Practice Area
TN NAFTA Visa
Work visa for Canadian and Mexican professionals.
The TN visa (formerly NAFTA, now under USMCA) allows Canadian and Mexican citizens in designated professional occupations to work in the United States. It's one of the fastest and most straightforward work visa options available.
Canadian and Mexican professionals often expect a process measured in years. TN status can frequently be obtained far faster — the real constraint is documentation, not quotas.
TN Visa Basics
The TN visa offers a streamlined path for professionals from Canada and Mexico:
Available to Canadian and Mexican citizens only
Must work in one of the USMCA-designated professional occupations
Requires a job offer from a U.S. employer
Valid for up to 3 years, with unlimited renewals
Canadians can apply directly at the border (no petition required)
Mexican citizens apply at a U.S. consulate
Qualifying Professions
The USMCA includes a specific list of qualifying professions, including:
Engineers (all types)
Scientists and researchers
Accountants and economists
Computer systems analysts
Management consultants
Teachers and professors
Medical professionals (physicians, dentists, pharmacists)
And many more — contact us to check if your profession qualifies
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a green card while on TN status?+
Technically, the TN is a non-immigrant visa without dual intent. However, there are strategies to transition to green card pathways while on TN status. We can advise on the best approach for your situation.
How quickly can I get a TN visa?+
Canadians can often receive TN status the same day at a port of entry. Mexican citizens need to apply at a consulate, which typically takes a few weeks.