TN Visa for NAFTA Professionals

1. What is a TN Visa?


A TN visa is a type of non-immigrant visa that allows qualified citizens of Canada and Mexico to work in the United States on a temporary basis. To be eligible for a TN visa, applicants must possess certain qualifications and meet specific criteria in order to be approved.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a TN Visa?


In order to obtain a TN visa, an individual must be a citizen of either Mexico or Canada, and must have an offer of employment from a U.S. employer. The job offered must require a NAFTA professional, and the individual must meet the appropriate qualifications. Additionally, the individual must have the required documents to prove his or her eligibility, as well as a valid passport.

3. How long can a TN Visa be valid for?


A TN Visa can be valid for up to three years.

4. How much does it cost to apply for a TN Visa?


There is no fee to apply for a TN visa. The only cost to obtain a TN visa is the cost of the visa application form and the cost of the biometrics (fingerprint) fee.

5. Can I enter the US multiple times on a single TN Visa?


Yes, you can enter the US multiple times on a single TN visa. The TN Visa is a temporary, nonimmigrant visa that allows qualified professionals from Canada and Mexico to work in the US. The TN visa is issued for a three-year period and is renewable indefinitely.

6. Is a job offer required to obtain a TN visa?


No, a job offer is not required to obtain a TN visa. However, the applicant must demonstrate that they will be engaging in activities at a professional level that are allowed under the terms of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

7. How long does the TN visa application process take?


The TN visa application process can take anywhere from a few days to several months depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. The wait time can also depend on the processing times and backlogs of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where the application is being filed.

8. How do I renew my TN Visa?


The TN visa can be renewed at a local U.S. embassy or consulate. The applicant will need to provide a letter from the employer indicating the same position and salary, as well as a new application form and supporting documents. Depending on the consulate, the renewal process may require an interview.

9. Does a TN Visa allow me to work in the US?


Yes, a TN visa does allow you to work in the United States. However, the TN visa is only valid for a specific amount of time (usually three years) and you must apply for a renewal before it expires. Additionally, the TN visa only allows for certain types of work in the US, such as professional or trade occupations.

10. Does a TN Visa allow me to apply for permanent residency in the US?


No. A TN Visa is a nonimmigrant visa, which does not provide a pathway to permanent residency in the US.

11. What documents are needed to apply for a TN Visa?


To apply for a TN Visa, you will need the following documents:
* A valid passport from your home country
* A valid work permit from your home country
* An Offer of Employment letter from your employer in the US
* Evidence that you are qualified for the position (such as diplomas, certificates, etc.)
* Proof of the fee payment for the application process
* Proof of relationship to a NAFTA country (passport or birth certificate)

12. Are there any restrictions on what type of work I can do on a TN Visa?


Yes, a TN Visa cannot be used to perform independent personal services, or services of a “consultant”, “independent contractor” or “freelancer”. The position must be for a salaried employee with an employer/employee relationship.

13. Can I bring my dependents to the US with me on a TN Visa?


Yes, you can bring dependents to the US with you on a TN visa. However, dependents would need to apply for a TD (trade dependent) visa.

14. Can I change employers while I’m in the US on a TN visa?


Yes, you can change employers while in the US on a TN visa. However, you must obtain a new TN visa from the new employer in order to continue working. Your new employer must file a new TN visa petition with USCIS and you will need to schedule an appointment to obtain the new visa at a US Consulate.

15. What types of professions qualify for a TN Visa?


Professions that qualify for a TN Visa include accountants, engineers, lawyers, pharmacists, scientists, and teachers.

16. Can I open a business in the US on a TN visa?


Yes, you can start a business in the US on a TN visa. However, it’s important to note that the TN visa does not provide a path to permanent residence in the US and that you must maintain your status while operating the business. Additionally, you must ensure that the business activity is within the scope of your TN category and is consistent with your job duties. Finally, you should consult an immigration attorney before starting any business venture to ensure compliance with all applicable laws.

17. Are there any countries whose citizens are not eligible for TN Visas?


Yes, citizens of some countries, such as India, China, and the Philippines, are not eligible for TN visas.

18. Do I need to be sponsored by an employer to get a TN visa?


Yes, you must have a job offer from a qualified US employer in order to be eligible for a TN visa. You will need to provide evidence of your offer, such as a job contract, to the US immigration authorities when you apply for the visa.

19. If my application is denied, can I appeal it?


Yes, you may appeal the denial of your application. You should contact the organization that denied your application for information on how to file an appeal.

20. Can I attend school or university while on a TN visa?


Yes, you can attend school or university while on a TN visa. You will need to obtain a student visa in order to do so. However, you cannot use your TN visa for the purposes of studying full-time in the United States.