GENDER RECOGNITION: There is a set process for getting an acquired gender ‘legally’ recognised in the United Kingdom.

You would need to make an application to the Gender Recognition Panel.

If the request is successful you would then receive a Gender Recognition Certificate.

There are three (3) different application tracks (called routes) to get the certificate. But, the track (or route) that you choose will depend on your particular situation.

HMCTS have produced a general guide (T455) for all users to read before applying. It may help you decide how to apply for a gender recognition under the Gender Recognition Act 2004.

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Standard Application Track

You should use form T450 to apply to the Gender Recognition Panel through the ‘standard route’. This application track (route) would apply if all these are true for your situation:

• You are at least 18 years old.
• You have already been diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Having a discomfort with your birth gender is the exact definition of gender identity disorder (or transsexualism).
• You have already lived in your acquired gender for at least two (2) years.
• You intend to live in your acquired gender for the rest of your life.

Note: You must use the standard route application if you live in Northern Ireland.

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Alternative Application Track

You should use form T464 to apply to the Gender Recognition Panel using the ‘alternative route’. This application track (route) would apply if all these are true for your situation:

• You are at least 18 years old.
• You have already been diagnosed with gender dysphoria or you had surgery to change your sexual characteristics.
• You live in England, Scotland, or Wales most of the time.
• You intend to live in your acquired gender for the rest of your life.
• You are living in (or have been living in) a protected marriage or a protected civil partnership.
• You lived in your acquired gender for at least six (6) years before the 10th of December 2014. The date threshold is the 16th of December 2014 for Scottish marriages and civil partnerships.

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Protected Characteristics Marriage and Civil Partnership

A protected marriage or civil partnership is one that includes any of the following circumstances, such as:

• One registered under the law of England and Wales.
• A marriage solemnised (or a civil partnership registered) in Scotland.
• A marriage registered under the law of a country or territory outside of the United Kingdom.
• A marriage on UK consular premises or in an armed forces base. It would apply if you elected England, Scotland, or Wales as the relevant part of the United Kingdom.

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Overseas Application Track

You should use form T4535 if you are applying through the overseas route. It is the only method to use if your acquired gender has been ‘legally’ accepted in one of the ‘approved countries or territories‘. You would need to have the legal documents to prove it.

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Applying for a Gender Recognition Certificate

Fill in the most relevant form and send it to the panel with any supporting documents needed for the application.

Gender Recognition Panel
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +44 (0)20 3936 8968
Call charges in the United Kingdom.
PO Box 9300
Leicester
LE1 8DJ

Note: The application fee is £5. Applicants who get certain benefits or get a low income may qualify for help with court fees.

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ALSO IN THIS SECTION

What happens after an Application

You will receive one of three different outcomes after you submit the application and documentation. The guide explains what happens next and how a tribunal follows current legislation.

Extra Help and Advice

Several voluntary organisations offer further information and support (e.g. the Citizens Advice). You can also read through the details in the general guide (T455) or contact a legal adviser.

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