If I have both Canadian and Brazilian passports, can I enter with the Brazilian one and apply for the TN later?

When we talk about the TN visa for the United States, we are referring to an option available under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA/USMCA) for citizens of Canada and Mexico who wish to work in certain specialized professions in the U.S. The purpose of this visa is to allow qualified professionals to perform their activities temporarily, in a relatively fast and simplified manner.

It is important to emphasize that the TN visa is exclusive to Canadian and Mexican citizens. If you are a citizen of both countries – that is, if you hold Canadian and Brazilian passports – your eligibility for the TN visa is tied to your Canadian citizenship. This means that, to access the benefits of the TN visa, you must use your Canadian passport.

If you choose to enter the United States with your Brazilian passport, the immigration officer will consider you Brazilian, and consequently, you will not have authorization for the simplified processing that the TN visa provides to Canadian or Mexican citizens.

Furthermore, changing the manner of entry into the country can lead to complications. By using the Brazilian passport to enter as a tourist or under another category, and then trying to convert or apply for the TN visa, you may face additional challenges, including the need to go through a visa process with longer and more rigorous procedures at a U.S. consulate.

Therefore, it is always recommended to use the passport that reflects the citizenship that gives you eligibility for the desired benefit. Remember that following U.S. immigration laws and regulations is essential.

If there are doubts about the best strategy to adopt or if your case presents particularities, it is prudent to seek information from reliable sources or consult professionals specialized in the area. It is also important to be cautious about offers that promise guaranteed results or miracle solutions, as they can lead to risks and complications in your immigration process.

In summary, if your goal is to apply for the TN visa, use your Canadian passport, because it is with it that you meet the conditions required for this benefit. This way, you will be following the correct guidelines and avoiding future problems with your immigration status in the United States.

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.