United States of America · work sponsored
TN USMCA Professionals (Canada & Mexico)
Non-immigrant work visa under USMCA for Canadian and Mexican citizens in listed professions.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The TN visa implements the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) preferential professional categories for Canadian and Mexican citizens. The list of qualifying professions (Appendix 2 to Annex 16-A of the USMCA) includes engineers, scientists, accountants, lawyers, architects, and many healthcare roles. TN is not dual-intent and is not a direct path to permanent residence.
Processing time
Canadians: same-day decision at port of entry. Mexicans: consular processing.
See source window: 1 days – 4 weeks →Government fees
Canadians at POE USD 56 filing. Mexicans DS-160 USD 185. I-129 change of status USD 1,015.
Typical duration
Up to 3 years; renewable indefinitely while activity continues.
Primary source
USCIS — TN NAFTA Professionals · U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Canadian or Mexican citizenship.
Job offer in a profession listed in USMCA Appendix 2 to Annex 16-A.
Beneficiary has the qualifications required for the listed profession (typically a bachelor’s or licence).
Temporary intent to enter the US (not dual-intent).
Common blockers
Offered role not matching a listed USMCA profession.
Filing a US green-card application that undermines non-immigrant intent.
Typical evidence
Employer support letter describing the role and matching USMCA category.
Proof of citizenship and relevant credentials.
Application pathway
Step 1
Employer prepares support letter
Letter matches duties to USMCA profession and confirms temporary intent.
Step 2
Apply at port of entry (Canadians) or consulate (Mexicans)
Canadians typically apply at a Class A POE; Mexicans apply at a US consulate.
Step 3
Work in TN status
Extensions filed via I-129 or at POE for Canadians.
Matches these professions
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Related routes
H-1B Specialty Occupation
Employer-sponsored non-immigrant visa for specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.
O-1 Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement
Visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, athletics (O-1A) or the arts/film/television (O-1B).
Frequently asked questions
Is the TN dual-intent?
No. Unlike H-1B and L-1, TN is not a dual-intent visa. Active green-card intent can affect admission or renewal; applicants typically plan any adjustment strategy carefully with counsel.
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