For Businesses

TN Visa

TN Visa: Work Opportunities for Canadian & Mexican Professionals

The TN visa provides a fast and efficient way for Canadian and Mexican professionals to work in the United States. Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), this visa allows skilled professionals to contribute their expertise to U.S. businesses in designated occupations. 

If you are an employer looking to hire qualified talent or a professional seeking work in the U.S., IBP Immigration Law will guide you through the TN visa process with expert legal support. 

Start Your TN Visa Application

What is the TN Visa?

The TN visa is a non-immigrant work visa for citizens of Canada and Mexico who have a job offer in the U.S. in an approved TN profession under USMCA (formerly NAFTA). 

This employer-specific visa allows companies to hire professionals in fields such as engineering, healthcare, IT, education, finance, and science. 

 

Who Qualifies for the TN Visa?

Employers Must: 

  • Offer a job in an approved TN profession 
  • Provide a detailed job offer letter proving compliance with TN visa regulations 
  • Confirm that the role requires specialized knowledge or skills 

Employees Must: 

  • Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico 
  • Have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a TN-eligible profession 
  • Meet the educational or experience requirements for the position (bachelor’s degree, certifications, or equivalent work experience) 
Key Benefits for Employers
  • Fast Processing Times – TN visas can be approved in as little as one day for Canadian applicants at the port of entry 
  • No Annual Cap – Unlike the H-1B visa, there is no numerical limit on TN visas 
  • Streamlined Hiring Process – No labor certification or lottery system required 
Key Benefits for Employees
  • Work Authorization – Legally work for a specific U.S. employer 
  • Ease of Renewal – The TN visa is valid for up to three years and can be renewed indefinitely 
  • Family Inclusion – Spouses and children under 21 can accompany the visa holder on TD visas 
TN Visa Requirements

To qualify for the TN visa, applicants must meet specific criteria set by USMCA: 

  • Job Offer in an Approved TN Profession – The position must be on the official TN occupation list 
  • Educational Credentials or Work Experience – Some professions require a degree, certification, or equivalent work experience 
  • Employer Sponsorship – The employer must provide a detailed employment letter outlining job duties, duration, salary, and qualifications 
TN Visa Filing Fees and Costs
  • Application Fee at U.S. Consulate: $160 
  • Port of Entry Processing Fee (for Canadians): Approximately $50 
  • Form I-129 USCIS Filing Fee (for status extensions in the U.S.): $460 
  • Premium Processing (Optional for I-129 filings): $2,805 (15-day expedited processing) 

IBP Immigration Law provides transparent pricing and customized payment plans for employers and professionals. 

How to Apply for the TN Visa

For Canadian Citizens: 

  1. Gather Required Documents – Job offer letter, proof of education, and supporting materials 
  2. Apply at a Port of Entry – Present documents at a U.S. border crossing or airport preclearance location 
  3. Receive TN Visa Approval – If approved, begin working in the U.S. immediately 

For Mexican Citizens: 

  1. Submit Application at a U.S. Consulate – Apply for a TN visa stamp before entering the U.S. 
  2. Attend an Interview – Provide supporting documentation and job offer letter 
  3. Enter the U.S. Upon Approval – Start working for the sponsoring employer 

For Employees Already in the U.S.: 

  1. Employer Files Form I-129 – Apply for TN status extension with USCIS 
  2. Wait for USCIS Decision – Standard processing takes 2-4 months, or 15 days with premium processing 
TN Visa Processing Times
  • Port of Entry (Canada): Same-day processing 
  • U.S. Consulate (Mexico): 1-2 weeks 
  • USCIS Processing (I-129 Petition): 2-4 months (15 days with premium processing) 

IBP Immigration Law helps expedite applications by ensuring all documentation is complete and USCIS-compliant. 

How IBP Immigration Law Can Help

For Employers: 

  • Ensure Job Offer Compliance – We review job descriptions to meet TN visa eligibility 
  • Prepare Employer Support Letters – Draft and optimize required documentation 
  • Avoid Delays & Rejections – Ensure full compliance with USCIS and Department of State guidelines 

For Employees: 

  • Application Review & Optimization – Ensure all documents meet TN visa requirements 
  • Guidance on Filing at the Border or Consulate – Understand the best approach based on nationality and location 
  • Ongoing Support for Renewals – Assistance with visa extensions or job transitions 

Unlock Cross-Border Opportunities with the TN Visa

The TN visa is one of the fastest ways for Canadian and Mexican professionals to work in the United States. Whether you’re an employer looking to hire top talent or a professional pursuing career opportunities, IBP Immigration Law provides expert guidance every step of the way. 

  • Schedule a Consultation to discuss your TN visa application 
  • Explore More Resources by reading our blogs or watching our videos 
  • Start Your Application by sending us your case for a direct consultation 

At IBP Immigration Law, we help bridge the gap between businesses and global talent, ensuring a smooth and successful TN visa process.