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TN Visas: For Canadian and Mexican citizens working in specific professional roles under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA).

TN Visa for Canadian and Mexican Professionals

Under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens can work in the U.S. in certain professional occupations through the TN visa classification. This visa offers a streamlined path for temporary employment without the need for labor certification or a U.S. visa (for Canadians).

Key Features

  • Eligibility: Must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico with a job offer in a qualifying profession.
  • Duration: Valid for up to 3 years (Canada) or 1 year (Mexico), with renewals available.
  • Temporary stay only: Applicants must intend to return home after the assignment.
  • No self-employment allowed
  • No foreign residence requirement (for Canadians).

Application Process

For Canadians

  • No visa needed. Apply directly at a U.S. port of entry with: 
    • Proof of citizenship
    • Employer letter
    • Evidence of qualifications
  • Receive I-94 on approval, valid for multiple entries.

For Mexicans

  • Visa required. Apply at a U.S. consulate with:
    • Passport
    • Employer letter
    • Form I-129 (if applying from within the U.S.)
    • Proof of qualifications

Changing Employers or Status

  • A new petition (Form I-129) must be filed before starting work with a new employer.
  • Transfers within the same company (same duties) do not require a new application.

Required Documents

  • Proof of citizenship(Canada or Mexico)
  • Employer letter detailing job title, duties, duration, and compensation
  • Educational credentials matching a listed TN profession
    • Foreign degrees require evaluation by a credentialing service

TD Status for Family Members

  • Spouses and children under 21 can enter in TD status (no work permitted).
  • Canadians do not need a TD visa; Mexicans must apply at a consulate.

Common TN Professions

  • Engineers, Scientists, Accountants, Architects
  • Nurses, Pharmacists, Dentists, Physicians (teaching/research)
  • Computer Systems Analysts, University Professors, Economists

Full list of eligible TN professions available upon request.

We Can Help

We assist Canadian and Mexican professionals with TN applications, employer changes, extensions, and long-term immigration planning.

Contact us to assess your eligibility or get started today.