The TN visa, or Treaty NAFTA visa, is a non-immigrant visa category that allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to live and work in the United States. Established under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the TN visa is designed for professionals in specific occupations to help foster business relationships across North America.
Who qualifies for a TN visa?
To qualify for a TN visa, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- You are a citizen of Canada or Mexico (cannot be a permanent resident)
- You work in a qualified profession (see below)
- The position in the United States requires a NAFTA professional
- You have an offer for a full-time or part-time job with a US employer (does not include self-employment)
- You have proof of intent to return to your permanent residence at the expiration of your visa
TN Visa Eligible Professions
One of the standout features of the TN visa is its exclusivity to certain professions. Eligible professions are broken down into four categories and include:
General Occupations for TN Visa
- Accountant
- Architect
- Includes landscape architects
- Computer Systems Analyst (CSA)
- Computer Engineer
- Includes related IT professions
- Disaster Relief Insurance Claims Adjuster
- Economist
- Engineer
- Financial Analyst
- Forester
- Forest & Conservation Technician
- Graphic Designer
- Hotel Manager
- Industrial Designer
- Interior Designer
- Land Surveyor
- Lawyer
- Librarian
- Management Consultant
- Mathmetician
- Research Assistant
- Scientific Technician / Technologist
- Social Worker
- Statistician
- Technical Publications Writer
- Urban Planner / Geographer
- Vocational Counselor
Medical Occupations for TN Visa
- Dentist
- Dietitian
- Medical Laboratory Technologist
- Nutritionist
- Occupational Therapist
- Pharmacist
- Physical Therapist / Physiotherapist
- Physician
- Psychologist
- Recreational Therapist
- Registered Nurse
- Veterinarian
Scientific Occupations for TN Visa
- Agriculturist / Agronomist
- Animal Breeder
- Animal Scientist
- Apiculturist
- Astronomer
- Biochemist / Biophysicist
- Biologist
- Chemist
- Dairy Scientist
- Entomologist
- Epidemiologist
- Geneticist
- Geologist
- Geochemist
- Geophysicist
- Horticulturist
- Meteorologist
- Pharmacologist
- Physicist
- Plant Breeder
- Poultry Scientist
- Range Manager / Conservationist
- Soil Scientist
- Zoologist / Wildlife Biologist
Teaching Occupations for TN Visa
- College Teacher
- Seminary Teacher
- University Teacher
How to apply for a TN Visa
Applying for a TN visa is a fairly straightforward process. The applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer, and both parties must fulfill certain requirements. For example, the employer must provide a support letter outlining the nature of the employment, while the applicant needs to demonstrate their qualifications and eligibility.
Benefits of the TN Visa
The TN visa offers a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to some other work visas. It is valid for up to three years but allows for extensions and provides stability for professionals seeking long-term opportunities in the U.S. TN visa holders can also bring their dependents under the TD visa category.
The TN visa is a fantastic option for professionals looking to advance their careers in the United States. It offers a streamlined application process and opportunity for family members to join, making it an attractive choice in the world of U.S. immigration.
Remember, if you're considering the TN visa, thorough preparation and understanding of the requirements are essential. Feel free to reach out to us for personalized guidance on securing a TN visa and unlocking exciting professional opportunities in the U.S.
