Experienced Guidance For Those Seeking TN Visas
TN visas are a niche type of visa that allows you, your spouse and dependents to live and work in the United States on a temporary basis. Qualifying and applying for this type of visa can be complicated. It’s wise to seek legal counsel from an experienced immigration lawyer before applying.
At ERM Immigration Law, PLLC, we are well-versed in the nuances of TN visas. We devote our practice exclusively to immigration law, including employment-based visas. When you work with us, you can expect accurate, timely guidance on your options for pursuing professional employment opportunities in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions About TN Visas For Canadian And Mexican Workers And Families
We welcome the opportunity to answer your questions about TN visas in a personalized way. Do any of the questions below line up with your concerns?
Is the TN visa associated with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)?
This was previously the case when NAFTA existed. Today, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has taken its place. The TN visa program continues under the new agreement.
What is the purpose of the TN visa?
TN visas allow Canadian and Mexican workers to fill prearranged employment positions in the U.S. for a limited time. Actual possession of the visa is optional for some Canadian workers and their family members, but it is required for Mexican workers.
Is self-employment an option with a TN visa?
No. You must have a letter with a job offer or a contract from an employer doing business in the U.S.
What are some requirements for taking advantage of this opportunity?
As a TN applicant, you must be a Canadian or Mexican citizen. Your profession should be on the list of applicable professions. The position in the U.S. requires a USMCA/TN visa-qualifying professional.
How does the TN visa application process work?
Applications are generally done online. An applicant should have the following documents during and after applying: a passport, a nonimmigrant visa application, payment of a $185 nonrefundable application fee, a photo, a contract or letter from an employer in the U.S., and documentation of qualifications, such as educational records and/or a professional license. An interview may also be required.
How long can you stay in the U.S. on a TN visa?
A TN visa grants you the ability to live and work in the U.S. for an initial period of three years. You can apply for an extension, provided you file the appropriate paperwork before your visa expires. Our lawyers can help you with this process.
Who qualifies for a TN visa?
The nonimmigrant NAFTA professional (TN) visa was created pursuant to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) between the U.S., Mexico and Canada. To qualify for a TN visa, you must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico, You must also have employment lined up in a professional position in the United States. In addition, you must have the appropriate credentials for your position in the U.S., which may range from a certain type of college degree to a state/provincial license or a post-secondary diploma and several years of experience.
Our attorneys can evaluate whether you meet all the qualifications for a TN visa and help you prepare a thorough application, setting you on the strongest footing for success. According to the Code of Federal Regulations, the following are qualifying professions:
TN Visas For General Professions:
- Accountant
- Architect
- Computer Systems Analyst (CSA)
- Computer Engineer (and Related IT Professions)
- Disaster Relief Insurance Claims Adjuster
- Economist
- Engineer
- Financial / Market Analyst
- Forester
- Graphic Designer
- Hotel Manager
- Industrial Designer
- Interior Designer
- Land Surveyor
- Landscape Architect
- Lawyer (including Notary in Quebec)
- Librarian
- Management Consultant
- Mathematician
- Research Assistant
- Scientific Technician / Technologist
- Social Worker
- Statistician
- Sylviculturist (Forest & Conservation Technician)
- Technical Publications Writer
- Urban Planner / Geographer
- Vocational Counselor
TN Visas For Medical Professions:
- Dentist
- Dietitian
- Medical Laboratory Technologist
- Nutritionist
- Occupational Therapist
- Pharmacist
- Physical Therapist / Physiotherapist
- Physician (Teaching Position ONLY)
- Psychologist
- Recreational Therapist
- Registered Nurse
- Veterinarian
TN Visas For Scientific Professions:
- Agriculturist / Agronomist
- Animal Breeder
- Animal Scientist
- Apiculturist
- Astronomer
- Biochemist / Biophysicist
- Biologist
- Chemist
- Dairy Scientist
- Entomologist
- Epidemiologist
- Geneticist
- Geologist
- Geochemist
- Geophysicist
- Horticulturist
- Meteorologist
- Pharmacologist
- Physicist
- Plant Breeder
- Poultry Scientist
- Range Manager / Conservationist
- Soil Scientist
- Zoologist / Wildlife Biologist
TN Visas For Teaching Professions:
- College Teacher
- Seminary Teacher
- University Teacher
You may be wondering if your job title must exactly match one of the job titles listed above in order to qualify for a TN visa. The good news is that as long as you have the same education and same working experience as that required for one of the professions above, you may indeed qualify. Talk with our team today to explore the particular options available to you.
Let Us Help You Pursue A TN Visa
We are here to guide you through all stages of the process, minimizing the risk of denials and delays. To get started, simply call 206-745-9241 or reach out to us online. We are based in Seattle, Washington, and represent clients around the globe.