TN
TN covers Canadian and Mexican citizens who will practice a profession listed in the applicable agreement. Nationality, the position and specific qualifications must meet the rules. Permanent residence in those countries is not equivalent to citizenship for this purpose.
What to consider
Assessment involves prearranged work, duties, duration and the credentials required for the profession. Application procedures differ for Canadians and Mexicans. The category is not intended for self-employment; dependents have their own classification and rules.
Professions covered by the agreement
TN is linked to the agreement between the United States, Mexico and Canada, now called USMCA, which replaced NAFTA. The list includes professions such as accountant, engineer, lawyer, pharmacist, scientists in specific fields and teachers at higher education institutions. Each profession has its own education or credential requirements. A similar job title is not enough: duties and qualifications must match the listed category.
Job offer and qualifications
Prearranged professional work in the United States, full-time or part-time, for an employer is required. The position must require a listed profession, and the applicant must establish the education or experience specified for it. TN does not authorize self-employment. The letter or contract should describe duties, expected duration, pay and qualifications. Degrees, professional records and evidence of experience help establish eligibility; licenses to practice depend on the applicable rules.
Canadians and Mexicans: application procedures
Canadian citizens can generally request admission in TN status directly at an authorized port of entry, without a consular visa, by presenting the required documents. Mexican citizens must obtain a TN visa at an embassy or consulate before requesting entry in this classification. Family circumstances and place of residence may affect consular requirements. In both cases, the activity must be temporary and admission depends on review by the authorities.
Length of stay and extensions
Each admission in TN status may authorize up to three years, depending on the approved activity. Extensions of up to three years may be requested while the requirements continue to be met and the activity remains temporary; there is no general fixed limit on renewals, but they are not automatic. The authorized period appears on the I-94 and may differ from the validity of the visa in the passport.
Spouse and children: TD classification
A spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany or join the principal in TD classification, meeting the family relationship and documentation requirements. Visa requirements depend on each family member’s citizenship. TD classification does not authorize employment in the United States, although it permits study. The family should plan its financial support during the stay.
How we can help
01 · Understand
Your history and goals guide the initial assessment and identification of relevant issues.
02 · Organize
The team identifies the information and evidence needed and explains the scope of the proposed work.
03 · Follow through
You receive guidance on the stages of our services and next steps, according to the agreed scope.
Frequently asked questions
Can any profession use TN?
No. The list of professions and the qualifications required for the actual proposed work must be checked.
What is the TN visa?
It is a nonimmigrant classification allowing eligible Canadian and Mexican citizens to temporarily perform professional activities listed under USMCA.
Who may apply for TN?
Canadian or Mexican citizens who meet the profession, offer and qualification requirements. Merely living in those countries or holding permanent residence is not enough.
Can the job be part-time?
Yes. The offer may be full-time or part-time, provided it is prearranged and consistent with an eligible profession and the category rules.
Can I be self-employed on TN?
No. TN is not intended for self-employment. The relationship with the employer and the proposed professional activity must be assessed.
Can my family accompany me?
A spouse and unmarried children under 21 may request TD classification. TD dependents may study but may not work based on that status.
Is TN still associated with NAFTA?
The category originated under NAFTA and continues under USMCA, the agreement that replaced it. The profession list and specific requirements remain central to the assessment.
How can I check my TN eligibility?
Schedule a free interview with Visa Finder to discuss your citizenship, education, experience and job offer. These elements guide the initial assessment of your case.
How long can I stay in TN status?
Up to three years per admission, depending on the authorized activity. Extensions of up to three years may be requested with renewed evidence of eligibility and the temporary nature of the work. Always check the I-94 expiration date.
Do I need to send documents when I first get in touch?
The team will explain which information is needed and the appropriate channel for sending private documents.
Can approval or a timeline be guaranteed?
No. Government decisions and processing times depend on the authorities and the circumstances of each case.
Information in context
Informational content. Eligibility, documentation and strategy depend on individual assessment and the rules applicable to the case.
Official reference ↗USCIS — TN professionals ↗