TN Visa Status for Mexican Citizens
General Overview:
- Unlike the H-1B visa category, there is no annual numerical limitation for TN visas.
- No Labor Condition Application ("LCA") required.
- Mexican citizens must obtain a TN visa stamp prior to admission to the U.S. (Canadian citizens are exempt from the TN visa stamp requirement).
- Work authorization issued in one (1) year periods.
- TN visa status may be renewed in one (1) year periods. No limit on the number of renewals.
Basic Requirements for a TN Visa Status:
1. Be a citizen of Mexico.
2. Have an offer of employment for a professional occupation listed under NAFTA.
3. Satisfy the educational and/or experience requirements for the occupation listed under NAFTA.
TN Visa Application Package - Basic Items for Mexican Citizens:
- Employer Support Letter.
- Degrees, diplomas, certificates and other related credentials.
- Receipt for USD $100 visa processing fee.
- Form DS-156, Application for Nonimmigrant Visa.
- Form DS-157, Supplemental Application (for male applicants age 16-45).
- Two passport style photographs.
TN Visa Application Process for Mexican Citizens:
1. Submit application to U.S. Consulate.
2. Attend interview at U.S. Consulate for TN visa stamp.
3. Apply for admission to the U.S. at border port-of-entry.
Approval, Extensions, & Changes of Employer:
- Approvals are issued for a one (1) year period evidenced on an I-94 card.
- May extend TN status by filing a petition within the U.S. at the Service Center.
- If TN visa stamp still valid, may extend at U.S. border port-of-entry. Otherwise, will need to file for a new TN visa stamp at U.S. Consulate.
- May change employers by filing a petition within the U.S. at the Service Center. Cannot work until petition is approved.
- May also request change of employers by filing new application at U.S. Consulate.
Green Card (Lawful Permanent Residence) Available:
- A TN applicant may not possess immigrant intent, i.e., may only seek temporary entry into the U.S. without the intent to establish permanent residence.
- However, an applicant may intend to immigrate to the U.S. in the future and file for green card based on employment or family relationship.