The TN visa, created under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), is a popular pathway for Canadian and Mexican professionals seeking employment in the U.S. While it’s commonly associated with full-time work, many professionals ask: Can you hold a TN visa for part-time employment? The answer is yes – provided the job meets specific requirements.
Understanding TN Visa Eligibility
To qualify for a TN visa, applicants must:
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Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico
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Work in one of the professions listed in the USMCA agreement
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Have a valid job offer from a U.S. employer
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Possess the necessary academic or professional credentials
What’s less known is that this job offer does not need to be full-time. Part-time offers are valid, as long as the position is legitimate, clearly defined, and meets the profession’s qualifications listed under USMCA.
Part-Time Work: What the Rules Say
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) do not prohibit part-time employment under TN status. However, applicants must clearly indicate the part-time nature of the job during the application process, including how many hours per week they will work and what the compensation will be.
It’s also important that the employer is specific about the role and responsibilities. The government wants to ensure that the job is legitimate and not a disguised form of self-employment or freelance work, which TN status does not permit.
Can You Work for More Than One Employer?
Yes, but with conditions. If you plan to work multiple part-time jobs for different U.S. employers, each job must be individually authorized under TN visa rules. This means obtaining separate approval through the TN process – either at a port of entry (for Canadians) or through a Form I-129 petition (for those already in the U.S.).
Self-Employment Is Not Permitted
Even if you’re working part-time, the TN visa does not allow self-employment. You must work for a U.S. company that is directing your activities and providing compensation. Freelancing, independent contracting, or running your own business under TN status is strictly prohibited.
Key Considerations
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Be specific in your application: Clearly define part-time hours and job duties.
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Maintain documentation: Keep records of your job offer, pay structure, and work schedule.
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Avoid gig work: The TN visa is employer-sponsored – no exceptions.
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Report any changes: If your role changes or expands to a second employer, you’ll need updated TN approval.
Conclusion
Holding a TN visa while working part-time in the U.S. is entirely possible – and legal – so long as the employment meets the criteria outlined by U.S. immigration authorities. The job must be specific, employer-sponsored, and within an approved profession. Self-employment and vague work arrangements are non-compliant and could jeopardize your status.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
Source:
USCIS – TN USMCA Professionals
We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding TN Visa, 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. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
REBECCA KROLL is an Associate Attorney at Richards and Jurusik who practices exclusively in U.S. immigration law, focusing on both business and family-based immigration. She assists clients with employment-based visas, marriage and family cases, and the U.S. citizenship process. (Full Bio)
