Can I have TN and then, after one year, apply for L-1?

When we talk about visas in the United States, it is important to understand that each category has specific requirements and its own rules. The TN visa, created under NAFTA (or USMCA) for citizens of Mexico and Canada, allows entry and stay to perform certain professional functions.

The L-1 visa is intended for intracompany transfers, that is, when a foreign company transfers an employee to work at a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in the U.S., provided that the professional has worked for a continuous period of at least one year within the last three years outside the country.

Therefore, if you are currently under the TN visa, there is no legal restriction preventing you from later applying for a change to the L-1 visa, as long as you meet all the requirements for this latter category. This means, for example, that if you have worked for the same company abroad for the minimum required period and the relationship between the companies is well defined, you may be eligible for the transfer through the L-1.

Each case is evaluated individually, and approval will depend on a detailed analysis of your professional history and the organizational structure of the company. It is worth emphasizing the importance of strictly following United States immigration laws. It is essential to consult official sources and seek specialized immigration professionals to avoid complications or falling victim to scams promising impossible results.

Migration from one status to another requires care with documentation and compliance with all legal requirements; therefore, being well informed and seeking proper guidance is always the best path for a smooth transition.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.