Introduction to TN Visas

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TN Visas are a type of non-immigrant visa specifically designed for qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens who wish to work in the United States in certain professional occupations. Established under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as NAFTA, TN Visas aim to facilitate trade and promote economic cooperation between the three countries. This visa category allows professionals in various fields, including science, engineering, medicine, and education, to temporarily reside and work in the U.S. without the need for employer sponsorship, making the application process more accessible.

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If you qualify for a TN Visa, you can take advantage of the streamlined application process, which typically requires proof of your professional credentials and a job offer in one of the designated occupations. TN Visa holders are eligible for an initial stay of up to three years. Importantly, the TN Visa can be renewed indefinitely in three-year increments as long as the employment relationship and eligibility criteria remain valid.

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​Canadian Citizens

If you are a Canadian citizen, then you are not required to apply for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate. 

You may establish eligibility for TN classification at the time you seek admission to the United States by presenting required documentation to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at certain CBP-designated U.S. ports of entry or at a designated pre-clearance/pre-flight inspection station. You must provide the following documentation to the CBP officer:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship;

• Letter from your prospective employer detailing items such as the professional capacity in which you will work in the United States, the purpose of your employment, your length of stay, and your educational qualifications; and

• Credentials evaluation (if applicable), together with any applicable fees.
   

Please refer to CBP’s website for additional information and requirements for applying for admission to the United States.  If a CBP officer finds you eligible for admission, you will be admitted as a TN nonimmigrant. 

Alternatively, a prospective TN employer may choose to file on behalf of a Canadian citizen who is outside the United States by submitting Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker to USCIS.  Premium Processing Service is available.

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If USCIS approves Form I-129, you, the prospective worker, may then apply to CBP for admission to the United States as a TN nonimmigrant by providing the following documentation to a CBP Officer at certain CBP-designated U.S. ports of entry or at a designated pre-clearance/pre-flight inspection station:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship; and 

• Approval Notice from USCIS for Form I-129.

In addition, when applying for admission, you should have in your possession a copy of the Form I-129, and all supporting documentation that was submitted to USCIS, to respond to questions about your eligibility.  You should also be prepared to pay any applicable inspection fees at the time you seek admission.  If a CBP officer finds you eligible for admission, you will be admitted as a TN nonimmigrant.

 

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If you fall into one of these categories and meet the educational requirements, you may be eligible to apply for a TN Visa, enabling you to work legally in the United States while enjoying the benefits of a vibrant professional environment. The application process is typically straightforward, allowing you to focus on your career advancement in the U.S.