INTERNATIONAL STUDENT AND SCHOLAR SERVICES

For Canadian and Mexican Citizens Only

The TN classification was created as part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to facilitate the entry of Canadians and Mexicans to the U.S. to engage in professional activities. Only certain occupations qualify. Qualified occupations can be viewed at Appendix 1603.D.1.

NOTE: Effective October 16, 2008 a final rule extended the period of initial admission and extension of stay that can be requested by a TN non-immigrant under NAFTA for three years. Prior to this rule change, the maximum period of admission or extension of stay was one year at a time.

Admission of Canadians differs from that of Mexicans. To be eligible, Canadians must show evidence of nationality, at least a B.A. or a B.S. in the field or profession (included on the professional job series NAFTA list), and a job offer from an employer in the U.S. The procedure for admission of Mexican citizens to the U.S. in TN status can be found in the State Department Instructions on Applying for a TN. 

Dependents of TN holders are given TD status. These dependents may attend school in the U.S. but may not accept employment.

NOTE: There are other non-immigrant visas that permit non-immigrants to work in the United States which may be more appropriate to the type of position.