U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a new third gender option labeled “X” (meaning “Another Gender Identity”) on Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. This is a significant update, as Form N-400 becomes the first USCIS application to offer a gender selection beyond the traditional “Male (M)” and “Female (F)” options.
What’s New on the Form N-400?
Starting with the April 1, 2024 edition, all applicants filing for U.S. citizenship using Form N-400 will have access to the “X” gender option. This new gender designation will also appear on the Certificate of Naturalization issued upon approval.
No Supporting Documents Required for Gender Selection
Applicants who choose the “X” option on their Form N-400 do not need to submit additional supporting documents to validate their gender choice. USCIS has clarified that this selection is independent of other identification documents. Therefore, applicants can select “X” on Form N-400 even if their birth certificate, passport, or state-issued driver’s license lists a different gender.
How to Update Gender to “X” on Pending N-400 Applications
If you already have a Form N-400 application pending and wish to update your gender selection to “X,” you can make this change by submitting a written request to USCIS. Here’s how:
- For Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Citizenship Interview: If you’re responding to an RFE or attending your citizenship interview, you can include a letter explaining your request to update your gender selection.
- For Applicants with Online Accounts: If you have a USCIS online account, upload your letter as new evidence to your pending application.
- If You Don’t Have an Online Account: Email your request to USCIS at USCIS-updategenderinfo@uscis.dhs.gov.
This update reflects USCIS’s commitment to a more inclusive and accessible immigration process for all applicants. For further guidance on completing Form N-400 with the new gender option, visit Law and Visas.
