TN Visas

A Trade NAFTA (TN) visa is a great option for citizens of Canada and Mexico seeking temporary entry into the United States to engage in business activities at a professional level. The TN visa requires that applicants:

-Be Canadian or Mexican citizens

-Be coming to work in specifically enumerated professions in Appendix 1603.D.1 of the regulations

-Be coming to work in positions requiring a NAFTA professional

-Have an offer of employment (full or part-time) with a U.S. employer

-Possess the education and/or experience qualifications for the profession

Eligibility Criteria for TN Visa Applicants

-Proof of Citizenship

-A legitimate offer of employment from a US employer

Is Visa Required? 

The TN visa applicants are not required to obtain prior USCIS approval of a petition; however, while citizens of Canada are visa exempt, the citizens of Mexico are not.  Thus, nationals of Mexico should apply for a TN visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico with documentation noted above.

If admitted by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer, the TN professional will typically be admitted for up to three years and is authorized to work in TN status.

Family Members of TN Professionals

TD status is granted to any family members of the TN professional.  The dependents do not have to be citizens of Mexico or Canada but they must demonstrate the appropriate family relationship to the TN professional.  TD status does not permit employment.