TN Visa: Work in the U.S. as a Professional from Canada or Mexico

A complete guide to eligibility, requirements, and how to apply under USMCA (formerly NAFTA).

TN Visa for Canadian & Mexican Professionals

The TN Visa allows qualified professionals from Canada and Mexico to work legally in the United States under the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). It is designed for individuals in approved professional occupations such as engineering, accounting, IT, science, architecture, management consulting, and other listed fields.

Work in the United States Through a Professional Visa Category

The TN classification is one of the fastest and most flexible U.S. work visa options available to North American professionals. It supports cross-border employment while allowing U.S. employers to access skilled talent efficiently and lawfully.

Who the TN Visa Is For

The TN Visa is suitable for:

  • Professionals from Canada and Mexico who have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a qualifying occupation.

  • U.S. companies seeking to hire qualified professionals from Canada or Mexico for temporary professional roles.

Key Advantages of the TN Visa

The TN Visa offers several benefits compared to many other work visa categories:

  • No annual visa cap or lottery system

  • Faster processing, especially for Canadian citizens

  • Status granted for up to three years at a time

  • Renewable as long as eligibility continues

  • Designed specifically for professional occupations

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for TN status, the applicant must:

Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico
Have a job offer from a U.S. employer
Work in an occupation listed under the USMCA professional categories
Possess the required degree, credentials, or professional qualifications for that occupation

Why Understanding TN Requirements Matters

Although the TN process can be straightforward, approvals depend heavily on how the job role, duties, and qualifications match the specific professional category. Proper documentation and clear alignment between the position and USMCA requirements are critical to success.

Start Your TN Visa Process the Right Way

Applying for a TN Visa or planning to work with a U.S. employer involves specific legal requirements and documentation.

Our Initial Immigration Assessment Consultation is your first step toward understanding your eligibility, reviewing your situation, and mapping out the best strategy for success. We’ll discuss your goals, assess your qualifications, and explain the process and options available for your case.

Book a consultation with our immigration experts to get personalized guidance and clarity on your next steps.