TN Visa: The US Work Visa for Canadian Professionals
The TN visa is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways for Canadian professionals to work in the United States. Created under NAFTA and continued under the CUSMA/USMCA agreement, it is reserved for citizens of Canada and Mexico in specific professional occupations, which makes it a category where Canadian applicants have a real advantage. In many cases, an eligible Canadian can obtain TN status in a single day at a US port of entry.
At Silver Immigration, our Montreal-based team helps Canadian professionals, and the US employers who hire them, prepare TN applications that get approved the first time.
What is the TN visa?
The TN (Trade NAFTA) category lets qualified Canadian citizens work in the US for a US employer in a pre-approved professional occupation. It is a non-immigrant work status: it is granted for up to three years at a time and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the underlying job and qualifications remain valid. Unlike the H-1B, there is no annual cap and no lottery, so you do not have to wait for a filing window.
TN visa requirements
To qualify for TN status, you generally need to show that:
- You are a citizen of Canada (permanent residents of Canada are not eligible).
- Your job is on the USMCA list of eligible professions (see below).
- You hold the degree, licence, or credentials required for that profession.
- You have a job offer from a US employer for a role that requires a TN professional.
- Your stay is temporary and you intend to work in the qualifying position.
TN visa eligible occupations (USMCA professions list)
The TN category covers roughly 60 professions across four groups. Your specific occupation and the minimum credential it requires are what determine eligibility. Common examples include:
| Profession | Typical minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| Engineer | Bachelor’s degree or provincial licence |
| Accountant | Bachelor’s degree or professional accounting designation (e.g. CPA) |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree or Post-Secondary Diploma + 3 years’ experience |
| Management Consultant | Bachelor’s degree, or 5 years’ experience in the field |
| Scientist (biologist, chemist, etc.) | Bachelor’s degree |
| Registered Nurse | Provincial/state licence or Licenciatura degree |
| Economist, Lawyer, Architect, Teacher | Degree and/or licence as specified |
| Graphic Designer, Technical Publications Writer | Bachelor’s degree or Post-Secondary Diploma + 3 years’ experience |
Not sure whether your job title fits a listed profession? This is the most common reason TN applications are refused. Book a free consultation and we’ll confirm your eligibility before you travel.
How to apply for a TN visa from Canada
Canadian citizens have a major advantage: you can usually apply directly at a US port of entry (land border or a US preclearance airport such as Montreal-Trudeau or Toronto Pearson) without first filing with a US embassy.
- Secure a qualifying job offer and a detailed support letter from your US employer describing the position, its professional nature, your credentials, salary, and length of employment.
- Assemble your evidence: proof of Canadian citizenship, diplomas and transcripts, licences, CV, and any credential evaluations.
- Present your application to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry, or have your employer file Form I-129 with USCIS in advance.
- Receive your TN admission, often the same day when applying at the border.
TN visa cost and processing time
Applying at the border is typically the fastest route, with a modest government fee and a decision on the spot. Filing Form I-129 through USCIS involves a higher fee and standard processing times, with premium processing available for an additional fee. (Confirm current CBP and USCIS fees before applying, as they are updated periodically.)
Can my spouse and children come with me?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply for TD (dependent) status. TD dependents may live and study in the US. Note that TD spouses cannot work on TD status. If your spouse also needs to work, we can look at their own work-visa options.
TN visa vs H-1B: which is better for Canadians?
| TN visa | H-1B visa | |
|---|---|---|
| Who qualifies | Canadian & Mexican citizens, listed professions | Any nationality, specialty occupations |
| Annual cap / lottery | None | Yes, capped and lottery-based |
| Processing | Often same-day at the border | Months; tied to filing season |
| Duration | 3 years, renewable indefinitely | Up to 6 years total |
| Path to green card | Possible, but requires planning | More directly designed for it |
For most eligible Canadians, the TN is faster and simpler. If your goal is permanent residence, we’ll help you plan the transition. Learn more on our H-1B visa and L-1 visa pages.
From TN visa to green card
The TN is a non-immigrant status, so pursuing a green card requires careful strategy to avoid “immigrant intent” problems. Many Canadians successfully move from TN to permanent residence through employment-based sponsorship. See our US green card page, and speak with us before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Is my profession on the TN list?
Only occupations on the USMCA list qualify, and each has a specific credential requirement. We review your job title and duties against the list during your consultation.
Can I renew my TN visa indefinitely?
Yes. TN status is granted in increments of up to three years and can be renewed with no fixed limit, provided you continue to meet the requirements.
How long does TN approval take at the border?
Often the same day. A well-prepared application is usually adjudicated on the spot by CBP.
Can my spouse work in the US on a TD visa?
No. TD dependents can live and study in the US but cannot work. Your spouse would need their own work status to be employed.
Does a TN lead to a green card?
It can, but it requires planning because TN is a temporary status. We help clients transition from TN to permanent residence.
What documents do I need?
Proof of Canadian citizenship, an employer support letter, diplomas/transcripts, professional licences, and a CV, at minimum.
Ready to work in the US? Our Montreal team helps Canadian professionals secure TN status quickly and correctly. Book your free consultation today.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. US immigration law changes frequently, so book a consultation for advice on your specific situation.
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