CBP has announced that beginning in mid-September, the agency will provide “optimized processing” for first-time Canadian TN and L visa status applicants. CBP is not requiring first-time applicants to apply at these locations, but is instead “encouraging” such applicants to file at these offices.

CBP will provide this optimized processing at the following locations:

• Pearson International Airport

• Trudeau International Airport

• Vancouver International Airport

• Calgary International Airport

• Highgate Springs Port of Entry

• Derby Line Port of Entry

• Alexandria Bay Port of Entry

• Peace Bridge Port of Entry

• Rainbow Bridge Port of Entry

• Champlain Port of Entry

• Detroit Canada Tunnel Port of Entry

• Detroit Ambassador Bridge Port of Entry

• Blaine Peace Arch Port of Entry

• Sweetgrass Port of Entry

CBP has not stated what “optimized processing” actually entails, e.g. whether it will assign more senior officers at these locations for TN and L-1 visa application adjudications. We will continue to monitor this development, and provide more details as they become available.