Sometimes, those inside the United States working under TN visa status look for ways to supplement their income. Foreign nationals must be careful when looking for a side hustle, as their visa status must cover it. In most cases, a new visa must be obtained to cover any work done on the side. We discuss supplemental income or side hustle while on TN visa status here.
Can I work on my TN visa at Uber, DoorDash, GrubHub, Lyft, Instacart, or another part-time job?
Often, a Canadian or Mexican national working in the United States under a TN visa status would like to supplement their income with a side hustle. Many options can seem appealing, such as Uber, DoorDash, GrubHub, Lyft, Instacart, and other flexible positions that can look appealing for supplemental income. A few issues arise when on a TN Visa and looking to work in such positions. The three main topics are:
- TN Visa Status Side Hustle NOT Permitted – TN visa status is employer and position-specific. You are only authorized to work for the employer, for the specific position, for the specific time period listed on your TN visa. You cannot work for any other employer without first obtaining a new TN visa tied to the specific employer for the specific position. Side work for any employer not listed on your TN visa is unauthorized and violates your visa status.
- NOT a TN Visa Profession—Any position performed in the United States under TN visa status must fall under one of the listed TN visa occupations. Working as a driver, delivery driver, or any related position is not a TN visa occupation and does not qualify for TN visa status or any other visa status to work in the United States as they are not considered professional-level occupations. TN visa status is not available for these types of positions.
- Self-Employment NOT Allowed – Most of the positions that fit in this scenario are independent contract positions, not employees. In other words, self-employment. You set your own schedule. You work if you have time when you want to. You drive your own vehicle and are responsible for your own insurance, etc. TN visa status does not authorize self-employment.
Before you accept any employment as a foreign national, you must first have proper work authorization. Working without proper work authorization is NOT permissible and is an immigration violation.
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You may have questions regarding TN visa requirements. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
