Home/Policy/USCIS Updates Policy to Recognize Two Biological Sexes

USCIS Updates Policy to Recognize Two Biological Sexes

CategoriesPolicy
Signals
Neutral sentiment
Medium impact
USCIS
Proposed rule
Summary

Informational only, not legal advice. Confirm deadlines on the official notice or with a qualified professional.

USCIS updated its Policy Manual to clarify that the agency only recognizes two biological sexes—male and female—in immigration applications and processing. This change affects how applicants must list their sex on forms and documents submitted to USCIS. The policy update reflects a shift in how the agency categorizes applicants.
Full official notice
USCIS

Authoritative text and filing details are always on the publisher’s site.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that it only recognizes two biological sexes, male and female.

Visa bulletin
May 2026 →

Final action, filing & DV tables

Email digest

We're wiring up a weekly email. The signup form will live here once delivery is connected. Until then, read what we plan to include using the link below.

Weekly digest details →
Explore
All visa categories →

Guides, tools, and coverage for every visa type.

Full feed
All updates by category →

Chronological lists grouped by work, study, green card, policy, and more.

Stats
Total indexed414
Open for comment16
Positive tone78
Negative tone89
Policy

Latest updates on Policy.

All Policy updates →