Federal, the same in every state
Immigration documents (USCIS)
Change detected, under review. An official source this page relies on changed recently. Part of this page may be out of date until we review it.
- Page changed: Federal Register, new documents mentioning gender identity or sex designation (SSA, State, DHS, HHS) (2026-10-07) · #199
- Update your name
- YesAfter your legal name change
- Gender markerThe sex or gender field (M, F, or X) printed on an ID document or stored in an agency's record.
- NoCannot be changed right now
USCIS now issues green cards, work permits, naturalization certificates, and travel documents showing only M or F based on sex at birth, following the January 2025 executive order. Previously self-selected or X markers are no longer honored on new documents. Name changes with a court order are still processed.
- Cost
- Can be waived
Draft from official sources, September 23, 2026. Not yet checked by a person. How we verify
How it works
In 2024 USCIS had begun accepting self-attested gender and an X option on some forms. After Executive Order 14168, USCIS updated its Policy Manual to recognize only two sexes as recorded at birth and applies that across all benefit documents.
If you need to change the name on a green card (Form I-90), work permit (I-765 renewal), or naturalization/citizenship certificate (N-565), file the usual form with a certified court order. Fees apply and can be high; a fee waiver (Form I-912) is available for some forms if you receive means-tested benefits or have low income.
Immigration situations are individual and the stakes are high. Talk to an immigration attorney or Immigration Equality before filing anything that could draw attention to your case.
Steps
Immigration Equality runs a free legal helpline for LGBTQ and HIV-positive immigrants. Filing a replacement document can trigger a review of your status; make sure that is safe in your situation.
Update your name on the right form[1]
- Green card: Form I-90 (replacement), with certified court order.
- Work permit (EAD): file a new I-765 when you next renew, with the court order.
- Naturalization or citizenship certificate: Form N-565, with the court order.
- Check the current fee on each form's USCIS page and whether Form I-912 (fee waiver) applies.
Costs and fee waivers
Can’t afford it? You may not have to pay.[1]
Form I-912 fee waiver is available for some forms (including I-90 and N-565) if you receive a means-tested benefit, your household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines, or you have a financial hardship.