How to Apply for TN Status: Canadians vs Mexicans

The steps differ depending on your citizenship. Both routes can lead to the same TN status, but the paperwork and the risk of a refusal at the border are different.

Canadian citizens

Canadians do not need a visa. They can apply for TN status at a port of entry, at a designated airport with pre-clearance, or through a petition filed by the employer with USCIS.
At a port of entry, the officer reviews the documents and decides on the spot. A refusal can be difficult to reverse the same day.
An employer-filed petition can be a better route when there are questions about the profession or the person’s history, or when the person is already in the United States and wants to change status.

Mexican citizens

Mexican citizens need a TN visa from a U.S. consulate before entering.
The applicant files the visa application, pays the fee and attends an interview with the job offer letter and credentials.
After admission, status is granted for the period shown on the I-94 record.

Changing status inside the United States

A person already in the United States in another status can ask USCIS to change to TN with a petition filed by the employer. This avoids a border visit but requires filing early and being patient.

Admission period

TN admission is generally up to three years. Renewals can be requested at the border, through a consulate or with a petition, depending on the person’s situation.

What to bring to the border or the interview

The employer letter and any contracts.
Original degrees, transcripts, licenses and evaluations.
Proof of citizenship.
Evidence that you plan to return home after the temporary job.

TN visas guide

How our firm helps with TN visas

We confirm that your profession and degree fit the TN list.
We prepare the employer letter so the job description matches the profession.
We advise whether to apply at the border or through a petition.
We plan a green card path without risking TN renewals.

Situations we handle

Canadian and Mexican professionals
Border refusals
Renewals and dependents
Workers shifting to H-1B or a green card

Why clients choose our firm

A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
Russian-language service for clients and families.
Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with tn visas

Every case has its own facts. Request a consultation and we will review your situation, options and timeline.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.