Although the global sentiment towards the LGBTQ+ community has improved in recent years, travelers can still experience unique challenges when venturing abroad. Laws, attitudes, customs and religion vary by region as there are many countries who do not recognize the legality of same-sex marriage.

In at least 65 countries it is still considered illegal to be in a same-sex partnership and individuals may face legal implications, or severe punishments. This article will outline plans that should be considered before traveling and safety tips to utilize while abroad.

 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Research Your Destination

  • The U.S. Department of State provides a Traveler’s Checklist with information that is specific to LGBTQ+ travelers.
  • Travelers should pay special attention to local laws and customs in the country that they are traveling to. This will help to make informed decisions and avoid potential risks.

Pack Important Documents

  • Travelers, especially in the LGBTQ+ community should bring copies of important documents to avoid complications while traveling.
    • Legal and health documents (birth certificates, living will, health care directives etc.)
    • Parental or custodial documents for minor children, especially when the child does not share a last name with the traveler.

Transgender Specific Considerations

  • Prior to January of 2025, transgender U.S. citizens had the ability to select X as their gender on a U.S. passport application. This option will no longer be provided; however, the U.S. State Department maintains that passports with an X marker will remain valid until their expiration.
  • It should be noted that some countries do not recognize the X gender marker, and this may also lead to entry restrictions.

Consult PFC Executive Security Operations Concierge (ESOC)

  • ESOC provides Travel Risk Assessments (TRA), which are an essential tool to help clients with their travel preparations. ESOC can research the specific area of travel and provide clients with a detailed breakdown of the potential risks and how to safely mitigate them. Clients can utilize ESOC concierge services 24/7.

While Abroad

Understand and Respect Local Laws and Customs

  • Travelers should keep in mind that they are subject to local laws which may differ from their home country. Even in LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, cultural norms and societal stigmas may pose a significant risk to travelers and cause unnecessary complications.

Be Vigilant

  • When possible, individuals should avoid traveling alone or at night and should use trusted transportation methods.
  • Travelers should also be cautious when sharing gender identity or sexual orientation.
  • Be aware of potential scams or entrapment schemes by criminals looking to target LGBTQ+ individuals and extort them for money.

Know Who to Contact

  • Travelers should have the contact information to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in case of emergency or legal issue. The embassy can provide resources without contacting local authorities.

Current Developments

Destinations

  • While it may seem like many countries and areas are implementing barriers to the LGBTQ+ communities, there are many others which provide more inclusive destinations such as the Netherlands, Malta, New Zealand, and many others. More information on friendly destinations can be found here.
  • According to the Gay Travel Index 2025, countries such as Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium moved up in rank of friendliness compared to 2024.
  • According to equaldex, countries such as Hungary and Trinidad and Tobago have implemented restrictions regarding the LGBTQ+ community. However, countries such as Brazil and Italy have recently implemented laws/regulations in support of the LGBTQ+ community.

 

Although LGBTQ+ individuals may encounter unique challenges, preparation and situational awareness can provide a safe and positive experience while abroad. ESOC’s travel risk assessment services are a beneficial tool that can be leveraged to help ease travel concerns among the LGBTQ+ community.