Scholars & Employees

TN Application Process

Department Invitation Letters for the TN Status

In order to invite a Canadian or Mexican citizen for employment under the TN status, the sponsoring department must provide a detailed offer of employment letter which includes the following information: 

  • Affirming Appendix 1603.D.1 profession of the applicant. List of NAFTA professions.
  • Describing the duties the applicant will perform in the U.S.
  • Referencing the anticipated length of stay (no more than three years).
  • Reviewing the applicant’s educational qualifications or credentials.
  • Demonstrating that the applicant has professional level status.
  • Describing the arrangements for payment for the services to be rendered.
  • Confirming that the applicant meets all license requirements (if applicable).
  • Please also refer the TN applicant to this page: Document Checklist for the TN Applicant.

The employee must bring the following documents to the border:

  • Employment letter from Jefferson. For employees of Canadian entities entering the U.S. as part of contracts with U.S. employers, a copy of the contract also should be provided in addition to a letter from the U.S. client describing the nature of the work.
  • Evidence that the employment is in one of the occupations listed in Appendix 1603.D.1.
  • Evidence that the individual has the required credentials for this profession (diploma, license, etc.).
  • When applying for TN status at port of entry, the candidate must be prepared to state that the purpose of entry into the U.S. is temporary in nature.  The candidate must also pay the filing fee of (US$50 as of 11/2000) in U. S. funds, plus any fees for any accompanying dependents.

The employment letter template is available at the Office of International Affairs.

For consultation on inviting a Canadian or Mexican citizen in the TN status, contact:

Lesley Tyson
Assistant Director
Office of International Affairs
215-503-4023