The TN nonimmigrant classification permits qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to seek temporary entry into the United States for employment at a professional level.
Under a TN Visa:
- Canadian and Mexican professionals can maintain NAFTA visa status indefinitely by requesting extensions based upon their qualifying professional activity
- They are entitled to request TD dependent visa status for their spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21.
- Dependents may attend school if desired.
To be eligible for a TN visa, the national of Canada or Mexico must prove that:
- They are citizens of Canada or Mexico
- Their profession qualifies under the specific TN regulations
- The position in the United States requires a professional employee with the right education
- There is a prearranged full-time or part-time job with a U.S. employer
- They have the qualifications of the profession
A citizen of Canada can request admission as a TN nonimmigrant at a U.S. port of entry, and must provide the following documentation:
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- Letter from a prospective employer detailing items such as the professional capacity in which the individual will work in the United States, the purpose of employment, length of stay, and educational qualifications
- Evaluation of educational experience (if applicable)
Citizens of Mexico are required to obtain a visa to enter the United States as a TN nonimmigrant. They must apply for a TN visa directly at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico. Once issued the TN visa, they may apply for admission at certain CBP-designated U.S. ports of entry or at a designated pre-clearance/pre-flight inspection station. If a CBP officer finds them eligible for admission, then they will be admitted as a TN nonimmigrant.