What is the TN Visa?

The TN Visa allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the United States in certain professional roles. This visa was created as part of the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) agreement, and it provides a unique visa category for workers in specific occupations that require a bachelor’s degree or higher. The TN Visa allows temporary employment in the U.S., with the option to renew the visa as long as the individual continues to meet the visa requirements.

To qualify for a TN Visa, the applicant must work in one of the following NAFTA-approved professions, which include:

• Accountants
• Architects
• Engineers
• Graphic designers
• Scientists
• Computer systems analysts
• Teachers
• Medical professionals, such as pharmacists and nurses

The TN Visa is generally issued for a period of up to three years, and you can extend your visa as long as you continue to meet the requirements.

Who Can Apply for the TN Visa?

The TN Visa is available to Canadian and Mexican citizens who are professionals with a job offer from a U.S. employer in an eligible NAFTA profession. Here are the basic requirements for eligibility:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico.
• Profession: Your job must fall under one of the approved NAFTA professions that require at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in education or experience.
• Job Offer: You must have a valid, temporary job offer from a U.S. employer. The job must be in a role that qualifies under the TN Visa guidelines.
• Qualifications: You must possess the required qualifications, such as a degree or relevant work experience, for the position you’re applying for.

If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible to apply for the TN Visa.

How to Apply for a TN Visa

The application process for the TN Visa can be straightforward, especially for Canadian applicants. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved in applying for a TN Visa:

1. Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
   Before applying for the TN Visa, ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements, including having the correct professional qualifications and a valid job offer from a U.S. employer in a TN-approved occupation.
2. Step 2: Gather Documentation
   You will need to collect the following documentation to support your application:
   • Proof of Canadian or Mexican citizenship (such as a passport).
   • A job offer letter from a U.S. employer outlining the terms of your employment, including your job title, duties, and salary.
   • Evidence of your qualifications, such as diplomas, certificates, and transcripts. If you don’t have a degree, you must provide evidence of equivalent professional experience.
   • A completed DS-160 form (for Mexican applicants), or simply present your documents at the border (for Canadian applicants).
3. Step 3: Apply for the TN Visa
   For Canadian citizens, the process is relatively simple. Canadians do not need to apply at a U.S. consulate. Instead, they can apply for a TN Visa at a U.S. port of entry by presenting their documents directly to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. If everything is in order, you will be approved for TN status immediately. For Mexican citizens, you must apply through a U.S. consulate in Mexico, attend an interview, and submit the required documentation.
4. Step 4: Wait for Approval
   If you’re approved, you will receive your TN Visa and can start working for your U.S. employer.

Why Choose Larhdel Law for Your TN Visa Application?

At Larhdel Law, we understand the importance of obtaining the correct visa to pursue your career goals in the United States. Here’s how we can help:

• Eligibility Assessment: We’ll assess your qualifications and the nature of your job offer to ensure you meet the requirements for a TN Visa.
• Document Preparation: We help you gather and prepare all the necessary documentation, including your job offer letter, evidence of qualifications, and other supporting materials.
• Application Review: We review your application and ensure everything is accurate and complete before submission to avoid delays or complications.
• Interview Preparation: For Mexican applicants, we provide interview coaching to help you confidently answer questions from the consular officer during your visa interview.
• Ongoing Support: Larhdel Law is here to support you throughout the process, ensuring that your TN Visa application is submitted on time and that you have the best chance of success.

Real-Life Success Stories

• Case 1: Engineer Seeking U.S. Employment: A client, a Canadian engineer, had a job offer from a U.S. company. We helped them prepare the necessary documentation and apply for the TN Visa. The client was approved quickly and started their new role in the U.S.
• Case 2: Graphic Designer for U.S. Firm: A Mexican graphic designer came to us with a job offer from a U.S. company. We helped them gather the required documents and submit their application. The client was approved for the TN Visa and successfully moved to the U.S. to start their job.
• Case 3: Medical Professional Moving to the U.S.: A nurse from Canada sought a TN Visa to work in the U.S. We assisted them in compiling the necessary qualifications and securing a job offer. Their TN Visa was granted, and they were able to work in the U.S. as a medical professional.

Are you a Canadian or Mexican professional interested in working in the United States? The TN Visa is your opportunity to legally work in the U.S. with a valid job offer. Let Larhdel Law guide you through the application process and help you secure your visa. Contact us today at 310 943 6352 to get started.