TN USMCA Professional Workers Visa Attorneys in Dallas, TX
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as NAFTA, created special economic and trade relationships for the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Under this agreement, the TN nonimmigrant visa allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to temporarily work in the U.S. in designated professional roles.
You may qualify if:
- You are a citizen of Canada or Mexico;
- Your profession is included in the USMCA;
- The U.S. position requires a USMCA professional;
- You will work in a prearranged full-time or part-time job with a U.S. employer; and
- You have the qualifications to practice in the profession in question.
Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens residing outside the U.S. do not need a TN visa from a U.S. consulate. You can establish TN eligibility when seeking entry to the U.S. at a CBP-designated U.S. port of entry or pre-clearance/pre-flight station.
You must provide the following documentation to the CBP officer:
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- Letter from your prospective employer detailing items such as your professional role in the U.S., purpose of employment, length of stay, and educational qualifications
- Credentials evaluation (if applicable), and payment of any applicable fees
Alternatively, a prospective employer may file Form I-129 with USCIS on behalf of a Canadian citizen who is outside the U.S. for pre-approval. This can make the admission process smoother. Once approved, you can present proof of Canadian citizenship and the USCIS approval notice to CBP for entry.
Mexican Citizens
Mexican citizens must obtain a TN visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico before entering the United States. This process includes:
- Completing Form DS-160
- Preparing required documents (passport, detailed job offer letter, qualifications)
- Scheduling and attending a visa interview at a U.S. consulate
Once you are approved, you may present your TN visa and supporting documents at a U.S. port of entry or pre-clearance/pre-flight station.
How Long Can You Stay on a TN Visa?
TN visas are generally granted for up to 3 years.
Extending Your Stay
If you wish to remain in the U.S. beyond your initial period, you must seek an extension of stay. If you are in the U.S., your employer needs to file Form I-129 on your behalf.
Alternatively, you may leave the U.S. before your status expires, and then, once abroad, you may apply at a port of entry using the same documentation procedures as your initial application.
TD Status for Family Members
Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may accompany you on TD nonimmigrant status. They cannot work but may study in the U.S, and their TD status cannot exceed your TN status.
If you extend your TN stay while in the U.S., eligible TD family members can also extend their status without leaving the country. Mexican TD dependents who travel abroad after an extension must obtain a new TD visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate to return.
Why Choose Coleman Jackson, P.C. For Your TN Visa?
Our experienced Dallas-based business immigration attorneys guide Canadian and Mexican professionals through every step of the TN visa process so that you can confidently come to the U.S. as a good neighbor to do business and contribute your skills.
We provide comprehensive support, including:
- Determining eligibility for TN USMCA professional status
- Preparing and reviewing documentation for CBP entry or consulate visa applications
- Assisting Canadian applicants with optional Form I-129 pre-approval filings
- Guiding Mexican applicants through DS-160 completion, document preparation, and visa interviews
- Advising on extensions of stay and TD status for accompanying family members
- Ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration requirements for employers and employees
Get Started on Your TN Visa Today
Contact the Dallas-based TN Visa attorneys at Coleman Jackson, Professional Corporation at (214) 599-0431 for professional assistance with your TN visa.
