The TN visa is a nonimmigrant visa that is ideal for individuals who are citizens of either Canada or Mexico and seek to enter the United States to work in a professional capacity on a temporary basis. The TN or TN-1 visa was created as a result of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which now exists in modified form as the United States-Canada-Mexico Free Trade Agreement (USMCA).
TN's have advantages over other types of visas depending on your particular needs:
- TN's can be obtained faster than other visas
- TN's are suitable for employers that need to quickly hire a qualifying employee
- TN's are valid for up to 3 years and can be renewed indefinitely
- TN's can be obtained at the border
- Spouse and dependents can be admitted with the TN visa holder (and receive a TD visa)
Disadvantages of the TN Visa include:
- TN's are only valid for specified professional occupations
- TN spouses and dependents cannot lawfully work in the US
- TN visas are nonimmigrant visas and this can negatively affect individuals who later seek lawful permanent resident status in the US through a green card
Canadian and Mexican citizens qualify for the TN visa. Additionally, the job/business activity of the applicant must be approved. You must be qualified to work in the profession and have a job offer from a US employer that is temporary in nature (up to the maximum authorized 3 year period).
Contact Immigration INTL Law for a free 30-minute consultation to start the TN visa application process.
1. What is a TN visa, and who qualifies for it?
The TN visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for citizens of Canada and Mexico who wish to work in the United States in a professional capacity on a temporary basis. To qualify, the applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer in an approved profession and meet the qualifications for that role.
2. How long is a TN visa valid, and can it be renewed?
A TN visa is valid for up to three years and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the employment remains temporary and continues to meet the visa requirements.
3. What are the advantages of the TN visa compared to other visa types?
- TN visas can be obtained faster than many other visa types.
- They are ideal for employers needing to quickly hire a qualified employee.
- The application process can be completed at the border for Canadian applicants.
- Spouses and dependents can accompany the TN visa holder with TD visas.
4. Are there any limitations or disadvantages of the TN visa?
Yes, there are a few:
- TN visas are restricted to specific professional occupations.
- Spouses and dependents cannot work in the U.S. under TD visas.
- Since TN visas are nonimmigrant visas, they may complicate the process for individuals seeking to transition to permanent residency through a green card.
5. How do I apply for a TN visa?
To apply for a TN visa, you must:
- Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico.
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a qualifying professional occupation.
Provide evidence of your qualifications and that the job is temporary in nature (up to 3 years).
Canadian citizens can apply directly at the border or through a U.S. consulate, while Mexican citizens must obtain a TN visa at a U.S. consulate before entering the U.S.