If you’re a citizen of Canada or Mexico with a job offer in the United States, you may be eligible for a special type of visa that allows you to work in the country legally and temporarily. Known as the TN visa, this category was created under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), now updated as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). It was designed to facilitate cross-border employment opportunities for certain professionals, and for many, it provides a straightforward path to legally working in the U.S.
For professionals such as engineers, accountants, teachers, scientists, and even some health care workers, the TN visa offers a faster, more streamlined alternative to traditional work visas. Unlike other employment-based visas, the TN visa process is typically less complicated and does not always require a petition from an employer filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Queens employment immigration lawyer from Monica Saran-Nace, P.C. to learn more about this type of visa and how our legal team can help you obtain one. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Who is Eligible for a TN Visa?
To qualify for a TN visa, you must be a citizen of either Canada or Mexico. Simply being a resident or having dual citizenship does not qualify someone under this category. You also must have a job offer in the United States in one of the approved professional occupations listed under the USMCA guidelines.
In addition to meeting the nationality and occupational requirements, the job must be temporary in nature. That doesn’t mean the job has to be short-term, but rather, there must be no intent to establish permanent residency through this visa. That said, TN visas can be renewed indefinitely, provided you continue to meet all eligibility requirements and your employment remains valid.
Canadian citizens usually have an easier path when applying for a TN visa, as they can apply directly at a U.S. port of entry with the proper documentation. Mexican citizens, however, are required to first obtain a visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate before entering the United States to work.
What Documents Do I Need to Apply?
Whether you’re applying from Canada or Mexico, you will need to present specific documentation that proves your eligibility. This includes proof of citizenship, a detailed job offer letter from a U.S. employer, and evidence of your professional qualifications such as degrees or licenses. The job offer letter should outline the duties of the position, its duration, and how it fits into the list of TN-approved professions.
It’s crucial to make sure all documents are complete and accurate, as even small errors or omissions can result in delays or denials. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can significantly reduce the stress and confusion surrounding the TN visa process.
If you’re a professional from Canada or Mexico and you’ve received a job offer in the U.S., now is the time to explore your options. Contact a Queens immigration lawyer from Monica Saran-Nace, P.C. today to find out how to begin your TN visa journey.
