Gay Globe and the Government of Canada (Image: AI / Gay Globe)
The Government of Canada offers a comprehensive guide for LGBTQ+ individuals traveling abroad. It’s crucial to understand that laws and perceptions regarding homosexuality and gender expression vary significantly across countries. In some countries, homosexuality is illegal and may lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty. It’s highly recommended to consult this guide and check country-specific advisories on the Government of Canada’s website before traveling.
Travel Tips for 2ELGBTQI+ Canadians
Before departing, it’s essential to understand the laws and social customs of your destination regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics.
Laws and Customs to Know
- Laws that criminalize same-sex activities and relationships
- Laws that consider individuals as criminals based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics
- Laws related to vagrancy, public nuisance, or public morality that may be used to target 2ELGBTQI+ individuals
Useful Resources
- The State-Sponsored Homophobia Report, Trans Mapping Report, and the Global Sex Laws Map from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association
- Human Rights Watch’s Anti-LGBT Laws Map and Research
- Local 2ELGBTQI+ resources in your destination country
Passports and Gender Identity
- If your passport indicates « X » for your gender identity, some countries may restrict your entry
- It’s recommended to consult travel advisories and warnings for each destination and transit country
Personal Safety
- Be vigilant and aware of your online presence and any publicly accessible content that could disclose information about your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics
- Be cautious of new « friends, » especially those you meet online or through dating apps
Relationships and Services
- Laws regarding 2ELGBTQI+ relationships can vary from country to country
- Healthcare services and institutions may not recognize your relationship or gender identity
Traveling with Children
- Consider carefully whether you are comfortable traveling with your child or letting them travel alone to a destination with different laws and social context than Canada
- Canadian children traveling alone abroad require a consent letter
Adoption and Surrogacy
- 2ELGBTQI+ couples may face discrimination from national child protection authorities
- Research countries with laws allowing 2ELGBTQI+ individuals to adopt a child
If You Need Help
- Contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre for consular assistance when outside Canada.
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