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What is the TN visa?

The TN visa is a temporary visa that allows qualified professionals from Canada, Mexico, and the USA to work in the United States based on a specific agreement, without an automatic path to residency.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 11, 2025
2 min read
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The TN visa is a temporary visa option that was originally created under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and remains in effect following the transition to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). It allows professionals from certain sectors, who qualify according to a specific list of professions, to work temporarily in the United States.

This visa was developed to facilitate the mobility of professionals among the signatory countries, namely Canada, Mexico, and the United States. To apply for the TN visa, the professional must prove that they have a job offer in one of the authorized fields, in addition to meeting the educational and professional requirements demanded by the list of professions.

Generally, candidates with degrees that correspond to the job requirements or with proven practical experience may be eligible for this category. It is important to remember that, although it is a work visa, the TN is temporary in nature, meaning it does not automatically provide a path to permanent residency.

Therefore, professionals working under this visa must be attentive to the rules and deadlines established by U.S. immigration authorities. Staying updated on current laws and regulations is essential to avoid legal complications and to ensure that all procedures are properly followed.

Since the process involves verifying specific requirements and presenting documents that prove both the job offer and the qualification for the profession, it is recommended that interested parties seek guidance from immigration specialists. This practice helps avoid falling victim to scams or promises of guaranteed results, which in reality cannot be assured.

Complying with U.S. immigration law and having clear and accurate information will make all the difference in managing the process. In summary, the TN visa is an excellent opportunity for qualified professionals who wish to explore temporary work opportunities in the United States, always within legal parameters and with due caution regarding all necessary documentation and deadlines.

Learn more about TN

Eligible countries
Canada & Mexico (USMCA)
Duration
3 years
Extension
Unlimited (3 years each)
Processing
At the border or consulate
All about TN

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.

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What is the TN visa?

The TN visa is a temporary visa that allows qualified professionals from Canada, Mexico, and the USA to work in the United States based on a specific agreement, without an automatic path to residency.

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