TIPS AND NEWS

October 7, 2026

TN visa: how Mexican and Canadian professionals can work in the U.S.

By: The Look Jobs Team

TN is a work status created by the trade agreement among the United States, Mexico and Canada (USMCA). It allows Mexican and Canadian citizens to work in the U.S. in certain professions, with a simpler process than other visas. Citizens of other countries, such as Brazil, cannot use TN.

Who can apply

• Being a citizen of Mexico or Canada (residence is not enough).
• Having a job offer from a U.S. employer in one of the professions listed in the agreement.
• Having the qualifications required for the profession: in many cases a bachelor's degree; some professions accept other credentials set out in the agreement.

Examples of listed professions

Engineers, accountants, computer systems analysts, registered nurses, physicians (in specific roles), scientists, economists, architects, management consultants, university teachers and others. The full list is in the agreement and on the official websites.

How to apply

• Mexican citizens: apply for the TN visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy in Mexico, with the employer's letter describing the job, salary and duration, plus proof of qualifications.
• Canadian citizens: generally do not need a visa and can request TN status at the border or at an airport with U.S. preclearance, bringing the same documents.

How long it lasts

TN status can be granted for up to 3 years at a time and can be renewed, as long as the work remains temporary. There is no annual cap. TN does not lead directly to a green card: people who want to live permanently in the U.S. need a different process.

Tips

• The employer's letter is the key document: it must describe the job exactly as the listed profession.
• Bring diplomas and transcripts, translated into English when needed.
• Be wary of anyone charging to "guarantee" a TN: the immigration officer decides.

On Look Jobs, you can create your résumé in English in your candidate area and search for jobs in the U.S.

Official sources

• USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services): uscis.gov
• Department of State (visas and consulates): travel.state.gov
• Department of Labor (H-2A, H-2B and PERM): dol.gov and flag.dol.gov
• H-2A and H-2B jobs registered with the government: seasonaljobs.dol.gov

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Rules, timelines and fees change: always check the official websites. Updated October 2026.