NAFTA Professional Worker Visas
Victims of certain criminal activities that happened in the United States or violated US laws may be able to petition for U nonimmigrant status. In order to be eligible, you must have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse due to the criminal activity and possess information concerning that criminal activity. Law enforcement must also certify that the victim has been, is being, or is likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity.
If you are a citizen of a foreign country and you wish to enter the United States, you need to first obtain either a nonimmigrant visa (for temporary stays), or an immigrant visa (for permanent residence). If you are a citizen of Canada or Mexico, you may be able to apply for the NAFTA Professional (TN) visa, and you (and your immediate family) would be able to live and work in the U.S.
The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) created special economic and trade relationships between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and through this relationship, citizens of Canada and Mexico can work in the United States in prearranged business activities on a nonimmigrant NAFTA Professional (TN) visa. Permanent residents of Canada and Mexico are not eligible for TN visas.
Who Qualifies for the NAFTA Professional (TN) Nonimmigrant Status?
Canadians and Mexicans may be allowed to work in the United States as NAFTA professionals if:
They are a citizen of Canada or Mexico;
Their profession is on the NAFTA list;
Their position in the United States requires a NAFTA professional;
The applicant will work in a prearranged full time or part time job for an employer. Self-employment is not permitted;
The applicant has the qualifications, meeting the specific requirements, education, and/or experience, of the profession.
With some exceptions, each profession requires a Bachelor’s degree as an entry level requirement. If a Bachelor’s degree is required, experience cannot be substituted for that degree. In some professions, an alternative to a bachelor’s degree is listed. For a complete list of professions with minimum education requirements and alternative credentials, click here.
Requirements for Canadian Citizens
If you are a Canadian citizen, then you are not required to apply for a TN visa at a US consulate, although a visa can be issued to qualified Canadian TN visa applicants upon request.