In an historic step for Quebec, as of Thursday, it is now much easier for trans people in the province to change their gender on official documents.

In the past, one could only change their gender if they had sex reassignment surgery, but that is no longer the case.

The new regulations mean medical requirements and doctors’ notes are no longer necessary.

The Quebec government is proud of the change.

“It's in effect today, it's really good news,” said Quebec Justice Minister Stephanie Vallee.

The new rules are a big step forward, said McGill law professor Robert Leckey.

“Instead of having a medical approach, all you need to do is a solemn declaration, and that has to be supported by someone who's known you for 12 months, who confirms you understand the seriousness of what you're doing,” said Leckey.

Issues remain, said Leckey, for example the new regulations only apply to Canadian citizens.

“You could be a refugee recognized that you've been persecuted for being trans and the rules wouldn't allow you to get the change of sex designation you need to go about your life,” he said.

Nonetheless the changes are being applauded by many other groups, like Gender Creative Kids Canada, a group that supports transgender youth and their families.

“We're thrilled that this change has finally come about it’s come about as a results of many, many, many years of work be transgender activists in Montreal and other parts of the province,” said Kimberley Manning, a board member of the organization.

Still, the group said transgender minors should also be allowed to change their documents.

“This puts young people at incredible risk – who have on their passport, on their school identification papers – the wrong sex marker, and basically exposes them to the possibility of both discrimination and violence.

Manning said including minors would make their lives much easier and allow them to fully live their lives sooner.

Concordia's Centre for Gender Advocacy is holding an information session on Oct, 5 to help trans people start to change their gender status on all of their official provincial documents.