Argentina introduces a new ID for nonbinary individuals

On Wednesday, Argentina’s President Alberto Fernandez revealed a new National Identity Document (DNI) for nonbinary citizens.

The DNI aims to uphold the right to gender identity for individuals who do not identify as strictly male or female, according to the president.

“There are more identities beyond just man and woman that deserve respect,” Fernandez stated during a press briefing at the Casa Rosada Museum in Buenos Aires.

The updated document introduces the gender-neutral term “x” in the gender field on revised DNIs and passports.

Fernandez expressed that there are countless ways to love, be loved, and find happiness.

“Why does the State need to know its citizens’ sexual orientation?” he questioned, acknowledging the distinction between gender identity and sexual orientation.

During the event, Minister of Women, Gender, and Diversity Elizabeth Gómez Alcorta, Interior Minister Eduardo De Pedro, and President Fernandez presented the first three nonbinary identity documents.

Gómez Alcorta stated that the introduction of the nonbinary DNI is “a step toward creating a more equal and inclusive society.”

As announced by Argentina’s presidential office, the country is the first in Latin America to offer an alternative gender option on the DNI.

The new policy aligns with similar changes to identity documents in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, according to the statement.

The US State Department recently announced its efforts to include a nonbinary gender option on passports.

Argentine citizens can update their identification documents at the National Registry of Persons or any Civil Registries office by presenting their birth certificate and current DNI.

Foreign residents in Argentina can update their ID at the National Migration Office.