TN North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) Professionals
The nonimmigrant NAFTA Professional (TN) classification allows citizens of Canada and Mexico, engaged in temporary professional activities as defined by NAFTA, to work in the United States in prearranged business activities for U.S. or foreign employers. TN status is requested by the visiting professional. The TN classification cannot be used to employ staff or faculty in permanent positions. Bard sponsors scholars in this category for temporary research and teaching positions. A comprehensive description of this visa option can be located on the U.S. Department of State website.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
You are a citizen of Canada or Mexico (permanent residents of Canada and Mexico are not able to apply for TN status to work as a NAFTA professional).
Your profession and the purpose of your visit qualifies under the regulations.
You have a prearranged full- or part-time job with a U.S. employer.
You have and can demonstrate the qualifications to practice in the profession.
If You Are from Canada
Canadian citizens wishing to enter the United States in TN status are not required to apply for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate. In order to enter the United States in TN status, Canadian citizens may request TN status at the time of admission to the United States. To make this request, you will be required to present the following documentation to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent at the port of entry where you enter the United States:
Valid passport / proof of Canadian citizenship.
A contract or letter of employment in the United States that demonstrates:
Your purpose of entry;
A detailed description of your anticipated business activities or job responsibilities;
Your anticipated length of stay in the United States;
Your educational qualifications or appropriate credentials demonstrating professional status; and
Arrangements for your pay.
Documentation of your credentials, proving that you meet the minimum education and/or work experience requirements, inclusive of degrees, diplomas, certificates, professional licenses, and /or membership in professional organizations. Letters from former employers and/or business records can be provided to demonstrate your experience in the field.
If You Are from Mexico
Mexican citizens wishing to visit the United States in TN status must apply for a visa, at a U.S. embassy or consulate, in order to enter the United States. The following documents will be required to apply for TN status and secure the visa stamp required to enter the United States:
Valid passport: must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States.
Nonimmigrant visa application, Form DS-160 confirmation page, and payment receipt if you are required to pay before your interview.
Photo: you will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the photograph requirements. (A photo is not required if you are applying in Mexico.)
A contract or letter of employment in the United States that demonstrates:
Your purpose of entry;
A detailed description of your anticipated business activities or job responsibilities;
Your anticipated length of stay in the United States;
Your educational qualifications or appropriate credentials demonstrating professional status;
Evidence of your compliance with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations and/or state laws; and
Arrangements for your pay.
Documentation proving that you meet the minimum education and/or work experience requirements, inclusive of degrees, diplomas, certificates, professional licenses, and /or membership in professional organizations. Letters from former employers and/or business records can be provided to demonstrate your experience in the field.