TN Visa Denial by U.S. Embassy / Consulate
TN Visa Denial by U.S. Embassy / Consulate Overview:
If outside the U.S., citizens of Mexico generally must first file a DS-160 application for a TN visa stamp in order to enter the U.S. under TN visa status.
The following provides an overview of how and why the U.S. Embassy/Consulate may deny a TN visa DS-160 application.
TN Visa Application Refusal Under INA 221 (g):
In some visa applications, the consular officer will issue a temporary refusal to an individual who may appear otherwise qualified for a TN visa but is missing a particular document, or who must undergo additional security clearance procedures. INA 221 (g).
Unlike all other bases of denial, a refusal under INA 221 (g) does not require the filing of a new TN visa application to address the issues raised in the refusal. 9 FAM 403.10-4(A).
Once the issue is addressed, and the refusal is overcome, the TN visa may be issued.
TN Visa Application Refusal Under INA 214 (b):
If an individual cannot ultimately prove that he/she meets the main requirements for a TN visa, then the U.S. Embassy/Consulate will deny the individual's application. INA 214 (b); 9 FAM 403.10-2(B)(1).
A denial under INA 214 (b) does not result in a permanent bar as individuals may re-apply for a TN visa or other visa classifications. 9 FAM 40.7 N1.2.
However, a TN visa denial may impact an individual's ability to enter the U.S. as a visitor (including under the visa waiver program if eligible based on citizenship from an applicable country).
See also DOS Cable 214 (b) (2004).
TN Visa Application Refusal Under INA 214 (a):
An individual may also be refused a TN visa if he/she is subject to one of the various grounds of inadmissibility under INA 212 (a).
In some instances, a waiver may be required to overcome a denial based on INA 212 (a). 9 FAM 305.3.
TN Visa Application Re-Filing:
Individuals who have been refused a TN visa may re-apply at anytime using the normal TN visa application process. 9 FAM 403.10-4(A). However, consulates may limit the appointments available for such re-applications, and may give them lower priority.
Individuals re-applying for a TN visa following a denial must provide new information to overcome the denial, or demonstrate that their circumstances have changed since the denied application. 9 FAM 403.10-3(A)(3).
Revised April 29, 2023.