February 5, 2025: U.S. immigration documents must indicate biological sex of male or female FAQ
Presidential Executive Order Regarding Gender Ideology
President Trump issued an on Jan. 20, 2025, requiring, among other things,  that federal agencies make changes so that U.S. government-issued identification documents, including passports, , and , reflect the holder’s “sex” not “gender, ” and referring to “sex” as “an individual’s immutable biological classification as either male or female” and not as one’s gender identity. The order provides that “[i]t is the policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female.”
See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) below for more information. FAQs are based on the currently available information in and related to the presidential action.
Frequently Asked Questions
The order took effect on Jan. 20, 2025.
It applies to all individuals applying for U.S. immigration documents, including foreign nationals requesting visas or permanent residency “green cards.” It also applies to U.S. citizens including those applying for passports.
Possibly. If a U.S. visa indicates anything other than “M” or “F” under “Sex” (e.g., “X”), it is unclear if the U.S. government will remain valid for entry into the U.S. Contact ISSS if your visa indicates anything other than “M” or “F” and you intend to travel internationally so that ISSS can advise on any updated government guidance. The U.S. Department of State may require you to apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad.
The U.S. government's policy on issuing visas for such passports remains unclear. Contact ISSS before international travel for updates on U.S. government guidance.
The text of the executive order is posted on the White House website in the “Executive Actions” section under “Presidential Actions.”
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
We want you to feel supported, safe, and comfortable during your time at ¶¶Ňő¶ĚĘÓƵ Boulder and in the United States. If you need to talk or have any questions, we are here for you. ISSS offers walk-in and remote advising. You can also reach us via our general email account isss@colorado.edu or by phone at 303-492-8057 during normal office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For our sponsored students, ISSS offers specific walk-in and remote advising and our Sponsored Student Advising team can be reached directly at sponsoredadvising@colorado.edu.
Campus Resources
ISSS wants you to know you can always talk to us or use the other resources on campus. Here are some resources we recommend:
- Students: Use our friendly campus counseling services to talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive to talk to.
- Faculty and Staff: Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program to set up a time to chat with a trained counselor.
We are glad that you have chosen to be a part of the ¶¶Ňő¶ĚĘÓƵ Boulder community. ISSS is here to assist you so please reach out to us if you need anything.