Can You Go to School in the U.S. on a TN Visa?
If you’re a Canadian or Mexican citizen working in the U.S. on a TN (Trade NAFTA) Visa, you may be interested in furthering your education. However, the TN Visa is specifically designed for temporary professional work, so adding education to your plans can have restrictions. Here’s what you need to know about studying in the U.S. while on a TN Visa.
Table of Contents
- TN Visa Overview
- Can TN Visa Holders Study?
- Part-Time vs. Full-Time Studies
- Alternative Visa Options for Study
1. TN Visa Overview
The TN Visa allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in specific professional roles in the United States. It is available for professionals in fields like engineering, healthcare, accounting, and teaching, among others. While it permits holders to live and work in the U.S. for an employer, it is considered a non-immigrant, temporary visa, which means its primary purpose is to enable work—not education.
2. Can TN Visa Holders Study?
TN Visa holders can enroll in classes, but there are limitations. Generally, part-time study is allowed as long as it does not interfere with your primary work duties and does not replace your TN employment. Full-time study, however, is not recommended, as it could contradict the terms of your TN Visa, which requires you to work for a specific employer in a qualifying role.
3. Part-Time vs. Full-Time Studies
- Part-Time Study: TN Visa holders are typically allowed to take classes on a part-time basis, like evening courses, online courses, or certifications that enhance their professional skills. This could include taking one or two classes a semester or enrolling in a certificate program relevant to their job.
- Full-Time Study: Full-time enrollment is generally not permitted under a TN Visa. Pursuing a full-time degree or academic program while on a TN Visa could lead to issues, as the individual’s primary purpose in the U.S. may be education rather than employment. If you’re considering a full-time degree, switching to an F-1 (Student) Visa is advisable to avoid complications.
4. Alternative Visa Options for Study
If you want to pursue full-time studies in the U.S., here are some alternatives:
- F-1 Student Visa: This is a standard visa for international students enrolling in full-time study programs at U.S. schools. Unlike the TN Visa, the F-1 is designed to support students’ academic pursuits.
- J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa: In some cases, the J-1 Visa might be an option for those participating in specific training, internships, or academic programs. This visa often has more flexibility than the TN for study purposes.
Switching from a TN Visa to an F-1 or J-1 visa involves applying for a change of status through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or leaving the country to apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Conclusion
Studying while on a TN Visa is possible, but there are restrictions. Part-time study is usually allowed, while full-time education may require a switch to a different visa. If you’re considering advancing your education in the U.S., understand how your plans align with your TN Visa’s requirements to avoid complications.
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If you have questions regarding a 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. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.