Does the TN have an annual cap, like the H-1B?

No. The TN visa is not subject to an annual numerical cap, unlike the H-1B. For many eligible professionals, this is one of the practical advantages of the TN.

The H-1B operates under an annual visa ceiling, and when demand exceeds supply, a lottery comes into play: some qualified applicants are simply not selected in that cycle. The TN does not work that way. There is no lottery and no fixed number of approvals per year.

TN issuance depends on the applicant qualifying under one of the professions covered by the North American free trade agreement and demonstrating the credentials required to perform that occupation. Once those requirements are met, there is no limited slot to compete for.

This does not eliminate the need to prepare a thorough petition and supporting documentation. Since eligibility criteria and the lists of qualifying professions can change, it is worth confirming the current requirements with USCIS or with a specialist before filing.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.