The TN visa is a non-immigrant visa category available to citizens of Canada and Mexico, allowing them to work in the United States in certain professional occupations. Here’s an overview of the TN visa:
- Eligibility: To qualify for a TN visa, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico.
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer for a position that is listed in the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) treaty.
- Possess the necessary qualifications, such as a degree, professional license, or relevant work experience, required for the specific profession.
- Occupational Categories: The TN visa is available for individuals working in certain professional occupations, including but not limited to:
- Engineers
- Scientists
- Accountants
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Management Consultants
- Teachers
- Pharmacists
- Graphic Designers
- Lawyers
- Duration of Stay: TN visa holders can initially stay in the U.S. for up to three years. Extensions of stay are possible in increments of up to three years, with no limit on the total duration of stay as long as the individual maintains TN visa eligibility.
- Dependents: Dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age) of TN visa holders are eligible for TD (Trade Dependent) visas, allowing them to accompany the TN visa holder to the United States. However, TD visa holders are not permitted to work while in the U.S.
It’s important for TN visa applicants to thoroughly understand the requirements of the specific profession and ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria. Consulting with an immigration attorney or experienced professional can be helpful in navigating the TN visa application process.
