Is the TN faster than the H-1B?

For those who qualify, the TN visa is typically faster and simpler to obtain than the H-1B. The difference is not about a guaranteed timeline, but rather the structure of each process.

The H-1B is a highly competitive route that goes through a lottery, in addition to an annual cap on available slots. When demand exceeds supply, many petitions do not advance in that cycle at all, adding waiting time and uncertainty. The TN does not depend on a lottery or that annual cap, which tends to make the path more straightforward for eligible professionals.

The TN is designed for citizens of Canada and Mexico and is grounded in the North American free trade agreement, covering a specific list of occupations. The H-1B, on the other hand, covers specialty occupations more broadly, with additional review steps. For this reason, even though it is generally faster, the TN is not automatically the better choice:

• It requires the applicant to fit within one of the eligible occupations.
• It is limited to citizens of Canada and Mexico.
• It is temporary in nature and tied to a specific work purpose.

The recommendation is to compare your profile and intended position before deciding. For current timelines and requirements, consult USCIS or an immigration specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.