US makes it easier for Canadians to get work permits

Under U.S. immigration laws, foreigners in certain occupations need H-1B visas to work in the United States. However, workers in British Columbia and across Canada need only a TN-1 visa, for which the application process is significantly less complicated than for the H-1B visa.

The TN-1 visa is preferential treatment for those linked to the North American Free Trade Agreement. The primary requirement is for the applicant’s employer to be based in the United States. The candidate must also be a professional in any one of a long list of occupations. 

What makes the TN-1 application easier?

The following advantages apply to this application: 

• An approved TN-1 application grants a visa valid for three years, renewable indefinitely. 
• The candidate may apply for this visa at the Canada-U.S. border, which is typically granted immediately. 
• The documentary procedures and requirements are significantly less arduous than for the H-1B visa. 

Additional criteria to meet

Professionals who are self-employed are not eligible for the TN-1 visa. They fall into another visa category. Potential candidates must also note that each application is for a single employer. If the planned employment involves more than one employer, a separate application must be submitted for each one. 

Only candidates who meet the following requirements will be eligible for TN-1 visas: 

• Applicants must have Canadian citizenship. 
• The candidate must show a job offer from a U.S.-based employer who has a position for someone with the professional skills of the applicant. 
• The Canadian applicant must meet the qualification or educational requirements for the position. 

Although minimal documentation is required to accompany a TN-1 visa application, Canadian citizens who consider such applications will want to ensure they learn which documents they need. Being prepared might help speed the U.S. immigration application process.