Cleveland TN and NAFTA Visas Attorney

Understanding TN / NAFTA Visas in Ohio

Since January 1, 1994, the governments of the United States, Canada, and Mexico have all participated in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This economic treaty was executed with the purpose of removing tariffs and other barriers to the flow of trade and investment among the three member countries on the promise that this would foster greater prosperity for the citizens within the free trade region. One of the results of the implementation of NAFTA is that it creates a unique type of non-immigrant visa for Mexican and Canadian citizens who want to work in the U.S. on a temporary basis.

What is TN non-immigrant status?

If you are planning to travel to the United States in order to participate in a prearranged business activity on a part- or full-time basis, then you may be eligible for the TN non-immigrant visa. You must be a citizen of either Canada or Mexico and must work in one of the professions included in the NAFTA regulations. The position you are planning to fill must be one that requires a NAFTA professional, and you must possess all of the necessary qualifications of your position. Under most circumstances, you will have to attend an interview with an official at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Once approved, you may be permitted to stay in the United States for a period of up to three years, though it is possible to file for an extension of stay. Your spouse and any unmarried children under the age of 21 can apply for TD status, which would allow them to accompany you or come to join you during your stay in this country. They can study during this time but will not be permitted to work. Generally, the eligibility requirements for Mexican citizens are stricter than those for Canadians, as Canadians can typically enter this country without a visa.

Assistance with the Visa Application

At Brown Immigration Law, our Ohio immigration lawyers serve clients in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and internationally, and we have a wide range of experience in all types of immigration cases. Let us put our 70 years of combined immigration experience to work helping you obtain the visa you need to legally live and work in the United States.

Contact our office today for a consultation and to get started on your case.