WORK IN THE U.S. UNDER NAFTA/USMCA - QUICKLY AND Without A Lottery
If you’re a Canadian or Mexican citizen with a job offer in the U.S., the TN visa might be your fastest and most efficient path to start working here. Created under the North American Free Trade Agreement (now the USMCA), the TN visa allows qualifying professionals to work in the U.S. in pre-approved occupations—without needing sponsorship through the H-1B lottery.
What Is a TN Visa?
The TN visa allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the United States in certain professional roles, including:
- Engineers
- Accountants
- Scientists
- Computer Systems Analysts
- Teachers
- Medical Professionals
- and many more!
Your job offer must be in a qualifying profession listed under the USMCA, and you must show that you have the required education or credentials.
HOW WE CAN Help
At Burgos Law, we guide both professionals and employers through:
- TN border application prep and documentation
- Employer support letters tailored to CBP/USCIS standards
- USCIS TN filings with optional premium processing
- Extensions and renewals
- Transitions to green cards or other visa types
TN FOR CANADIANS Two Ways to Apply
Canadian citizens do NOT need a TN visa stamp issued by the consulate to apply for a TN visa. You have two options:
1. Apply Directly at the Border or Airport (CBP)
You can apply at a U.S. port of entry or pre-flight inspection point. If approved, you’ll receive your I-94 right away and can start working as soon as you arrive in the U.S. An I-94 is your official proof of lawful entry and how long you’re allowed to stay in the country. This is often the fastest route—no waiting on USCIS.
2. Apply Through USCIS
If you’re already in the U.S. or your employer prefers to file through USCIS, we can submit a petition on your behalf. This is useful if:
- You’re changing status from another visa (like F-1 or B-2)
- You’re extending or amending a current TN
- You’d rather avoid border scrutiny
Once approved, you’ll receive a TN approval notice with an I-94 attached.
TN FOR MEXICANS Apply at the Consulate First
Mexican citizens must first apply for a TN visa stamp at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad before entering the U.S. with TN status. Once issued, you can travel and work just like Canadian TN holders.
FAQs
How long is a TN visa valid?
A TN visa can be granted for up to 3 years at a time, with unlimited renewals—as long as you still qualify.
What’s the difference between applying with USCIS vs. CBP?
- USCIS approval is processed inside the U.S., typically used when changing status, extending from within the U.S., or avoiding travel.
- CBP approval is handled at the border or airport and gives you instant approval and an I-94 at entry. It’s fast, but you must be ready for on-the-spot questions from an officer.
I have an approved TN through USCIS—can I travel internationally?
Yes—if you’re a Canadian citizen, there’s a special rule that works in your favor.
For Canadian citizens, if you have an approved TN petition through USCIS, the I-94 attached to your approval notice (Form I-797A) can be used to reenter the U.S. from Canada or Mexico within the validity period, without needing to reapply at the border.
For Mexican citizens, or Canadian TN holders traveling beyond North America, you’ll need a valid visa stamp or border approval to reenter.
Can I bring my family?
Yes! Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can come to the U.S. in TD status. However, they can’t work, but they can study.