Individuals working in the U.S. under TN visa status as Registered Nurses and in other healthcare occupations require a healthcare worker certificate (visa screen). Not only is the visa screen required for initial TN visa applications, it is also required for TN visa renewal applications. As illustrated in a recent news article, even RNs who have been working in the U.S. for over 20 years under TN visa status can be denied entry to the U.S. unless they have a valid visa screen.

It is, therefore, imperative for RNs and others to be mindful of the expiration dates of their visa screens. RNs should renew their visa screens well in advance to ensure they are issued in time for their TN visa renewal applications. An application for an RN to renew a visa screen can be submitted up to 1 year prior to its expiration. 

It should also be noted that a valid visa screen is technically required during every admission to the U.S., and not just at the time of applying for a TN visa. See 8 CFR 212.5 (d).