TN USMCA / CUSMA Professional Visas

Guide to USMCA Professional (TN) Visas

Overview

The nonimmigrant USMCA Professional (TN) visa allows eligible citizens of Canada and Mexico to work in the United States in prearranged professional-level business activities for U.S. or foreign employers. Permanent residents of Canada and Mexico are not eligible for TN visas.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a TN visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Citizenship: Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico.
• Profession: The profession must be on the USMCA list.
• Position Requirement: The U.S. position must require a USMCA professional.
• Prearranged Job: The applicant must have a full-time or part-time job offer from an employer. Self-employment is not permitted.
• Qualifications: The applicant must have the appropriate qualifications, including education or experience, for the profession.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Most professions require a baccalaureate (bachelor’s) degree.
• Experience cannot substitute for a bachelor’s degree if it is required.
• Some professions may accept alternative credentials or additional experience.

Visa Application Process

For Canadian Citizens

• No Visa Required: Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter the U.S. as a USMCA Professional but may apply for one at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Port-of-Entry Application: Canadians can apply for TN status at a U.S. port-of-entry.

When is a TN Visa Required?

• If living outside Canada with non-Canadian family members who will accompany them, a Canadian must obtain a TN visa for the family members to apply for TD visas.

For Mexican Citizens

• Visa Required: Mexican citizens must obtain a TN visa to request admission to the United States as USMCA professionals.

Steps to Apply for a TN Visa (Mexican Citizens)

1. Complete the Online Visa Application (Form DS-160)
   • Fill out the Form DS-160 online.
   • Print the application form confirmation page for the interview.
     
     
2. Upload a Photo
   • Upload a photo that meets the Photograph Requirements while completing Form DS-160. (A photo is not required if applying in Mexico.)

Gather Required Documentation

1. Passport
   • Valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay in the U.S.
     
     
     
2. Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) Confirmation Page
   

3. Application Fee Payment Receipt
   • If required to pay before the interview.
     
     
     
4. Employment Documentation
   • A contract or employment letter from the U.S. employer confirming:
     • Purpose of entry
     • Detailed description of business activities or job responsibilities
     • Length of stay
     • Educational qualifications or appropriate credentials
     • Compliance with DHS regulations and/or state laws
     • Arrangements for pay
       
       
       
5. Education and Work Experience Documentation
   • Degrees, diplomas, certificates, professional licenses, or membership in professional organizations.
   • Letters from former employers or business records if self-employed.

Additional Documentation May Be Required

A consular officer may request additional documents to determine qualification for the TN visa, such as proof of intent to depart the U.S. after employment.

Attend Your Visa Interview

• Interview: A consular officer will determine if you meet the visa requirements.
• Fingerprint Scans: Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are typically taken during the interview.
• Administrative Processing: Some applications may require further processing.

After the Visa Interview (Mexican Citizens)

• Visa Approval: Instructions will be given on how the passport with the visa will be returned.
• Processing Time: Review visa processing times for passport pick-up or delivery.

Additional Information

• Spouse and Children: Spouses and unmarried minor children can apply for TD visas to accompany or join the principal TN visa holder. Financial support evidence is required.
  • Canadian Citizen Family Members: Do not need visas but must meet port-of-entry requirements.
  • Non-Canadian Family Members: Must apply for TD nonimmigrant visas.
  • Mexican Citizen Family Members: Must apply for TD nonimmigrant visas.
  • Joining Family Members: Must show a valid Form I-94 from the principal TN visa holder.

Important Notes

• Visa Issuance: Visa issuance is not guaranteed; do not make final travel plans until the visa is obtained.
• Valid Visa in Expired Passport: A valid visa in an expired passport is still valid. Travel with both the expired passport containing the visa and a new valid passport.

List of USMCA Professionals