A TN visa is a temporary, nonimmigrant visa that allows entry to the United States for professional workers who are citizens of Mexico or Canada. TN visas allow expedited entry to the US for those who wish to conduct business.

A TN work visa lawyer can help you complete and submit your application for a TN visa, as well as make arrangements with your place of work in the US to make sure that all documentation supporting your visa process is provided.

It may be wise to hire a TN visa attorney if you encounter serious difficulties during the visa application process. You may also need a TN visa lawyer’s help to streamline the process and manage any necessary documentation.

The TN visa application processing fee is $160. Other costs may also apply, such as a TN visa attorney fee.

Getting a TN visa requires a few steps:

• Apply to a fixed-term job in the United States, or relocate to a position within your current company that is in the US.
• Ensure that the job is TN-eligible; TN visas only apply to professional-class jobs, such as lawyers, accountants, teachers, and scientists. You will likely also need to present your professional qualifications, such as a degree.
• Obtain an offer letter and supporting documents from your employer, indicating that you will be performing a professional job for them for a fixed term.
• Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application, Form DS-160
• When you have the appropriate documentation, you can apply for a TN visa at a US Embassy or Consulate.
• Be sure to bring all supporting documentation — and personal information like a current passport and job certifications — when moving to the US.

The exact steps in the process may vary based on the specific job the visa-applicant will work, their specific citizenship status, and whether they have dependents. If you’re uncertain about the process at any step of the way, a Consumer Law Group TN visa lawyer will be happy to assist you.

Visa processing times can depend on the specific city and embassy where you apply. It can be as fast as on-the-spot, or it could take up to a couple of weeks.

• Applicants must be citizens of either Mexico or Canada.
• Your profession must be approved and on the NAFTA List.
• The US position you are applying to must require a NAFTA professional.
• You must work for a full or part-time job for an employer — you may not be self-employed.
• You fully meet all qualifications and certifications for the profession that you will work in.

The initial period of your stay with a TN visa is 3 years.

Those looking for TN visa renewal have two options:

• Leave the country and re-enter following the same process you initially used to enter the US.
• Have your employer submit Form I-129 on your behalf to extend your stay.

• Your passport
• Form DS-160, nonimmigrant application
• Application fee
• Current photo
• Offer letter from a US company or organization
• Documentation proving your professional qualifications

Yes, you can check your status on the USCIS website by entering your receipt number.

You can reapply if your visa is denied. Be sure to gather necessary and accurate documentation when reapplying. You can also work with a TN visa lawyer to help ensure your application is well-prepared for review.

You may still be able to apply for a TN visa even if you have a criminal record — however, this may depend on the specific crime you were convicted for as well as other factors.

Yes, you may re-enter the United States after leaving if you have acquired a TN visa. Be sure to keep all necessary documentation on-hand to prevent confusion at customs and border checks.

Yes, you are required to present documentation — such as an offer letter — from a US employer demonstrating where you will work while holding your TN visa.

Scientists, teachers, engineers, accountants, lawyers, pharmacists, and others are all considered professionals. A full list of NAFTA jobs can be found here.

Yes, but you will still be required to apply for a green card through the usual application process.

You may be asked questions at Customs and Border Protection regarding your supporting documentation. Questions can include:

Yes, though they may also be required to apply for a visa depending on their citizenship and dependent status.

Yes, TN visa holders may purchase property in the US.

• How long is your intended stay?
• What is your country of origin?
• What company will you work for?
• Do you have a US criminal history?
• And others

The exact questions you are asked will likely depend on your profession and the specific job you will be working.

Due to COVID-19, applicants will likely be required to wear masks, use hand sanitizer, and abide by all social distancing protocols required by the embassy or consulate where they apply. You will likely not be allowed entry if you have symptoms associated with COVID-19. Some ports of entry may also be subject to temporary closures during COVID-19 case surges.

If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Consumer Law Group TN visa or immigration lawyer to learn more about the process.