TN Visa for Canadians and Mexicans: The USMCA Advantage
TN visa offers Canadian and Mexican professionals immediate work authorization without H-1B lottery—often the fastest and simplest path to work legally in the U.S
Quick Answer
TN visa under USMCA (formerly NAFTA) allows Canadian and Mexican professionals in 60+ designated occupations to work in the U.S. without lottery, annual caps, or lengthy processing. Canadians can apply at the border and receive approval the same day; Mexicans apply at consulates with decisions in days. TN is renewable indefinitely but has limitations: officially no dual intent (complicating green card pursuit) and restricted to specific professions. For qualifying professionals, TN is often superior to H-1B.
Key Takeaways
No lottery, no annual cap: Unlike H-1B's 25% selection rate, TN has no numerical limit.
Fast processing: Canadians get same-day approval at border; Mexicans get decisions within days.
60+ eligible professions: Engineers, scientists, accountants, computer systems analysts, and many more.
Indefinitely renewable: 3-year increments with no maximum limit.
Dual intent complication: TN is officially non-immigrant, complicating green card pursuit.
Professional degree usually required: Most TN categories require at least bachelor's degree.
Key Takeaways
No lottery, no annual cap: Unlike H-1B's 25% selection rate, TN has no numerical limit.
Fast processing: Canadians get same-day approval at border; Mexicans get decisions within days.
60+ eligible professions: Engineers, scientists, accountants, computer systems analysts, and many more.
Indefinitely renewable: 3-year increments with no maximum limit.
Dual intent complication: TN is officially non-immigrant, complicating green card pursuit.
Professional degree usually required: Most TN categories require at least bachelor's degree.
Table of Content
Understanding TN Visa Basics
What is TN?
TN (Treaty National) visa was created under NAFTA (now USMCA) to allow qualified Canadian and Mexican professionals to work in the U.S.
Key features:
Limited to citizens of Canada and Mexico
Must be in one of 60+ designated professions
Requires job offer from U.S. employer
Initial duration: 3 years
Renewable: Unlimited times
TN vs H-1B comparison:
Factor | TN | H-1B |
Lottery | No | Yes (25% selection) |
Annual cap | None | 85,000 |
Processing time | Days | Months |
Duration | 3 years, unlimited renewals | 3 years, 6-year max |
Dual intent | Officially no | Yes |
Professions | Limited list | Specialty occupation |
Eligible nationals | Canada, Mexico only | All countries |
Eligible TN Professions
TN is limited to specific professions. Partial list:
Engineering:
Engineer (all disciplines)
Must have engineering degree
Sciences:
Biologist
Chemist
Physicist
Mathematician
Geologist
Meteorologist
Computer:
Computer Systems Analyst
Note: "Software Developer" or "Programmer" alone may not qualify
Business:
Accountant
Management Consultant
Economist
Healthcare:
Registered Nurse
Pharmacist
Medical Technologist
Dentist
Physician (teaching/research only)
Other:
Architect
Lawyer (advising on foreign/international law)
Librarian
Scientific Technician
Technical Publications Writer
Important: Job title must match TN category. "Software Engineer" may need to be framed as "Engineer" or "Computer Systems Analyst."
Canadian TN Process (Easiest)
Canadians have the simplest TN process:
Step 1: Get job offer
U.S. employer provides offer letter
Letter must specify: job duties, qualifications required, duration, compensation
Step 2: Gather documents
Offer letter
Proof of Canadian citizenship (passport)
Proof of qualifications (degree, transcripts, professional license)
Resume/CV
Step 3: Apply at border
Present documents at U.S. port of entry
CBP officer reviews and adjudicates
Decision: Same day (usually within hours)
Fee: $50
Step 4: Enter U.S. and work
I-94 issued showing TN status
Begin employment immediately
No visa stamp needed: Canadians don't need visa stamp in passport—just I-94 and admission at border.
Mexican TN Process
Mexicans must apply at U.S. consulate:
Step 1: Get job offer
Same requirements as Canadians
Detailed offer letter
Step 2: Schedule consular appointment
Apply for TN visa at U.S. consulate in Mexico
Complete DS-160 form
Pay visa fee ($160)
Step 3: Attend interview
Bring all supporting documents
Interview typically brief
Decision: Usually same day or within days
Step 4: Receive visa stamp
Visa stamp placed in passport
Valid for duration of TN status (up to 3 years)
Step 5: Enter U.S.
Present visa at port of entry
Receive I-94
Begin employment
Timeline: 1-3 weeks total (including appointment wait time)
TN Renewal Process
TN is renewable indefinitely in 3-year increments.
Renewal options:
Option 1: At border (Canadians)
Same process as initial application
Present new/updated offer letter
Get new I-94
Option 2: At consulate (Mexicans)
Apply for new visa stamp
Same process as initial application
Option 3: Mail-in extension (both nationalities)
File I-129 with USCIS
Employer petitions for extension
Processing: 3-6 months
Can continue working while pending
How many times can you renew?
No limit
Can stay on TN indefinitely
Many people remain on TN for 10+ years
The Dual Intent Challenge
The complication:
TN is officially "non-immigrant" visa—you must intend to return home.
What this means:
At border/consulate, you should not indicate permanent residence intent
Pursuing green card while on TN creates tension
Officer may deny TN if they believe you intend to stay permanently
How this plays out:
Scenario 1: Just entered on TN
Don't immediately file for green card
Let time pass, circumstances "change"
Generally safe to pursue green card after 1-2 years
Scenario 2: Long-term TN holder
Multiple renewals suggest intent to stay
But: Intent can legitimately change over time
Many successfully pursue green cards after years on TN
Scenario 3: Green card filed while on TN
TN renewal becomes riskier
Some renew successfully; others face issues
Consider switching to H-1B before filing green card
TN to Green Card Strategies
Strategy 1: TN → H-1B → Green Card
Process:
Work on TN for 1-2 years
Employer sponsors H-1B (no lottery needed for cap-exempt, or try lottery)
Once on H-1B, file green card (H-1B has dual intent)
Advantage: H-1B provides clear dual intent platform for green card.
Disadvantage: May need to win H-1B lottery (unless cap-exempt).
Strategy 2: TN → Direct Green Card
Process:
Work on TN
Employer files green card (PERM → I-140)
Time intent change carefully
Adjust status when priority date current
Risk: TN renewal while green card pending is risky.
Mitigation:
File green card after establishing TN history
Consider not renewing TN at border (use I-129 extension instead)
Some switch to H-1B before I-485 stage
Strategy 3: TN → EB-1A/NIW (Self-Petition)
Process:
Build evidence while on TN
File self-petition (no employer involvement)
Intent change is personal decision over time
Advantage: Self-petition doesn't involve employer in immigration decision.
Consideration: Still creates dual intent issue for TN renewal.
Common TN Issues
Issue 1: Job doesn't fit TN category
Problem: Your job title or duties don't match approved TN profession.
Solution: Work with employer to frame position properly. "Software Developer" might be "Computer Systems Analyst" or "Engineer."
Issue 2: Degree doesn't match profession
Problem: Your degree field doesn't align with TN profession.
Solution: Some professions allow related degrees. Consult USMCA requirements for your specific category.
Issue 3: No degree (for degree-required professions)
Problem: Most TN categories require bachelor's degree.
Solution: Some categories allow experience in lieu of degree. Check specific requirements.
Issue 4: Border officer denial
Problem: CBP officer denies TN at border.
Solution:
Request supervisor review
Come back with better documentation
Consider applying via I-129 (more thorough review)
TN for Specific Situations
Computer Systems Analyst (most common tech TN):
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree (any field, but CS/related preferred)
Job must involve systems analysis, not just coding
Frame duties around analyzing business needs and designing solutions
How to frame the role:
Emphasize: Requirements gathering, systems design, business analysis
De-emphasize: Pure coding, routine programming
Management Consultant:
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree
Providing consulting services (not employment)
Often requires consulting firm employment
Considerations:
In-house positions harder to qualify
Best for actual consulting firms
Must show consulting (advisory) nature of work
Engineer:
Requirements:
Engineering degree (or equivalent)
Job requires engineering knowledge
Advantage: Broad category covering many technical roles.
How OpenSphere Evaluates TN Path
Profession Match Analysis: Based on your job and degree, evaluate which TN category fits.
TN vs H-1B Comparison: For your situation, compare TN advantages against H-1B benefits.
Green Card Strategy: Map your path from TN to green card, including timing and dual intent management.
Risk Assessment: Evaluate risks of TN renewal while pursuing green card.
Comparison Table: TN Application Methods
Method | For | Processing | Cost | Best For |
Border (POE) | Canadians | Same day | $50 | Initial TN, quick renewals |
Consulate | Mexicans | Days-weeks | $160 | Initial TN, renewals |
I-129 (USCIS) | Both | 3-6 months | $460+ | Extensions while in U.S. |
Are you a Canadian or Mexican professional considering TN visa? Want to know if your job qualifies and how to plan for green card?
Take the OpenSphere evaluation. You'll get TN eligibility assessment and long-term immigration strategy.
Understanding TN Visa Basics
What is TN?
TN (Treaty National) visa was created under NAFTA (now USMCA) to allow qualified Canadian and Mexican professionals to work in the U.S.
Key features:
Limited to citizens of Canada and Mexico
Must be in one of 60+ designated professions
Requires job offer from U.S. employer
Initial duration: 3 years
Renewable: Unlimited times
TN vs H-1B comparison:
Factor | TN | H-1B |
Lottery | No | Yes (25% selection) |
Annual cap | None | 85,000 |
Processing time | Days | Months |
Duration | 3 years, unlimited renewals | 3 years, 6-year max |
Dual intent | Officially no | Yes |
Professions | Limited list | Specialty occupation |
Eligible nationals | Canada, Mexico only | All countries |
Eligible TN Professions
TN is limited to specific professions. Partial list:
Engineering:
Engineer (all disciplines)
Must have engineering degree
Sciences:
Biologist
Chemist
Physicist
Mathematician
Geologist
Meteorologist
Computer:
Computer Systems Analyst
Note: "Software Developer" or "Programmer" alone may not qualify
Business:
Accountant
Management Consultant
Economist
Healthcare:
Registered Nurse
Pharmacist
Medical Technologist
Dentist
Physician (teaching/research only)
Other:
Architect
Lawyer (advising on foreign/international law)
Librarian
Scientific Technician
Technical Publications Writer
Important: Job title must match TN category. "Software Engineer" may need to be framed as "Engineer" or "Computer Systems Analyst."
Canadian TN Process (Easiest)
Canadians have the simplest TN process:
Step 1: Get job offer
U.S. employer provides offer letter
Letter must specify: job duties, qualifications required, duration, compensation
Step 2: Gather documents
Offer letter
Proof of Canadian citizenship (passport)
Proof of qualifications (degree, transcripts, professional license)
Resume/CV
Step 3: Apply at border
Present documents at U.S. port of entry
CBP officer reviews and adjudicates
Decision: Same day (usually within hours)
Fee: $50
Step 4: Enter U.S. and work
I-94 issued showing TN status
Begin employment immediately
No visa stamp needed: Canadians don't need visa stamp in passport—just I-94 and admission at border.
Mexican TN Process
Mexicans must apply at U.S. consulate:
Step 1: Get job offer
Same requirements as Canadians
Detailed offer letter
Step 2: Schedule consular appointment
Apply for TN visa at U.S. consulate in Mexico
Complete DS-160 form
Pay visa fee ($160)
Step 3: Attend interview
Bring all supporting documents
Interview typically brief
Decision: Usually same day or within days
Step 4: Receive visa stamp
Visa stamp placed in passport
Valid for duration of TN status (up to 3 years)
Step 5: Enter U.S.
Present visa at port of entry
Receive I-94
Begin employment
Timeline: 1-3 weeks total (including appointment wait time)
TN Renewal Process
TN is renewable indefinitely in 3-year increments.
Renewal options:
Option 1: At border (Canadians)
Same process as initial application
Present new/updated offer letter
Get new I-94
Option 2: At consulate (Mexicans)
Apply for new visa stamp
Same process as initial application
Option 3: Mail-in extension (both nationalities)
File I-129 with USCIS
Employer petitions for extension
Processing: 3-6 months
Can continue working while pending
How many times can you renew?
No limit
Can stay on TN indefinitely
Many people remain on TN for 10+ years
The Dual Intent Challenge
The complication:
TN is officially "non-immigrant" visa—you must intend to return home.
What this means:
At border/consulate, you should not indicate permanent residence intent
Pursuing green card while on TN creates tension
Officer may deny TN if they believe you intend to stay permanently
How this plays out:
Scenario 1: Just entered on TN
Don't immediately file for green card
Let time pass, circumstances "change"
Generally safe to pursue green card after 1-2 years
Scenario 2: Long-term TN holder
Multiple renewals suggest intent to stay
But: Intent can legitimately change over time
Many successfully pursue green cards after years on TN
Scenario 3: Green card filed while on TN
TN renewal becomes riskier
Some renew successfully; others face issues
Consider switching to H-1B before filing green card
TN to Green Card Strategies
Strategy 1: TN → H-1B → Green Card
Process:
Work on TN for 1-2 years
Employer sponsors H-1B (no lottery needed for cap-exempt, or try lottery)
Once on H-1B, file green card (H-1B has dual intent)
Advantage: H-1B provides clear dual intent platform for green card.
Disadvantage: May need to win H-1B lottery (unless cap-exempt).
Strategy 2: TN → Direct Green Card
Process:
Work on TN
Employer files green card (PERM → I-140)
Time intent change carefully
Adjust status when priority date current
Risk: TN renewal while green card pending is risky.
Mitigation:
File green card after establishing TN history
Consider not renewing TN at border (use I-129 extension instead)
Some switch to H-1B before I-485 stage
Strategy 3: TN → EB-1A/NIW (Self-Petition)
Process:
Build evidence while on TN
File self-petition (no employer involvement)
Intent change is personal decision over time
Advantage: Self-petition doesn't involve employer in immigration decision.
Consideration: Still creates dual intent issue for TN renewal.
Common TN Issues
Issue 1: Job doesn't fit TN category
Problem: Your job title or duties don't match approved TN profession.
Solution: Work with employer to frame position properly. "Software Developer" might be "Computer Systems Analyst" or "Engineer."
Issue 2: Degree doesn't match profession
Problem: Your degree field doesn't align with TN profession.
Solution: Some professions allow related degrees. Consult USMCA requirements for your specific category.
Issue 3: No degree (for degree-required professions)
Problem: Most TN categories require bachelor's degree.
Solution: Some categories allow experience in lieu of degree. Check specific requirements.
Issue 4: Border officer denial
Problem: CBP officer denies TN at border.
Solution:
Request supervisor review
Come back with better documentation
Consider applying via I-129 (more thorough review)
TN for Specific Situations
Computer Systems Analyst (most common tech TN):
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree (any field, but CS/related preferred)
Job must involve systems analysis, not just coding
Frame duties around analyzing business needs and designing solutions
How to frame the role:
Emphasize: Requirements gathering, systems design, business analysis
De-emphasize: Pure coding, routine programming
Management Consultant:
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree
Providing consulting services (not employment)
Often requires consulting firm employment
Considerations:
In-house positions harder to qualify
Best for actual consulting firms
Must show consulting (advisory) nature of work
Engineer:
Requirements:
Engineering degree (or equivalent)
Job requires engineering knowledge
Advantage: Broad category covering many technical roles.
How OpenSphere Evaluates TN Path
Profession Match Analysis: Based on your job and degree, evaluate which TN category fits.
TN vs H-1B Comparison: For your situation, compare TN advantages against H-1B benefits.
Green Card Strategy: Map your path from TN to green card, including timing and dual intent management.
Risk Assessment: Evaluate risks of TN renewal while pursuing green card.
Comparison Table: TN Application Methods
Method | For | Processing | Cost | Best For |
Border (POE) | Canadians | Same day | $50 | Initial TN, quick renewals |
Consulate | Mexicans | Days-weeks | $160 | Initial TN, renewals |
I-129 (USCIS) | Both | 3-6 months | $460+ | Extensions while in U.S. |
Are you a Canadian or Mexican professional considering TN visa? Want to know if your job qualifies and how to plan for green card?
Take the OpenSphere evaluation. You'll get TN eligibility assessment and long-term immigration strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I switch employers on TN?
Yes, but you need new TN for new employer. Apply at border (Canadians) or consulate (Mexicans) with new offer letter.
2. Can my spouse work on TD (TN dependent)?
No. TD dependents cannot work. Spouse needs own work visa for employment.
3. Is there a maximum time I can stay on TN?
No maximum. TN can be renewed indefinitely in 3-year increments.
4. Will TN be revoked if I apply for green card?
Not automatically, but TN renewal becomes riskier with pending green card.
5. Can I use TN for remote work?
TN requires U.S. employer and work performed in the U.S. Pure remote work for Canadian employer doesn't qualify.
6. What if my degree is from outside Canada/Mexico?
Foreign degrees can qualify but may need evaluation. The key is having qualifying credentials.
7. Can I bring my family on TN?
Yes. Spouse and children under 21 get TD (TN Dependent) status. They can study but not work.
8. What happens if I lose my job on TN?
TN status is tied to employment. If job ends, you have short grace period to find new sponsor or leave.
9. Is "Software Developer" a TN profession?
Not directly. Must be framed as "Computer Systems Analyst" or "Engineer" with appropriate duties.
10. Can I be self-employed on TN?
No. TN requires employment relationship with U.S. employer.
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