Overview
TN Visas
N Visas allow Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the United States temporarily in certain qualifying professions, such as architects, engineers, accountants, and more. The complete list of available professions is listed below.
To qualify for a TN visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a qualifying profession, possess the necessary education and experience for the position, and intend to work in the United States temporarily only.
TN visas do not provide a direct pathway to permanent residence, but TN visa holders may be eligible to apply for a green card if they otherwise meet the necessary eligibility requirements.The visas are classified as follows:
- TN-1 Visas for Canadian citizens
- TN-2 Visas for Mexican citizens
Permanent residents who are not yet citizens of Canada or Mexico do not qualify to work as a USMCA professional.
TD Visas
TD visas are available to dependents (spouses and children under the age of 21) of TN visa holders. They allow the dependents of TN visa holders to accompany them to the United States while they are working temporarily. TD visa holders are not authorized to work in the United States, but they may study while in the U.S.
TN Visa Benefits
The B-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows individuals to enter the United States for a temporary stay to engage in business activities of a commercial or professional nature. Some of the main benefits of a B-1 Visa include:
- Obtaining a TN Visa allows you to live and work in the United States on a temporary basis, usually up to 3 years at a time
- There is no cap on the number of TN Visas issued per year
- Relatively fast and straightforward application process
- It can be renewed indefinitely
- Spouses and children may accompany the professional to the U.S.
Eligible Professions
Below is a list of all the professions listed by USMCA, along with their requirements
These are general requirements for a U.S. business visitor visa, and the specific requirements may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the country in which you are applying. If you are interested in obtaining a business visitor visa, it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or a U.S. embassy or consulate to determine your eligibility and the specific requirements that apply to your situation.
TN Visa Requirements
If you are looking to obtain a TN work permit for a professional, you will need to provide evidence that the position to be filled requires a professional worker and that the foreign worker has the necessary qualifications and experience to fill the role. In particular, you need evidence that:
- The profession qualifies under USMCA regulations
- The prospective position in the US requires a professional
- You have a prearranged full-time or part-time job offer in the US
- You have the qualifications (degree and/or license) to practice in the profession in question.
With some exceptions, each profession requires a bachelor’s degree as an entry-level requirement. If a bachelor’s is needed, individual work experience cannot replace that degree. In some jobs, an alternative to a bachelor’s degree is listed. For some occupations, experience is required in addition to the degree. - Self-employment is not permitted.
- If your foreign degree was obtained outside of Canada, the U.S. or Mexico, you will need to provide a credential evaluation showing equivalence to at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
If you’re a Canadian Citizen, you are not required to apply for a TN Visa at a US consulate, and you may apply at the border upon entry. You must, however, provide proof of Canadian citizenship, a letter from your prospective employer detailing the purpose of employment, length of stay and how you meet the requirements and qualify for the position.
TN Visa Application Process
To apply for a TN Visa, you will need to follow the following steps:
- Obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer in a qualifying profession
- Gather all the supporting evidence and apply for your TN status either at the border (if Canadian) or at the consulate (if Mexican).
- In some cases, the employer may also file with the USCIS first.
- If you are approved, you may enter the U.S. for the approved period on a TN status, and you may work for the employer in the occupation you were approved for.
Even though an individual can make a TN Visa application independently, the application process can be complex, taxing, and very stressful for all parties involved. Even small mistakes can lead to a refusal or denial.
Contact a Motivus TN Visa lawyer today to verify your qualifications and review your application materials. Hiring an experienced TN Visa lawyer offers peace of mind, comfort, and reassurance during the application process. Once retained, we will provide the proper guidance and relief throughout the process at no additional charge.
TN Visa Processing Times
The processing time for a TN Visa can vary depending on the volume of applications and the specific border or consulate where you apply. However, this type of visa is considered one of the fastest ways for Canadians and Mexicans to get a US work visa.