US Visa for Mexican and Canadian Professionals

The nonimmigrant North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) Professional (TN) visa allows Canadian and Mexican citizens, as NAFTA professionals to work in the United States. Permanent residents, including Canadian permanent residents, are not able to apply to work as a NAFTA professional.

ELIGIBILITY:
  • Applicant is a citizen of Canada or Mexico
  • Profession is on the NAFTA list
  • Position in the U.S. requires a NAFTA professional
  • The applicant is to work in a prearranged full-time or part-time job, for a U.S. employer. Self employment is not permitted
  • The applicant has the qualifications of the profession


The requirements for Canadians and Mexicans wishing to enter the US on the TN visa are different.

Canadian citizens:
  • 1. A request for TN status.
  • 2. A copy of the applicant's college degree and employment records which establish qualification for the prospective job.
  • 3. A letter from the applicant’s prospective U.S.-based employer offering the applicant a job in the US, which is included on the NAFTA list.
  • 4. A U.S. $50.00 fee.


Mexican citizens:
  • 1. First, the prospective employer must file a labor condition application.
  • 2. Then, the applicant's prospective employer must file an I-129 Petition for Non-Immigrant Workers with the USCIS.
  • 3. After the petition has been approved, the applicant must apply for a non-immigrant visa at a US Embassy or Consulate in Mexico.