TN NAFTA

TN Visa: U.S. Work Visa for Canadian and Mexican Professionals

The TN visa allows qualified professionals from Canada and Mexico to work in the U.S. under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as NAFTA. If you’re a Canadian or Mexican professional seeking employment in the U.S., or a U.S. employer looking to hire international talent, The Dhanani Law Firm is here to help. With over 25 years of experience in immigration law, we specialize in navigating the TN visa process, ensuring that your application is smooth and successful.

What Is the TN Visa?

The TN visa is a non-immigrant work visa specifically for Canadian and Mexican citizens in certain professional occupations. Unlike other U.S. work visas, the TN visa offers a fast and streamlined application process and can be renewed indefinitely, making it an attractive option for both employers and employees.

The TN visa covers a wide range of professions, including but not limited to:

  • Accountants
  • Engineers
  • Lawyers
  • Pharmacists
  • Scientists
  • Teachers
  • Computer Systems Analysts

For a full list of eligible professions, consult the U.S. Department of State’s TN visa occupations list, or speak with our firm to confirm your eligibility.

Who Qualifies for the TN Visa?

To qualify for a TN visa, both the applicant and the employer must meet specific requirements:

Applicant Requirements:

  • Citizenship: You must be a citizen of either Canada or Mexico.
  • Qualifying Profession: Your job offer must be in one of the professional categories listed under the USMCA agreement.
  • Educational or Professional Credentials: You must have the necessary qualifications, including degrees, certifications, or relevant work experience, as required for the specific profession.
  • Job job must require a professional in your field of expertise, and you must be employed in that professional capacity.

Employer Requirements:

  • U.S.-Based Employer: The employer must be a legitimate U.S. company offering the position that requires a NAFTA professional.
  • Employment in a Professional Capacity: The job must involve work that requires specialized knowledge or training, consistent with the applicant’s qualifications.
  • Offer: You must have a valid, prearranged job offer from a U.S. employer. The

TN Visa Application Process

The TN visa process differs slightly for Canadian and Mexican citizens:

For Canadian Citizens:

  • No Visa Required: Canadians do not need to apply for a formal visa at a U.S. consulate. Instead, they can apply for TN status directly at a U.S. port of entry, such as an airport or land border crossing. Applicants will need to provide proof of Canadian citizenship, a letter from their U.S. employer detailing the job offer and qualifications, and evidence of their professional credentials.

For Mexican Citizens:

Visa Required: Mexican citizens must apply for the TN visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. Once approved, they can enter the U.S. under TN status and begin work. The application process involves submitting the necessary documentation, attending an interview, and presenting evidence of professional qualifications.

Benefits of the TN Visa

  1. The TN visa offers several advantages for both employees and employers:

    • No Annual Cap: Unlike other U.S. work visas such as the H-1B, the TN visa has no annual limit, allowing eligible applicants to apply year-round.
    • Fast Processing: Canadian applicants can often obtain TN status the same day at the border, while Mexican citizens typically experience faster processing than many other visa types.
    • Indefinite Renewals: TN visas are initially granted for up to 3 years but can be renewed indefinitely, allowing professionals to maintain their status long-term.
    • No Labor Condition Application: Unlike H-1B visas, the TN visa does not require a Labor Condition Application (LCA), making it simpler and faster for employers to hire qualified Canadian or Mexican professionals.
    • Family Benefits: TN visa holders can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the U.S. under TD status. Although TD dependents cannot work, they can study in the U.S.

How The Dhanani Law Firm Can Help You

At The Dhanani Law Firm, we provide comprehensive support to both U.S. employers and Canadian or Mexican professionals seeking TN visa status. With over 25 years of experience, we are committed to ensuring your application meets all requirements and is positioned for success.

For Employers:

  • Eligibility Assessment: We help U.S. employers assess whether their job offers qualify under the TN visa program and assist in determining if a candidate’s professional credentials meet the visa requirements.
  • Application Preparation: We assist employers in preparing the necessary documentation, including drafting the employer support letter that outlines the job offer, duties, and qualifications.

For Canadian and Mexican Professionals:

  • Document Review: We ensure that your professional credentials, job offer, and supporting documents are complete and meet TN visa standards.
  • Border/Consular Guidance: For Canadian applicants, we provide step-by-step instructions for applying at the border or airport. For Mexican citizens, we guide you through the consular process, from gathering documents to preparing for interviews.
  • Renewals and Extensions: We help you renew your TN visa or extend your stay, ensuring that all paperwork is filed accurately and on time.

Why Choose The Dhanani Law Firm?

With over 25 years of experience in immigration law, The Dhanani Law Firm has helped countless professionals and employers navigate the complexities of the TN visa process. We understand the specific challenges and opportunities that come with the TN visa and are committed to providing personalized, strategic support to ensure the success of your application. Whether you’re an employer seeking international talent or a professional looking to advance your career in the U.S., we are here to guide you through every step.

Start Your TN Visa Process Today

Ready to take the next step in your career? Schedule a consultation with The Dhanani Law Firm today and let us help you navigate the TN visa process with confidence.