TN Visa for NAFTA Professionals Everything You Need To Know
Eligibility Requirements
The TN visa is available to citizens of Canada and Mexico who are qualified professionals under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). To be eligible for a TN visa, you must have an offer of employment from a US employer and meet certain educational and experience requirements. You must also be able to demonstrate that your job falls into one of the categories listed in NAFTA.
In addition, you must have a valid passport from your home country and proof of your qualifications such as diplomas or certificates. You must also provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the US.
Application Process
The first step in applying for a TN visa is to obtain an offer of employment from a US employer. Once you have an offer, you can begin the application process by submitting Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, along with supporting documents such as proof of qualifications and evidence of financial support.
You will also need to submit Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, which is used to track your entry and exit from the US. After submitting all required documents, you will need to attend an interview at a US consulate or embassy in your home country. If approved, you will receive a TN visa stamp in your passport.
Duration & Renewal
The TN visa is valid for up to three years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as you continue to meet all eligibility requirements. To renew your TN visa, you will need to submit Form I-129 again along with supporting documents such as proof of qualifications and evidence of financial support.
You may also need to attend another interview at a US consulate or embassy in your home country if requested by the consular officer. If approved, you will receive another TN visa stamp in your passport.
Traveling Abroad
If you are traveling abroad while on a TN visa, it is important that you obtain an ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorization prior to departure. An ESTA is required for all travelers entering the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). You can apply for an ESTA online at USA ESTA.
It is also important that you keep copies of all documents related to your TN visa application such as Form I-129 and Form I-94 with you when traveling abroad as they may be requested upon reentry into the US.