The TN visa, under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), allows qualified Canadian and Mexican professionals to enter the U.S. temporarily to work in designated occupations with U.S. employers. Applicants must have a prearranged job offer, meet the professional qualifications, and present required evidence such as degree credentials and employment letters. Self-employment is not permitted under TN status and all work must be tied directly to the approved job.
TN Legal Requirements & Compliance
To maintain TN status, individuals must:
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Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico
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Hold a position listed in Appendix 1603.D.1 and meet education or experience criteria
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Work in a prearranged job for a U.S. employer, full-time or part-time
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Adhere to status and employer-specific employment only; any work outside this scope is prohibited
Status may be obtained via consular processing (Mexican citizens) or at the border (Canadian citizens), or through a change of status for individuals already in the U.S.
TD Dependent Visas: Spouses & Children
TD visas allow the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of TN professionals to accompany them to the U.S.
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Spouses (TD status) are not authorized to work, even remotely or unpaid; work requires separate status such as H‑1B or F‑1.
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Children under 21 may attend school full-time (K–12 or college), but cannot work under TD status.
TD status is directly linked to the TN holder’s status, and any violation by the principal or failure to extend may affect the family’s lawful presence.
Compliance is Critical
TN and TD statuses are strictly regulated. Violations—such as working without authorization or failing to renew—can lead to loss of legal status and impact future immigration eligibility. All employment must align with the TN visa terms, and unauthorized work by dependents is prohibited.
How The Legal House Assists
We provide comprehensive support for TN visa holders and their families:
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Eligibility analysis and profession review
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Preparation of TN visa applications or change of status
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Documentation of qualifications, job offers, and employer support
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Guidance on maintaining compliance, status renewals, and extensions
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Assistance with TD dependent visas, including family I‑539 filings
At The Legal House, we ensure TN professionals and families maintain legal status and compliance while working and residing in the U.S.