How Can I Get a TN Visa To Work In the U.S.?

Besides being a Canadian or Mexican citizen, there are 4 main requirements to obtain U.S. work authorization under the TN visa classification:

1. Have Applicable Job Offer

• Requirement: You have a job offer that falls under 1 of the 63 available occupations.

• Problem Areas: job titles that do not exactly match the TN occupation; executive / manager roles; sales / marketing-related jobs; hybrid jobs; non-professional level jobs (assistant roles).

• Pro Tip: The Management Consultant occupation is not a one size fits all jobs category.

2. Possess Applicable Credentials

• Requirement: You meet the credential requirements for that TN category, which in many cases means possessing a bachelor’s degree in the TN occupation or a related field. (Some occupations have alternative credential options.)

• Problem Areas: Not possessing a degree in the TN occupation, or a sufficiently related field.

• Pro Tip: How do you determine if your degree is relevant? Immigration officers “should” refer to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) for guidance on what majors may qualify for a TN occupation.

3. Temporary Entry

• Requirement: You intent to enter the U.S. for temporary purposes only.

• Problem Areas: Prior overstays, extended visits to the U.S., pending green card applications.

• Pro Tip: Although temporary intent is required at the time of entry, it may be possible to pursue a green card under TN visa status in the future.

4. No Self-Employment

• Requirement: You are not coming to the U.S. to engage in self-employment.

• Problem Areas: Applying for a TN for a company that you solely own, or have a controlling ownership interest in.

• Pro Tip: It is possible to be self-employed or own a company outside of the U.S., and have your business/company contract for work in the U.S. under TN visa status.