Moving Abroad

TN Visa for USMCA Professionals: Canadian and Mexican Citizens

2 min read

In this guide
  1. What is TN status?
  2. How Canadians and Mexicans apply
  3. What you should prepare
  4. Step-by-step
  5. Common mistakes
  6. Frequently asked questions
    1. Can a Canadian permanent resident get TN status?
    2. Is TN the same as an H-1B?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

Quick answer: TN status allows eligible citizens of Canada and Mexico to work temporarily in the United States in certain professional occupations under the USMCA. Canadian citizens generally apply at a port of entry, while Mexican citizens need a visa from a US consulate.

Many Canadians and Mexicans ask whether they can work in the US without going through the H-1B system. The TN classification is built for that purpose. This guide explains the basics and the key difference between the two countries.

What is TN status?

TN is a temporary work classification created through the trade agreement between the United States, Canada and Mexico. It covers professionals in occupations listed in the agreement. You must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico to use it. Permanent residents of those countries do not qualify on that basis alone.

How Canadians and Mexicans apply

Citizenship How to apply
Canada Apply for TN status at a US port of entry. A US employer may also file a petition with USCIS in some situations.
Mexico Apply for a TN visa at a US consulate, then seek admission at the border.

What you should prepare

  • Proof of citizenship.
  • A job offer or letter from the US employer describing the professional duties.
  • Evidence of your qualifications for the listed profession.

The exact documents and list of professions are published by US government agencies, so confirm the current list before you travel.

Step-by-step

  1. Check that your occupation is on the USMCA professional list.
  2. Confirm your qualifications match the requirements for that profession.
  3. Get a letter from the US employer.
  4. Apply at the port of entry (Canadians) or at a consulate (Mexicans).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any job qualifies. Only listed professions count.
  • Mixing up the process. Canadians and Mexicans follow different steps.
  • Arriving without an employer letter. It is the core of the application.

Frequently asked questions

Can a Canadian permanent resident get TN status?

TN is for citizens of Canada and Mexico, so residency alone is not enough.

Is TN the same as an H-1B?

No. They are separate classifications with different rules.

Key takeaways

  • TN is for Canadian and Mexican citizens in listed professions.
  • Canadians apply at the port of entry; Mexicans apply at a consulate.
  • Prepare an employer letter and proof of qualifications.

Last updated: October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Confirm details with USCIS or a qualified immigration attorney.

Sources

  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): TN Treaty National Professionals

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