Depending on destination and culture, LGBTQIA+ travellers may encounter unique challenges abroad, including harassment, intimidation, discrimination, barriers to medical and law enforcement assistance, incarceration, and physical violence. However, support and resources are available before, during, and after your travels.

Research laws before travelling​

Because LGBTQIA+-related laws vary widely across countries, it’s imperative that you research the legal protections, if any, available to the LGBTQIA+ community. Keep in mind that laws change, and many countries have complex legal landscapes. For example, some countries have laws criminalising homosexuality that, even if rarely enforced, can cause harm to LGBTQIA+ persons. Other countries have decriminalised homosexuality, but their governments have yet to implement any protections against discrimination.

Legal resources

Cultural resources

Out Abroad resources

 

Considerations for transgender travellers

Transgender travellers may experience difficulties entering a country if their identification documents do not match their current presentation. You can consider changing your gender designation on your identity documents, speak to a medical professional or therapist about obtaining a letter that provides explanations (translated into the local language, if necessary), or prepare a short, direct statement to provide to border officials and law enforcement officers, if asked. Again, disclosing your identity is a very personal decision and may not always be safe.

 

Other resources