NAFTA

TN Visa 2025

TN Visa 2025: Work Legally in the U.S. Under the USMCA Agreement

Dreaming of working in the United States as a Canadian or Mexican professional? The TN Visa (officially the USMCA Professional Visa) is your gateway to temporary employment in over 60+ eligible professions, from engineering to healthcare. In this guide, we’ll simplify the TN Visa process, eligibility criteria, and answer burning questions like “Can I convert my TN Visa to a Green Card?”

Key Takeaways:
✅ TN Visa = USMCA Visa: Replaced the old “NAFTA Visa” in 2020 but retains similar benefits.
✅ Fast Processing: Canadians can apply at the border same-day; Mexicans via U.S. consulates.
✅ No Annual Cap: Unlike the H-1B, there’s no limit on TN Visas issued yearly.


What is a TN Visa?

The TN Visa (Trade NAFTA) is a non-immigrant work visa created under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). It allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the U.S. in pre-arranged professional roles.

NAFTA to USMCA: What Changed?

  • The TN Visa originated under NAFTA (1994) and transitioned to USMCA on July 1, 2020.

  • No major changes to eligibility—the professions list, requirements, and process remain similar.

  • Still informally called the “NAFTA Visa” by many.


TN Visa Eligibility: Who Qualifies?

To apply, you must:

  1. Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico (Permanent Residents do not qualify).

  2. Work in a USMCA-approved profession (e.g., engineer, accountant, scientist).

  3. Have a valid job offer from a U.S. employer.

  4. Meet education/licensing requirements for your role.


TN Visa Professions List: What Jobs Are Eligible?

The USMCA lists 63+ approved professions. Here are top categories:

Profession Examples
Engineers Civil, Mechanical, Software Engineers
Scientists Biologists, Chemists, Physicists
Medical Professionals Dentists, Pharmacists, Registered Nurses
Educators College/University Professors
Accountants CPAs, Financial Analysts

 Full list: Review the official USMCA TN Professions List.


TN Visa Requirements: Documents Checklist

  1. Proof of Citizenship: Canadian/Mexican passport.

  2. Job Offer Letter: Detailing role, salary, and duration (up to 3 years).

  3. Qualifications: Degree/diploma + transcripts (translated if needed).

  4. Licenses: For regulated professions (e.g., nursing, engineering).

  5. TN Visa Application Form: DS-160 (for Mexicans).


TN Visa Processing Time & Costs

  • Canadians: Apply directly at a U.S. port of entry (same-day approval).

  • Mexicans: Apply via U.S. consulate (processing takes 2-4 weeks).

  • Fees: 160USD(DS−160)+160USD(DS−160)+6 USD (Mexican visa issuance fee).


FAQs: Your TN Visa Questions Answered

1. Can I convert my TN Visa to a Green Card?

Yes, but cautiously. TN Visa is non-immigrant, so pursuing a Green Card (e.g., via employer sponsorship) requires careful planning to avoid visa denial.

2. What’s the difference between TN Visa and H-1B?

  • TN Visa: Only for Canadians/Mexicans; no annual cap.

  • H-1B: Open to all nationalities; limited to 85,000/year.

3. Can Canadian PRs apply for a TN Visa?

No. Only citizens of Canada/Mexico qualify.

4. How long can I stay in the U.S. on a TN Visa?

Up to 3 years initially, renewable indefinitely in 3-year increments.

5. Does Canada have a TN Visa equivalent?

No. The TN Visa is for Canadians/Mexicans to work in the U.S. only.


Why Work with an Immigration Consultant for Your TN Visa?

While Canadians can apply at the border, even minor errors (e.g., incorrect job description) lead to rejection. A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) helps you:
✅ Draft a bulletproof job offer letter.
✅ Prepare for border interviews.
✅ Avoid costly delays or bans.

“My TN Visa was denied at first due to missing documents. CTIVCI resubmitted my case, and I got approval in 2 days!” – James L., Software Engineer


Ready to Work in the U.S.? Let’s Get Your TN Visa Approved!

Don’t risk denial over paperwork mistakes. CTIV, Toronto’s trusted immigration experts, streamline your TN Visa application with:

  • USMCA Compliance Review

  • Job Offer & Document Preparation

  • Border Interview Coaching

 Free TN Visa Consultation:: 416-857-0100   Email Us 

Give us a call 416-542-1000  Text/Facetime or whatsapp:416-8570100  are here to help you!

  • Your relatives can live, study and work in Canada if they become permanent residents of Canada. You can sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada if you’re at least 18 years old and a:

  • Canada offers several business immigration options for individuals who want to start or invest in a business in the country. These options include the following: