TN Visas

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Documentation

The documentation required of Canadian and Mexican citizens applying for TN status is basically the same; however, Mexican citizens must apply for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate in order to be admitted to the United States. Canadian citizens, on the other hand, are not required to have a TN visa. The following documents are required of both Canadian and Mexican citizens whether they are applying for an initial period of stay, an extension of stay, or a TN visa:

  • Proof of citizenship
    • Passport valid for six months beyond the period of stay requested (Mexicans)
    • Valid passport, birth certificate or certificate of Canadian naturalization (Canadians)
  • Evidence that the job offered is in one of the occupations listed in 8 CFR 214.6. A copy of the appendix with the specific occupation highlighted is sufficient to satisfy this requirement.
  • A detailed letter from the employer that includes the following information:
    • The applicant’s purpose for entering the United States. The letter should emphasize “temporary” employment.
    • An affirmation that the applicant’s occupation is included on the list of approved TN occupations (Appendix 1603.D.1).
    • A description of the duties to be performed.
    • The specific dates of the proposed TN employment.
    • A summary of the applicant’s qualifications (education, experience, etc.) confirming that he/she is qualified to work in a professional level position.
    • A statement explaining the compensation arrangement for the TN employment.
  • Evidence establishing that the applicant has the credentials required to perform the job. This includes originals or certified copies of diplomas, transcripts, licenses, certificates, etc.

Documentation for health care occupations

TN nonimmigrants entering the United States as nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, medical technicians/technologists, or speech language pathologists and audiologists must obtain a certificate from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools or an equivalent independent credentialing organization in order to qualify for TN employment.

Nurses must be licensed in the state of intended employment. TN physicians can only engage in teaching or research and cannot be involved in direct patient care.