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Certain classes of Canadian and Mexican workers coming
to the U.S. to work may be eligible for a shortened
visa process or completely avoid the application process in
certain cases.
For more information on Mexican workers, click here.
Canadian Workers:
Depending on the position in question, Canadians working
in the U.S. may be eligible for one of the following:
(A) a shortened
visa application process
(B) certain NAFTA
exceptions to work visas
(C) H-1 visa alternative
status (TN Status)
(D) L-1 visa alternative
status
(A) Shortened
visa process for Canadian specialty workers or intracompany
transferees (H-1B, H-2B,
L-1) requires:
- petition approval
- proof of Canadian citizenship to enter and work during
the duration of their status
- Part two, the visa application, is NOT required.
(B) NAFTA Exceptions:
Canadian consultants, sales professionals or others who are
contributing to free trade under the new NAFTA rules
(C),(D) TN status
allows the worker to avoid the visa application process by
proceeding directly to a port of entry and presenting some
or all of the following documents:
- Evidence of Canadian citizenship
- Written proof of your occupation
- In some cases, copies of diplomas or licenses
- Evidence of the profession listed under approved positions
under NAFTA
Disadvantage
of this process: these cases cannot be appealed like
traditional work visas (i.e. H-1,
L-1) can if application
is denied.
Who is NOT eligible: E-1 and
E-2 treaty traders and
investors are required to apply for a visa.
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