update their Social Security records accordingly. As the Social Security Administration adapts its systems to recognize the “X” gender, this serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of federal records and the evolving recognition of gender identities.
Why Is This Update Significant?
This modification by USCIS is more than administrative; it represents a significant stride toward dismantling barriers faced by individuals whose identities transcend traditional gender binaries.
This update ultimately signifies progress in making the immigration process more inclusive, reflecting ongoing efforts to address and reduce undue burdens for all applicants.
