TN Category

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), established special economic and trade relationships among the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Under this agreement, the TN nonimmigrant classification allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to seek temporary entry into the United States to engage in professional business activities. A list of the specified professional activities under the USMCA can be found here.

Application Process

The procedures for obtaining TN status vary for Canadians and Mexicans citizens. A Mexican citizen must obtain a TN visa from a U.S. consulate before being eligible to apply for admission to the U.S. in TN status, whereas Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa requirement.

Canadian citizens apply for admission to the United States directly with Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection at a port of entry.

Hiring Department

As part of the application process, the hiring department must write a detailed TN support letter that the applicant will use to apply for admission to the U.S. in TN status. The letter should address/describe the following information, on letterhead, and be signed by the department head:

  • Job title

  • Detailed job description/duties

  • Duration of employment (anticipated length of stay not to exceed three years)

  • Educational qualifications or credentials that demonstrate the applicant's professional level status

  • Salary and benefits

  • Confirm that the applicant meets all licensing requirements, if applicable

Note: Always refer to Appendix 1603.D.1 to verify that the position and the individual qualify for TN status.

TN Applicants

Canadian Applicants

Canadian citizen can apply for admission in TN status directly at a U.S. port-of-entry by presenting the following supporting documentation:

  • Proof of Canadian citizenship which may include:

    • Birth certificate

    • Passport

    • Certificate of naturalization

  • Offer of Employment (Detailed letter from the employer as described above under Hiring Department)

  • Evidence of qualifications (degree/diploma/certificate, including transcripts). If obtained outside of North America, must include an accredited evaluation and English language translation. Degree must relate to the job.

  • Proof of experience/qualifications, if applicable

  • Processing fee

If traveling with dependents:

  • Marriage license

  • Birth certificate or adoption record

  • TD visa for non-Canadian dependents

Note: TN applicants must be prepared to provide evidence of educational qualifications or credentials that demonstrate the applicant's professional level status, if asked. Canadians in TN status may depart and re-enter the U.S. any time during their TN stay.

Mexican Applicants

Mexican applicants should consult the ISSS regarding the application process.