The TN visa is for Canadian citizens and professionals who wish to work in the United States. This visa under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) enables qualified professionals to work in the U.S. for a particular employer in a skilled occupation. It may seem complicated, but obtaining a TN visa in 2025 is a simple process with the right paths.
Who Qualifies for a TN Visa?
The TN visa is for Canadians and Mexicans in certain professional sectors. These include professions including engineers, accountants, lawyers, scientists, and teachers. The U.S. government has a complete list of qualified occupations, so check to see if your work is included in this category as the first step.
To qualify, you need a job offer from a U.S. employer for a position that qualifies under one of the approved professions. Secondly, you have to provide evidence that you are qualified, usually through a degree, qualification, or experience. Our TN visa services thrive on helping applicants assess their situation when applying for TN nonimmigrant status such as if they meet the criteria or not.
How the Application Process Works
Canadians and Mexicans have slightly different application processes for the TN visa. Canadians must apply directly at a U.S. port of entry (like an airport or land border crossing). The process typically includes submitting the necessary documents, speaking to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer, and getting a determination on the spot. Most Canadians do not require a prior application through a U.S. consulate.
Mexican professionals, in contrast, need to apply first for a TN at a U.S. consulate in Mexico. This means scheduling an interview, submitting the required paperwork, and being approved before you can travel to the U.S. Once approved, the applicant can enter the U.S. and start working.
It can be a confusing process, particularly for first-time applicants. That means if you wish to get an application, you can book a consultation with our immigration lawyers.
What Documents Do You Need?
Qualifying for the TN visa means you need a letter from your U.S. employer listing your job title, duties, and salary. This letter should also describe how your position meets the criteria for the TN visa program. You must also be ready to provide documentation of your qualifications, such as diplomas, transcripts, licenses, or certifications. You’ll also need a valid passport and proof of Canadian or Mexican citizenship.
Since missing or incorrect documentation can cause denials, having your paperwork reviewed before submission by an experienced immigration lawyer can make a significant difference. If you would like help preparing your application, see our TN visa services for expert assistance.
How Much Does It Cost?
The TN visa fee is different depending on where you are applying — either from a U.S. border or a consulate. Applied at the port of entry, Canadians pay the fee found on the first page of the I-94 application, usually $56, then an additional $6, to be switched from an I-94A form of entry to an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
Mexican nationals applying at a United States consulate are required to pay a $185 visa application fee. If accepted, they may also be required to pay additional fees based on their situation. The fees that professional help may charge can be anywhere from $1000-$3000, depending on how complex the case is.
Since errors and errors can result in expensive hold-ups or rejections, an immigration attorney can help browse the procedure, as well as maximize your opportunities of being approved. That professional help might mean contacting us to discuss your case.
How Long Can You Stay on a TN Visa?
With a TN visa, you can reside in the U.S. for three years, and renew it indefinitely, as long as you still qualify. Renewals also, need up-to-date paperwork to prove your job and employer are still the same.
If you expect to stay beyond this period, it is important to start your renewal process early. Missing deadlines or failing to submit the correct paperwork can upend your ability to work in the U.S. We also provide immigration services to prepare your renewal papers or to guide you on how to renew them.
Get Assistance With Your TN Visa Application:
The TN visa process involves preparing various documents, and any mistake, no matter how small, can lead to avoidable delays. Whether you are applying for the first time or seeking to renew your status, our team at The Law Office of Olena Manilich is here to assist you.
Contact us today! We have experience with both small-scale and large-scale immigration cases.
