Who is Eligible for TN status?

The TN classification is available to Canadian and Mexican citizens who seek to enter the U.S. on a temporary basis to work in a professional-level job under provisions of the North American Free Trade Agreement. The procedures and information outlined in this section apply only to Canadian citizens. The process for Mexican citizens to apply for TN status involves additional steps not described here. If you have questions about TN status for a citizen of Mexico, contact the Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) for assistance.

The TN classification can be used by a UW department to employ classified, professional/exempt, and academic staff for part-time or full-time appointments. The position must be a profession included in the NAFTA Professional Job Series List and the beneficiary must hold at least a baccalaureate degree unless an alternative credential is specified. A visa screen is additionally required for certain healthcare professionals.

TN status may be requested for up to one year and may be renewed annually. Although the regulations do not limit the number of years that the TN may be used, TN is a nonimmigrant status. The beneficiary must establish to the satisfaction of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that the employment opportunity is both temporary and short-term. If the position is an academic appointment eligible for UW sponsored Permanent Residence, the H-1B is a more suitable visa alternative.