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International Student and Scholar Support

TN

The TN visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the United States in designated professional occupations under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Universities frequently use the TN visa to hire faculty, researchers, and specialized staff in eligible fields.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico.
  • Have a job offer in an approved professional occupation, such as a professor, scientist, or engineer.
  • Possess the necessary credentials, such as a bachelor’s degree or higher, required for the position.
  • Demonstrate that the job falls under the list of approved TN professions outlined in the USMCA agreement.

Application Process

For Canadian Citizens:
  1. Obtain a job offer letter detailing the job title, duties, salary, and duration of employment.
  2. Gather supporting documents, including proof of qualifications (diplomas, certifications, licenses, etc.).
  3. Apply directly at a U.S. port of entry or pre-clearance location by presenting required documents to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.
  4. If already in the U.S., the employer may file Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request TN status.
For Mexican Citizens:
  1. Obtain a job offer letter.
  2. Apply for a TN visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico by submitting Form DS-160 and attending an interview.
  3. If approved, enter the U.S. with the TN visa and supporting documentation.

Duration & Extensions

The TN visa is initially granted for up to three years, with unlimited renewals in three-year increments, provided the applicant continues to meet eligibility requirements.

Dependents (TD Visa)

Spouses and children (under 21) of TN visa holders may apply for a TD visa. While TD visa holders can live in the U.S., they are not eligible to work.

Advantages of the TN Visa

  • No annual cap on the number of TN visas issued.
  • A straightforward application process, especially for Canadian citizens.
  • Unlimited renewals, allowing long-term employment in the U.S.
  • No requirement for employer sponsorship through the Department of Labor.

Additional Resources

For more information, visit the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

If you have questions about the TN visa process at our university, please reach out to our immigration support team at ois@sc.edu. 

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