Learn about the TN Visa

What Is The TN NAFTA Visa?

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) created a TN classification (TN NAFTA Visa) for eligible professionals to live and work in the U.S. This visa is valid for up to one year at a time with an unlimited number of renewals. Despite its short-term nature, TN NAFTA Visas have become extremely popular due to the low cost and fast application process.

Under NAFTA, the TN NAFTA Visa (TN1 NAFTA visa) enables the following people to work up to one year at a time:

Canadians citizens to work in the U.S.
American citizens to work in Canada
Mexican citizens to work in the U.S.

The TN Visa Expert Kit can be used in all three of the above scenarios.

Eligible NAFTA Occupations are listed in NAFTA Appendix 1603.D, otherwise known as the NAFTA Job List.

Applying For The Initial TN Visa And TN Visa Renewals

The initial TN NAFTA Visa must be obtained in person at a valid Port of Entry, as applications by mail are not allowed.

TN Visa Renewals can either be obtained at the border or via mail. TN Visa Renewals applied for by mail have additional Tn Visa Renewal forms to be completed and the cost is higher.

Scrutinized NAFTA Occupations

There are some NAFTA Occupations in the Job List that the Immigration Officer scrutinizes in more detail than others. You can see the list here.If your occupation is in this category, make extra certain that your visa application paperwork is completed properly.

TN Visa Border Interview

A major factor to your success is determined by the interview at the border. Since you are applying in person for this visa, the U.S. Immigration Officer can ask you questions regarding your application and your intent. Being prepared and knowing what to expect can make the difference. Take the necessary steps to ensure you successfully obtain your TN Visa to live and work in the U.S.

You Cannot Apply At All Border Crossings

There are numerous border crossings, but not all of them can issue a TN Visa. Ensure you apply for a TN classification at a U.S. Class “A” Port of Entry.

Since your goal is to ensure you are granted the TN Visa, improve your chances by learning about which borders process the most TN applications. The TN Visa Expert Application Kit shows you which borders have higher TN-1 approval rates, and more importantly how to properly prepare you for the border interview.

TN Visa Employer Letter: A Key Component Of The TN Visa Application

In addition to the border interview, the success of your TN Visa Application hinges on the strength of your TN Visa Employer Letter. Through it, you must demonstrate that you meet the eligibility criteria set forth by NAFTA.

The TN Visa Employer Letter is not the job offer letter. The TN Visa Employer Letter is a letter for your TN Visa Application that is specifically written to the Immigration Officer explaining how you and the job meet the qualifications of the TN Visa.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jacob Sapochnick

Author Jacob Sapochnick serves as the Managing Partner/CEO of a prominent law firm that focuses on immigration law. Boasting an extensive legal background spanning over a decade, he adeptly merges his enthusiasm for law with cutting-edge technology to aid clients worldwide in their journey to immigrate to the United States.