The TN Visa is a class of visas created by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) when it went into effect in 1994. The TN Visa is modeled after the H1-B Visa but is intended to create favorable conditions available only to citizens of Mexico and Canada.
TN Visas last for one year and can be renewed indefinitely. Unlike H1-B Visas, which are highly competitive due to the small number available, there is no annual cap on the number of TN Visas that can be issued. Holders of TN Visas are allowed to bring their spouses and children (unmarried, under age 21) along as derivative beneficiaries.
To be eligible for a TN Visa, one must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico. The applicant must also hold a four-year degree from an accredited university or have twelve years of work experience in a field. The applicant must have a job offer and be coming to the United States to fill a position that requires the applicant’s educational or employment background.
Another requirement is that the profession the applicant seeks employment in be one which is recognized under the TN Visa regulations. Also, applicants must show that the period of their stay in the United States on the TN Visa has a definite end point, and the applicant does not intend to establish residency through his/her TN Visa.
If you are a Mexican or Canadian national and currently have a confirmed job offer complete with a defined title/duty and salary, please contact us to learn about your eligibility for a TN Visa. An experienced immigration attorney in Nevada will explain the non-residency requirements, analyze your situation, and help you determine if you qualify for a TN Visa.