The TN (Trade NAFTA) visa is a special category of visa that allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the United States in specific occupations. The TN visa is very similar to the H-1B visa in that it allows for a period of initial stay of up to three years, with the possibility of extension for an additional three years.
There are over 60 occupations that qualify for the TN visa, including many professional jobs such as accountants, engineers, lawyers, and teachers. In order to qualify for the TN visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer in one of the qualifying occupations. The applicant must also meet the specific requirements for the occupation, which may include a bachelor’s degree or higher, or professional licensure.
Once the applicant has a job offer and has met the specific requirements for the occupation, the next step is to apply for a TN visa. The TN visa can be applied for at a U.S. consulate or embassy, or at a port of entry into the United States. The process for applying for a TN visa at a consulate or embassy is generally quicker and easier than applying at a port of entry, but either option is available to the applicant.
There are two main options for applying for a TN visa: the applicant can either file the application themselves, or they can hire a professional to assist with the application. There are pros and cons to both options, and the decision of whether to file the application oneself or to hire a professional to assist with the application depends on the individual applicant’s situation.
Filing the TN Visa Application Yourself
Filing the TN visa application yourself is the cheaper option, as professional fees for assistance with the application can range from $500 to $2000. Filing the application yourself also allows you to have more control over the process and the timeline, as you will not be reliant on someone else to complete the application and submit it on your behalf.
However, filing the TN visa application yourself also carries some risks. The TN visa application is a complex document, and even a small mistake can result in the application being denied. In addition, the applicant is responsible for ensuring that all of the required documentation is included with the application, and for ensuring that the documentation is accurate and up-to-date.
Hiring a Professional to Assist with the TN Visa Application
Hiring a professional to assist with the TN visa application is the more expensive option, but it also carries less risk. A professional who is experienced in filing TN visa applications will know what documentation is required and will be able to ensure that the application is complete and accurate. In addition, a professional can provide guidance and assistance throughout the process, which can be helpful for applicants who are unfamiliar with the TN visa application process.
The decision of whether to file the TN visa application oneself or to hire a professional to assist with the application is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. The best option for each applicant will depend on the individual’s circumstances.
Best TN Visa Experts to Consult with
There are a number of different TN visa experts that you can consult with when you are trying to decide whether to file the application yourself or hire a professional. Some of the best TN visa experts include:
• The Law Offices of J. DouglasBarron: The Law Offices of J. DouglasBarron is a law firm that specializes in TN visas, and they have a wealth of experience in assisting applicants with the TN visa application process.
• TN Visa Expert: TN Visa Expert is a website that provides information and resources for TN visa applicants. The website also offers a paid service that provides personalized assistance with the TN visa application process.
• VisaPro: VisaPro is a company that provides a range of immigration-related services, including assistance with the TN visa application process.
Contacting TN Visa Experts While Living in Mexico or Canada
If you are a citizen of Mexico or Canada, you can contact the Mexican or Canadian consulate for assistance with the TN visa application process. The consulate will be able to provide you with information about the TN visa, and they may also be able to assist with the application process.
Limitations and Benefits of TN Visa
The TN visa is a non-immigrant visa, which means that it is not a path to permanent residency or citizenship in the United States. The TN visa is also subject to the “two-year home residency requirement,” which means that holders of the TN visa must maintain a residence in their home country (Mexico or Canada) and must return to their home country for at least two years after their period of stay in the United States expires.
However, the TN visa does have some benefits. The TN visa allows for a period of initial stay of up to three years, with the possibility of extension for an additional three years. The TN visa is also a “dual intent” visa, which means that holders of the TN visa can apply for permanent residency in the United States without having to first return to their home country.
Documents Required to Apply for TN Visa
There are a number of different documents that you will need to submit with your TN visa application. The specific documents required will depend on the occupation that you are applying for, but some of the common documents that are required include:
• A job offer letter from a U.S. employer
• Proof of Canadian or Mexican citizenship
• A copy of your diploma or degree
• A copy of your professional license (if required for your occupation)
• A Resume
• A letter of recommendation from your current or previous employer (if applicable)
• A letter of intent outlining your plans to return to your home country after your period of stay in the United States
Applying for a TN Visa at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy
If you are applying for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy, you will need to schedule an appointment for an interview. The interview is generally a short meeting, and it is an opportunity for the consular officer to ask you questions about your application and verify the documents that you have submitted.
Last Words
The TN visa is a great option for Canadian and Mexican citizens who want to work in the United States in a qualifying occupation. The TN visa allows for a period of initial stay of up to three years, with the possibility of extension for an additional three years, and it is a “dual intent” visa, which means that holders of the TN visa can apply for permanent residency in the United States without having to first return to their home country.