Professional Employment for Citizens of Canada and Mexico (TN Visa - NAFTA Work Visa)

TN Visa Definition:

To Qualify for a TN Visa:

1. You must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico to be eligible for the TN Visa as opposed to other USA work visas.
2. You must have an offer of employment from a US business for a job in a particular profession (NAFTA Secretariat Website) and you must meet the education and/or licensure requirements for that profession.
3. As a Canadian citizen, you can apply directly with a US immigration officer at most border ports of entry and airports in Canada. You must have proof of the job offer, proof of your citizenship and proof of your credentials. Further information on the TN work visa application procedures can be found at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1274.html
4. As a Mexican citizen, you apply directly for the TN USA work Visa at a US Consulate in Mexico (http://mexico.usembassy.gov/mexico/evisas.html) providing the same documentation as listed above.

TN Visa Length:

TN visas are valid for up to one year at a time.

Advantages TN Visa:

TN visas can be renewed indefinitely. However, these USA work visas were not intended for permanent residence. They are not subject to quotas such as H-1B usa work visas. A TN Visa is relatively easier to obtain and take less time to obtain than an H-1B visa and the filing fees are minimal compared to those associated with the H-1B visa.