Work visas for Canadian and Mexican professionals
Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), citizens of Canada and Mexico can work in the US in TN status in a list of designated professions. There is no annual cap and no lottery, and the process is often much faster than other work visas. A TN visa lawyer can help match your job to the right profession before your appointment.
Who qualifies?
- Citizenship of Canada or Mexico (permanent residents of those countries do not qualify)
- A job offer from a US employer, or a contract with a US company
- A listed profession, such as accountant, engineer, computer systems analyst, management consultant, scientist, pharmacist, registered nurse, economist, lawyer or teacher at certain levels
- The required credentials, usually a bachelor’s degree or a specific license for that profession
How to apply
Canadian citizens can usually apply directly at a US port of entry or pre-clearance location, with no visa stamp needed.
Mexican citizens apply for a TN visa at a US embassy or consulate, then present it at the border.
Applicants already in the US can sometimes apply through USCIS instead.
Length of stay
TN status is granted for up to three years at a time and can be renewed with no fixed limit, as long as the job continues and your intent remains temporary. Spouses and children can accompany you in TD status but cannot work.
TN and green cards
TN status requires temporary intent, so planning a green card while in TN status needs care. We help you time any green card process to protect your status and travel.
Talk to a TN visa attorney
A clear job description matched to the right profession is key. Book a Zoom consultation before your border or consular appointment.
This page is general information, not legal advice.