WORK VISAS TO THE UNITED STATES

NAFTA VISA TO THE UNITED STATES

Citizens of Canada and Mexico may enter the United States to work at a professional level in a specialty occupation with a US employer. The profession must be recognized under NAFTA, and the Canadian or Mexican citizen must have the necessary qualifications of the profession, which includes a Bachelor or higher degree or its equivalent in work and experience. Self-employment is not permitted in the United States; however, the applicant may work part-time.

Applicants must have a job offer in the United States and prove their country of citizenship and their academic credentials. Applicants are not required to obtain any necessary licenses to perform their job duties prior to entry to the United States.

US NAFTA VISA (TN) BASIC REQUIREMENTS

The NAFTA Visa requires applicants to obtain a TN Visa prior to entry and show that the purpose of their stay is for employment related to their profession. Basic requirements include that the applicant be able to show that he or she possesses a job in the United States and possesses the educational requirements, or has the alternative credentials necessary for the position, as well as the required work experience. Applicants may also be required to meet certain health and character requirements.

US NAFTA VISA (TN) ENTITLEMENTS

The applicant can live and work in the United States for an initial period of stay of three years, with indefinite three-year extensions.

Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his or her stay require derivative visa status. Spouses and children of visa holders may study in private or public schools in the United States without obtaining a Study Visa. Spouses and children may apply for work authorization if seeking employment for their duration of stay in the United States.