Information for WHOI Sponsors

Procedure for entering U.S. in TN status

Please note that the procedures for obtaining TN status differ significantly for Mexican citizens from those of Canadian citizens. Listed are the procedures for Canadian citizens, please contact the Foreign National Advisor for processing information for Mexican citizens. The Foreign National Office does not provide any processing assistance, but will provide the foreign national with a detailed letter that specifies the job title, proposed duties, educational qualifications or credentials, confirmation that the applicant meets all licensure requirements, arrangements for payment for services, length of stay, and statement that the employment is temporary.

Canadian citizens seeking admission to the U.S. in the TN category must present the case for admission at a U.S. Class A port-of entry, U.S. airport handling international traffic, or A U.S. pre-clearance/pre-flight station. No prior petition, labor certification, visa or other approval is required of Canadian citizens seeking admission as TN nonimmigrant. Original documents or certified copies must be presented.

The TN application consists of the following:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship (birth certificate, a Canadian passport, or a certificate of Canadian naturalization.
  
• Evidence that the employment is within one of the NAFTA specified-occupations.
  
• Evidence of possession of the necessary credentials.
  
• A statement that the purpose of the entry is temporary.
  
• A detailed letter from the employer.
  
• Filing fee in U.S. dollars (in the form of a personal check or money order)

Procedures to file an Extension of stay in TN status:

The documentation required for an extension of TN status is the same as that required for the initial application. Canadians can apply for an extension either at a U.S. Canadian pre-flight or port-of-entry inspection facility while entering the U.S. or by filing an application with the USCIS in the U.S. if they do not wish to travel to Canada. To process an application with the USCIS file:

• Form I-129 signed by the U.S. employer
  
• Filing fee in the form of a check or money order payable in U.S. dollars
  
• Letter from U.S. employer including same information as in original letter specifying new dates
  
• Proof of eligibility, including documentation that form basis for TN status
  
• Proof of current immigration status (provide copies of both sides of the Form I-94)
  
• Form I-539 if dependents are currently in U.S. and proof of their current TD status