TN Visas

The TN visa is a special non-immigrant visa classification that allows citizens of Mexico and Canada to work in the United States in certain professional occupations. The TN visa is part of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), previously known as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which facilitates trade and economic relationships between the three countries. This visa category allows qualified individuals to enter the U.S. for temporary work in a designated professional capacity without the need for more complex work visas like the H-1B.

Who Qualifies for a TN Visa?

TN visas are available exclusively to citizens of Mexico and Canada. However, it’s important to distinguish that while Canadian and Mexican nationals are both eligible, the application process is slightly different for citizens of each country.

  • Canadian Citizens: Generally, Canadian nationals have a more streamlined process. They can apply directly at the port of entry, such as a U.S. border crossing or a U.S. airport pre-clearance facility. No prior petition to U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is required for Canadians.
  • Mexican Citizens: Mexican citizens must apply for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy before entering the United States. They are required to obtain visa approval before they can begin working under TN status.

The key to qualifying for a TN visa is that the applicant must be coming to work in a profession that is listed in the USMCA’s annex of designated occupations. These occupations are largely specialized and require professional qualifications.

Eligible Occupations for TN Visas

The TN visa category only applies to certain professional occupations, including but not limited to:

  • Accountants
  • Engineers
  • Lawyers
  • Scientists (Biologists, Chemists)
  • Teachers (at the university level)
  • Pharmacists
  • Medical Professionals (nurses, physicians)

A full list of eligible occupations is maintained under the USMCA, and applicants must be able to demonstrate their qualifications for the position they are seeking.

Requirements for TN Visa Applicants

To qualify for a TN visa, applicants must meet several specific requirements, which differ slightly between Canadian and Mexican nationals. Below are the key requirements common to all applicants:

  1. Nationality Requirement

    Applicants must be citizens of either Canada or Mexico. Permanent residents of these countries are not eligible for the TN visa.

  2. Professional Qualification

    Applicants must be seeking employment in one of the designated professional occupations listed in the USMCA. They must also have the required educational credentials, licensure, or experience that the job demands.

    • Educational Credentials: Most TN visa-eligible professions require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. In some cases, relevant experience and professional certifications can substitute for formal education.

  3. Job Offer from a U. S. Employer

    Applicants must have a pre-arranged job offer from a U.S. employer. The job must be a professional role that aligns with the TN visa-eligible occupations, and the role must require the specific qualifications of the applicant. The employment must be temporary in nature, though the TN visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the employment remains non-permanent.

  4. Documentation and Proof

    Applicants must provide evidence that they meet the qualifications for the TN visa. This includes:

    • A detailed letter from the prospective U.S. employer outlining the nature of the job, the professional category under which the job falls, the applicant’s qualifications, and the length of employment.
    • Copies of diplomas, degrees, certificates, or licenses showing the applicant’s qualifications.
    • Proof of citizenship (passport or other national ID).
    • Any additional documentation required for the specific occupation, such as licenses for medical professionals or engineers.

  5. Intention to Return to Home Country

    Although the TN visa allows for multiple renewals, it is classified as a non-immigrant visa. Applicants must demonstrate that they have no intention of permanently residing in the United States. However, unlike some other non-immigrant visas, TN applicants are not required to maintain a foreign residence while working in the U.S.

Application Process

The TN visa application process varies slightly between Mexican and Canadian citizens.

  • For Canadian Citizens: Canadian nationals can apply for TN status directly at the U.S. port of entry (such as a border crossing or U.S. pre-clearance facility) or a U.S. airport with pre-clearance. The applicant needs to present the necessary documentation, including proof of Canadian citizenship, a job offer letter, and evidence of qualifications.
  • For Mexican Citizens: Mexican citizens must first obtain a TN visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. They will need to submit the required documentation and schedule an interview. Once the visa is granted, they may enter the U.S. and begin working in the approved position.

Duration and Renewal

The TN visa is initially granted for up to three years, but it can be extended indefinitely in three-year increments as long as the applicant continues working in a qualifying profession for a U.S. employer. There is no maximum number of times the TN visa can be renewed, making it a flexible option for Canadian and Mexican professionals who need to work temporarily in the U.S.

Benefits of the TN Visa

  • No Annual Cap: Unlike the H-1B visa, which has an annual cap, there is no numerical limit to the number of TN visas issued each year.
  • Quick Processing: The TN visa can be obtained relatively quickly, particularly for Canadian nationals who can apply at the border and get immediate approval.
  • Cost-Effective: The TN visa is generally less expensive than other work visas since it does not require the costly Labor Condition Application (LCA) or other petition filing fees associated with visas like the H-1B.

What are some of the problems and issues encountered by applicants for TN visas?

There has been a significant increase in both the refusal rate and the number of TN visa refusals. In 2022, the refusal rate was 8.76%, but in 2023, it doubled to 17.57%, resulting in thousands of additional refusals. Several factors contribute to this trend, including skeptical consuls, generic job descriptions and language barriers. Suspicion may also arise when the applicant is offered a low salary or works in a broad or ill-defined occupation (such as a management consultant), or if the applicant has changed their status in the U. S. Moreover, a lack of strong ties to their home country can also be a valid reason for denial.

How does White and Associates help?

These denials can be avoided with better preparation for the interview. We can help you prepare for your visa interview, allay your concerns and deal with difficult questions. We can help you prepare supporting documentation. Even if you are refused, you can challenge the decision or reapply. Feel free to contact us to discuss your situation.