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Immigration Lawyers for TN Visas in Boston for Certain Mexican and Canadian Professionals

Table of Contents

    What is a TN Visa?

    The TN Visa category was established by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), of 1994 (today the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)). A TN visa allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to be admitted to the US temporarily to engage in “business activities at a professional level” in certain professions, for one or more employers.

    Some of the professions that qualify for a TN visa include scientists, engineers, architects, economists, lawyers, accountants, pharmacists, dentists, nutritionists, therapists, veterinarians, nurses, and teachers (see full NAFTA professions list).

    Most of the NAFTA professions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. If this is required, experience is not a substitute for the degree.  For some professions, experience can be required in addition to the bachelor’s degree (see list of professions with minimum education requirements and alternative credentials—Appendix 1603.D.1 of NAFTA Chapter 16).

    Who is Eligible for a TN Visa for the US?

    To be eligible for TN nonimmigrant status or a TN visa, you must:

    • Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico (permanent residents of Canada and Mexico are not eligible);
    • Have a profession that qualifies under the TN visa regulations;
    • Have a full-time or part-time job or an employment offer in the United States that requires a NAFTA professional; (you may not be self-employed); and
    • Be qualified to practice in the profession required by the job which is the basis of the application.

    TN Visa requirements for Canadian Citizens:

    Generally, Canadian citizens are not required to have a TN visa in order to enter and work as a NAFTA professional.  Rather, Canadian citizens may apply for entry as a TN non-immigrant at a U.S. designated port of entry.  If a Canadian citizen prefers to have a TN visa stamped in their passport, he or she can obtain it at a consulate upon filing the proper application with supporting documents.

    When does a Canadian citizen require a TN visa?

    Canadian citizens who reside in a third country with a non-Canadian spouse and/or children who plan to come with family to the United States as a NAFTA professional, will need a TN visa in order for the family members to be eligible to apply for derivative TD visas.

    TN Visa requirements for Mexican Citizens:

    All Mexican citizens are required to have TN visas in order to be admitted to the U.S. under TN nonimmigrant status.

    Do TN Petitions Qualify for Premium Processing?

    Yes, premium processing is available for TN petitions that may be filed with USCIS by employers seeking TN status for a prospective or current employee.   Premium processing provides for expedited processing of certain petitions.  With a request for premium processing, the USCIS guarantees processing of the petition within 15 calendar days or it will refund the premium processing service fee and continue to expedite the process.

    This, however, does not mean that you will necessarily receive an approval or denial notice within this time, but merely that USCIS will respond within this time.  A response can also include a request for additional evidence, a notice of intent to deny, the decision to open an investigation for fraud or misrepresentation, etc.

    If the petition requires submitting additional evidence or responding to a notice of intent to deny, a new 15 calendar day period will begin when the USCIS receives the requested evidence or response.

    Duration of a TN Visa

    The TN visa may be granted for as long as the employment offer requires it, up to a maximum of 3 years, and as long as the beneficiary does not have immigrant intent.  The CBP officer at the port-of- entry (for Canadian citizens) or the consular officer (for Mexican citizens) will determine the length of the TN employee’s authorized period of stay.   If the TN visa holder decides to change employers, they will be required to present a new TN application.

    The TN visa, unlike the H-1B or L-1 visas, is not a dual intent visa and the visa holder must maintain “non-immigrant” intent.  However, this factor does not prevent an employer from filing an LCA (Labor Condition Application) “Perm” and an I-140 immigrant visa petition for the TN visas holder.

    TN Visa Renewal /Extension

    TN visa status may be extended indefinitely in increments of up to 3 years, as long as the job offer is still in place and the TN status holder has maintained his or her nonimmigrant status.

    While employers may not file the initial TN visa petition for Mexican nationals with USCIS, they may however apply for the Mexican national’s TN visa renewal.  A Mexican national may also renew their TN visa at a point of entry in addition to a U.S. consulate / embassy.

    Note: If a person renews the TN visa several times, the government may question the person’s non-immigrant intent and deny further extensions of the TN visa.  It is recommended to speak with a qualified immigration lawyer if your plans change and you believe you will remain in the U.S. permanently.

    Family Benefits of a TN Visa

    Children under 21 years of age and spouses of  a TN visa holder may be eligible to apply for TD nonimmigrant status, regardless of whether they are accompanying or “following to join” the TN visa holder.  Bear in mind that you must show the ability to financially support your family in the U.S. if you plan on bringing them.

    Spouses and children are allowed to study in the U.S., but not permitted to work.  The TD status for spouses and children cannot last longer than the period of time granted to the TN visa holder.

    Note: If a TN visa holder applies for an extension of stay at the end of their admission period, any eligible family member under TD status may also apply to extend their status without leaving the U.S.

    If a Mexican TD dependent travels abroad after the approval of an extension of stay and their TD visa is expired, they will be required to apply for a new TD visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate to be allowed back into the United States in TD status.

    Documents Needed for a TN Visa

    The following documents are needed to apply for a TN Visa whether with USCIS, at a consulate / embassy, or at a point of entry, and originals must be shown at the interview if requested:

    • A Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements).
    • Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page for a U.S. consulate petition  (Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport)
    • Receipt of Application fee payment,  if you are required to pay before interview for a consulate petition
    • Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements. (A photo is not required if you are applying in Mexico.)
    • Contract of employment in the U.S. or job offer letter confirming your future employment in one of the accepted professional occupations listed in Appendix 1306.d.1 of NAFTA Chapter 16.  Specifically, the letter should include:
      • Purpose of entry;
      • A detailed description of your job responsibilities or business activity
      • Anticipated length of stay in the U.S.;
      • Educational qualifications or appropriate credentials demonstrating your professional status;
      • Evidence of your compliance with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations and/or state laws; and
      • Your salary or payment terms
    • Documents proving that you possess the minimum education and/or work experience requirements set forth in Appendix 1603.d.1 of NAFTA chapter 16 – Education evidence include degrees, diplomas, certificates, professional licenses, and /or membership in professional organizations.
    • Evidence of work experience include letters from former employers. If you were self-employed, provide your business records (i.e. financial statements, taxes, etc.)

    Process to Apply for a TN Visa

    There are different processes to get a TN visa depending if you are a Canadian or Mexican national.

    If you are a Canadian National:

    Once you have a job offer/employment contract documentation from prospective employer, you have 3 options to apply for the TN visa

    1. You may apply at a port of entry:
    • Bring your TN supporting documentation and original documents to the Canada – U.S. border or to Pre-Flight Inspection at a Canadian airport;
    • There, US immigration officers will review the application and issue an I-94 card if approved

    You may apply for a TN visa at a consulate:

    Following the same process as for Mexican nationals, if you prefer to do consulate processing and having the visa stamped on your passport as opposed to getting your visa application reviewed at the border.

    Your prospective employer may file a TN application with USCIS:

    A prospective TN employer may also file a TN application on behalf of a Canadian citizen who is outside the United States by submitting Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker to USCIS.

    Upon approval of Form I-129, the TN prospective employee may apply for admission as a TN non-immigrant at a U.S. CBP designated port of entry or at a designated pre-clearance/pre-flight inspection station showing the following documents:

    • Proof of Canadian citizenship;
    • Form I-129 Approval Notice from USCIS; and
    • Proof of qualifications for the offered job.

    If you are a Mexican National:

    • Prepare DS-160 application and supporting documents
    • Schedule an appointment at a U.S. consulate in Mexico
    • Present TN application with supporting documents and original documents at the consulate appointment, including a job offer letter/employment contract from the prospective employer;
    • Consular officer will evaluate petition and issue the visa stamp in your passport if approved; and
    • You will receive the I-94 upon entry into the U.S.

    What are the Costs to Apply for a TN Visa?

    There are generally two different costs involved in preparing and applying for a TN visa:

    • The TN visa attorney fees  (see our legal fees for an TN visa), and
    • The TN visa fee with the DS-160 or USCIS filing fees for the  I-129, depending on the process, plus the filing fee for an I-907 if you will be requesting premium processing (always verify the USCIS filing fees as these change regularly)

    Fill out our online appointment request if you would like to talk with one of our immigration attorneys for TN visas in Massachusetts.

    Where can I get more Information on TN Visas?

    TN Visa Frequently Asked Questions

    USCIS Nafta Web Page

    U.S. Department of State Web Page

    Administrative Processing of U.S. Visas

    Client Reviews and Testimonials

    See all reviews or organize them by website!

    Will be recommending FLC to our friends!

    We had a great experience with FitzGerald Law Company while applying for a permanent resident card. Attorney Desmond was knowledgeable and helpful throughout the confusing immigration process! Our legal assistant, Angie, was wonderful - very friendly, great communication and efficient. Will be recommending FLC to our friends!

    Jayne Procopio

    I will recommend them to my friends and family

    Excellent lawyers they do a great job i will recommend them to my friends and family they are very helpful they are always there to answer all your questions and concerns.

    Gerson Lemus

    They were attentive and helpful

    Zrinka and the team were fantastic, thoroughly the whole of the (very long) process they were attentive and helpful, and made the whole thing as smooth and painless as possible.

    Laurence Wilson

    I will forever be grateful for your service

    I used Fitzgerald Law Company for my complicated case . I personally worked with Attorney Desmond and Mrs. Zrinka. I must say that Desmond is very professional and caring. He knows the system and pays attention to all the details. The entire team is very knowledgeable, respectful and reliable. Thank you Desmond and Mrs. Zrinka for tirelessly working with me to the end. Through your support and dedication, I was granted the privilege of a green card. I will forever be grateful for your service and I pray that the Almighty God will meet you at your point of need. I would highly recommend this firm to anybody that needs Immigration Services.

    Margaret Muguku

    Desmond and his staff and absolutely fantastic and easy to work with.

    I would highly recommend Fitzgerald law company for all immigration needs. Desmond and his staff and absolutely fantastic and easy to work with.

    Joe Ryan

    I wouldn't hesitate to hire them if I needed to.

    My husband and I are going through the US immigration process through consular processing in Canada. We hit an unexpected hitch in our process, and we were panicked and seeking out attorneys who could advise us what was happening with my husband's case. This firm took my emotional call and talked me through where we were in our process, what the likely outcome and timeline was based on their past cases supported, etc. and talked through all the details of our case. We talked for a good 15-20 minutes and they didn't charge me a dime. I felt so re-assured by the end of the conversation that our case will resolve soon. We haven't gotten the visa issued just yet, but we're remaining hopeful and will be contacting this company again as soon as anything goes astray. I really appreciated their care for a potential client, considering how emotional and scary the process can be. I wouldn't hesitate to hire them if I needed to. Thank you again for taking my call, and explaining so much of the process to us. It's clear you take care of your clients, and this review felt like the least I could do as a thank you. We'll be in touch if we end up needing your services!

    Allison

    They are excellent.

    Serious, dedicated work and provide all necessary explanations to the customer, they are excellent.

    Livia Liberato

    Amazing people, excellent service. Extremely professional.

    Amazing people, excellent service. Extremely professional. They helped me a lot and I will refer anyone who needs legal help to this law office!

    Ray T.

    I highly recommend this law firm

    My entire family and I have been working with FitzGerald Law Company for many years. Desmond and his team have never given up on us! I got my green card in 2018 and my parents got theirs this year! We are so happy :) we are just waiting on my sister now, but we know she is in great hands! Thank you so much! You have changed our lives for the better <3. I highly recommend this law firm if you are having any immigration problems. My parents Etleva and Kastriot send their deepest gratitude!

    Evjo Gjura

    This is the best immigration law office in Great Boston area.

    From experience, this is the best immigration law office in Great Boston area. Very satisfied with their work. No matter how difficult your case might be, if the team accepts working with you, you are in very good hands.

    Gleni Kajdo

    I really like that they speak so many languages and can help anyone!

    FitzGerald Law Company recently handled my immigration case for me and everything turned out great! The staff is excellent all the way from the secretary and assistant all the way up to the attorney. My attorney was Desmond Fitzgerald himself and he was excellent.

    Swarsatie R.

    They have been very supportive and professional

    My family and I have had an excellent experience with Desmond and his team at FitzGerald Law Company. They have been very supportive and professional, addressing our every concern. I feel fortunate to have found them and worked with them on my son's immigration case.

    Yoseph A.

    Highly recommend their services

    My husband and I reached out to FitzGerald Law Company, and we can only speak very highly of them. Very professional & reliable. I want to say big thanks to Desmond and Zrinka, who helped us throughout my immigration process. Highly recommend their services!

    Natasha A.

    They are on top of everything

    The Fitzgerald team is great and ready to help. They provide accurate information and never give a false picture of one’s situation. They are on top of everything and work with you. The team are very thorough at what they do. I would highly recommend their legal services.

    Patricia M.

    A very well organized firm, experienced and professional.

    My experience was exceptionally great. A very well organized firm, experienced and professional. Customer service was excellent and the lawyer that handled my case, Desmond Fitzgerald was the best. He was very thorough and very experienced. He knows what he's talking about. All in all, I had a positive experience and I highly recommend this company, especially Desmond Fitzgerald, he's awesome.

    Mike A.

    They helped me with a personal injury case

    Highly recommend Mr Desmond Fitzgerald and his team. They helped me with a personal injury case. He was realistic about outcomes and professional and came through for me.

    Garo M.

    Experienced, professional, and caring

    It was a great pleasure to have Mr. FitzGerald as my attorney. He was always there when I needed him. He is experienced, professional, and caring. I would recommend his services to anyone. I greatly appreciate what he did for me and would like to take the chance to express my gratitude to his hard work. Thank you very much Mr. FitzGerald. You'r the best...

    Ahmed B.

    Very professional and dedicated a lot of time to my case

    Very professional and dedicated a lot of time to my case...kept me in the know throughout the whole process. I definitely recommend FitzGerald Law Company to anyone looking for representation in a court case. Thank you Desmond and the entire team.

    James K.

    He explained things in a way that was easily understandable and things went smoothly

    Mr Desmond and his team did a remarkable job in immigration for my family and I. He explained things in a way that was easily understandable and things went smoothly. Highly recommended

    Gassim F.

    They made the process very smooth and pleasant

    Desmond and his team did a great job during my husband’s green card application. Very diligent, reliable and knowledgeable. They made the process very smooth and pleasant. Highly recommended!

    Karol S.

    The team is wonderful, efficient and very helpful/ professional

    The best lawfirm in Massachusetts. The team is wonderful, efficient and very helpful/ professional.

    Zulia O.

    They make the process as simple as possible

    Our experience with the FitzGerald Law Company is beyond positive. They make the process as simple as possible and are there to help and support the entire time. Everyone we've been in touch from their office was nice and helpful. We won the case and we would definitely use their services again. Thank you Juan & the team!

    Anonymous for Firm

    They put in a lot of time into my case all the while keeping me informed of any and all developments

    A very professional and committed team...They put in a lot of time into my case all the while keeping me informed of any and all developments. I definitely recommend FitzGerald Law Company to anyone seeking legal representation. Thank you Desmond and the entire team.

    Anonymous for Firm

    Highly recommend their services

    My husband and I reached out to FitzGerald Law Company, and we can only speak very highly of them. Very professional & reliable. I want to say big thanks to Desmond and Zrinka, who helped us throughout my immigration process. Highly recommend their services!

    Anonymous for Firm

    They are on top of everything

    The Fitzgerald team is great and ready to help. They provide accurate information and never give a false picture of one's situation. They are on top of everything and work with you. The team are very thorough at what they do. I would highly recommend their legal services.

    Anonymous for Firm

    I was very happy working with them and will be happy to work with them again

    The lawyer did an excellent job, it was really wonderful and inspiring to have him as a lawyer, he truly handled my case and everything went as expected. They always call or sent me an email to inform me the progress of my case, I am always feel welcomed when I meet with them. I was very happy working with them and will be happy to work with them again in the future.

    Anonymous for Firm

    I would definitely recommend Desmond and FitzGerald & Company to anyone looking for a professional, trustful immigration lawyer

    Desmond FitzGerald and his staff handles the daunting immigration legal paperwork with the utmost professionalism but always keeping the experience personal and realistic. I always felt that that I mattered. FitzGerald & Company has many payment options and they work with you to set up a payment plan which is affordable. {para}I would definitely recommend Desmond and FitzGerald & Company to anyone looking for a professional, trustful immigration lawyer.

    Anonymous for Firm

    Will be recommending FLC to our friends!

    We had a great experience with FitzGerald Law Company while applying for a permanent resident card. Attorney Desmond was knowledgeable and helpful throughout the confusing immigration process! Our legal assistant, Angie, was wonderful - very friendly, great communication and efficient. Will be recommending FLC to our friends!

    Jayne Procopio

    I will recommend them to my friends and family

    Excellent lawyers they do a great job i will recommend them to my friends and family they are very helpful they are always there to answer all your questions and concerns.

    Gerson Lemus

    They were attentive and helpful

    Zrinka and the team were fantastic, thoroughly the whole of the (very long) process they were attentive and helpful, and made the whole thing as smooth and painless as possible.

    Laurence Wilson

    I will forever be grateful for your service

    I used Fitzgerald Law Company for my complicated case . I personally worked with Attorney Desmond and Mrs. Zrinka. I must say that Desmond is very professional and caring. He knows the system and pays attention to all the details. The entire team is very knowledgeable, respectful and reliable. Thank you Desmond and Mrs. Zrinka for tirelessly working with me to the end. Through your support and dedication, I was granted the privilege of a green card. I will forever be grateful for your service and I pray that the Almighty God will meet you at your point of need. I would highly recommend this firm to anybody that needs Immigration Services.

    Margaret Muguku

    Desmond and his staff and absolutely fantastic and easy to work with.

    I would highly recommend Fitzgerald law company for all immigration needs. Desmond and his staff and absolutely fantastic and easy to work with.

    Joe Ryan

    I wouldn't hesitate to hire them if I needed to.

    My husband and I are going through the US immigration process through consular processing in Canada. We hit an unexpected hitch in our process, and we were panicked and seeking out attorneys who could advise us what was happening with my husband's case. This firm took my emotional call and talked me through where we were in our process, what the likely outcome and timeline was based on their past cases supported, etc. and talked through all the details of our case. We talked for a good 15-20 minutes and they didn't charge me a dime. I felt so re-assured by the end of the conversation that our case will resolve soon. We haven't gotten the visa issued just yet, but we're remaining hopeful and will be contacting this company again as soon as anything goes astray. I really appreciated their care for a potential client, considering how emotional and scary the process can be. I wouldn't hesitate to hire them if I needed to. Thank you again for taking my call, and explaining so much of the process to us. It's clear you take care of your clients, and this review felt like the least I could do as a thank you. We'll be in touch if we end up needing your services!

    Allison

    They are excellent.

    Serious, dedicated work and provide all necessary explanations to the customer, they are excellent.

    Livia Liberato

    Amazing people, excellent service. Extremely professional.

    Amazing people, excellent service. Extremely professional. They helped me a lot and I will refer anyone who needs legal help to this law office!

    Ray T.

    I highly recommend this law firm

    My entire family and I have been working with FitzGerald Law Company for many years. Desmond and his team have never given up on us! I got my green card in 2018 and my parents got theirs this year! We are so happy :) we are just waiting on my sister now, but we know she is in great hands! Thank you so much! You have changed our lives for the better <3. I highly recommend this law firm if you are having any immigration problems. My parents Etleva and Kastriot send their deepest gratitude!

    Evjo Gjura

    This is the best immigration law office in Great Boston area.

    From experience, this is the best immigration law office in Great Boston area. Very satisfied with their work. No matter how difficult your case might be, if the team accepts working with you, you are in very good hands.

    Gleni Kajdo

    I really like that they speak so many languages and can help anyone!

    FitzGerald Law Company recently handled my immigration case for me and everything turned out great! The staff is excellent all the way from the secretary and assistant all the way up to the attorney. My attorney was Desmond Fitzgerald himself and he was excellent.

    Swarsatie R.

    They have been very supportive and professional

    My family and I have had an excellent experience with Desmond and his team at FitzGerald Law Company. They have been very supportive and professional, addressing our every concern. I feel fortunate to have found them and worked with them on my son's immigration case.

    Yoseph A.

    Highly recommend their services

    My husband and I reached out to FitzGerald Law Company, and we can only speak very highly of them. Very professional & reliable. I want to say big thanks to Desmond and Zrinka, who helped us throughout my immigration process. Highly recommend their services!

    Natasha A.

    They are on top of everything

    The Fitzgerald team is great and ready to help. They provide accurate information and never give a false picture of one’s situation. They are on top of everything and work with you. The team are very thorough at what they do. I would highly recommend their legal services.

    Patricia M.

    A very well organized firm, experienced and professional.

    My experience was exceptionally great. A very well organized firm, experienced and professional. Customer service was excellent and the lawyer that handled my case, Desmond Fitzgerald was the best. He was very thorough and very experienced. He knows what he's talking about. All in all, I had a positive experience and I highly recommend this company, especially Desmond Fitzgerald, he's awesome.

    Mike A.

    They helped me with a personal injury case

    Highly recommend Mr Desmond Fitzgerald and his team. They helped me with a personal injury case. He was realistic about outcomes and professional and came through for me.

    Garo M.

    Experienced, professional, and caring

    It was a great pleasure to have Mr. FitzGerald as my attorney. He was always there when I needed him. He is experienced, professional, and caring. I would recommend his services to anyone. I greatly appreciate what he did for me and would like to take the chance to express my gratitude to his hard work. Thank you very much Mr. FitzGerald. You'r the best...

    Ahmed B.

    Very professional and dedicated a lot of time to my case

    Very professional and dedicated a lot of time to my case...kept me in the know throughout the whole process. I definitely recommend FitzGerald Law Company to anyone looking for representation in a court case. Thank you Desmond and the entire team.

    James K.

    He explained things in a way that was easily understandable and things went smoothly

    Mr Desmond and his team did a remarkable job in immigration for my family and I. He explained things in a way that was easily understandable and things went smoothly. Highly recommended

    Gassim F.

    They made the process very smooth and pleasant

    Desmond and his team did a great job during my husband’s green card application. Very diligent, reliable and knowledgeable. They made the process very smooth and pleasant. Highly recommended!

    Karol S.

    The team is wonderful, efficient and very helpful/ professional

    The best lawfirm in Massachusetts. The team is wonderful, efficient and very helpful/ professional.

    Zulia O.

    They make the process as simple as possible

    Our experience with the FitzGerald Law Company is beyond positive. They make the process as simple as possible and are there to help and support the entire time. Everyone we've been in touch from their office was nice and helpful. We won the case and we would definitely use their services again. Thank you Juan & the team!

    Anonymous for Firm

    They put in a lot of time into my case all the while keeping me informed of any and all developments

    A very professional and committed team...They put in a lot of time into my case all the while keeping me informed of any and all developments. I definitely recommend FitzGerald Law Company to anyone seeking legal representation. Thank you Desmond and the entire team.

    Anonymous for Firm

    Highly recommend their services

    My husband and I reached out to FitzGerald Law Company, and we can only speak very highly of them. Very professional & reliable. I want to say big thanks to Desmond and Zrinka, who helped us throughout my immigration process. Highly recommend their services!

    Anonymous for Firm

    They are on top of everything

    The Fitzgerald team is great and ready to help. They provide accurate information and never give a false picture of one's situation. They are on top of everything and work with you. The team are very thorough at what they do. I would highly recommend their legal services.

    Anonymous for Firm

    I was very happy working with them and will be happy to work with them again

    The lawyer did an excellent job, it was really wonderful and inspiring to have him as a lawyer, he truly handled my case and everything went as expected. They always call or sent me an email to inform me the progress of my case, I am always feel welcomed when I meet with them. I was very happy working with them and will be happy to work with them again in the future.

    Anonymous for Firm

    I would definitely recommend Desmond and FitzGerald & Company to anyone looking for a professional, trustful immigration lawyer

    Desmond FitzGerald and his staff handles the daunting immigration legal paperwork with the utmost professionalism but always keeping the experience personal and realistic. I always felt that that I mattered. FitzGerald & Company has many payment options and they work with you to set up a payment plan which is affordable. {para}I would definitely recommend Desmond and FitzGerald & Company to anyone looking for a professional, trustful immigration lawyer.

    Anonymous for Firm