Residents of Los Angeles and other nearby areas of California may want to learn more about the meaning of the TN visa and those who qualify as TN NAFTA professionals for non-immigrant classification and entry into the United States.
According to USICS, NAFTA stands for the North American Free Trade Agreement. It was first created as a special trade agreement between the United State, Canada and Mexico.
Who is eligible as TN under this agreement?
TN professionals may seek admission to the U.S. as non-immigrants. Professions include teachers, lawyers, accountants, engineers, pharmacists, scientists and others. You may be eligible if you are a citizen of Canada or Mexico; have a profession that qualifies; the position in the United States requires a NAFTA professional; you have prearranged full or part-time work, and you are qualified to practice the profession stated.
Citizens of Canada
Canadian citizens, who are not immigrating, are usually admitted the U.S. without a regular visa. On the other hand, evidence of professional status is a requirement for the TN visa. There is no requirement to apply at a consulate; you can apply at a port-of-entry.
You can present documents to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry or at a pre-clearance station. You will be providing the following:
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- Letter from your prospective employer
- Credentials (if needed)
- Applicable fees
An employer may also file on behalf of the prospective employee. Form I-129, Petition for Non-immigrant Workers will be the choice.
Citizens of Mexico
You will need to obtain a visa to enter the U.S. with TN non-immigrant status. You will be applying for the TN visa directly at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico. More information about employment immigration can be found online.
Citizens of Canada and Mexico may come the U.S. to work as certain professionals with a TN visa. Proof of citizenship in your home country, as well as a promise of employment, will be requirements.