TN status

TN status or TN visa is a special non-immigrant status in the United States, Canada, and Mexico that offers a unique, expedited work authorization to a citizen of these countries. It bears a similarity, in some ways, to the US H-1B visa, but also has many unique features. Within the TN set of occupations, a United States, Canadian, or Mexican citizen can work in the one of the other two countries for up to three years, but does not have the right to apply for permanent residence. The permit may be renewed indefinitely.

The visa category "Professionals Under the North American Free Trade Agreement", also known as a TN (Treaty NAFTA) visa, is available only to citizens of Canada and Mexico, under the terms of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Beginning in 1988, individuals practicing one of the professions identified in the Canada - United States Free Trade Agreement are able to obtain TN status for legal work in the United States and Canada, creating freedom of labor movement. TN status is recognized in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which began in 1994.

A person may be eligible for TN status, if:

Once TN status is granted, it is good for up to three years, but only for the specific employer for which it was originally requested. Changing employers will require to start from scratch with a new application. If employment with a single employer is desired for more than three years, it may be renewed indefinitely.

Prior to October 16, 2008, the initial period of stay for a TN status holder was up to one year only.

Renewal is accomplished either by a mail-in renewal within the United States, or by returning to the border and, in effect, presenting a new application.

However, the TN status may be renewed indefinitely in three-year increments, but it is not a permanent visa and if U.S. immigration officials suspect it is being used as a de facto green card, then they may elect to deny further renewals. The set of occupations permitted to petition for TN status is also quite a bit more limited than for the H-1B visa.

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