The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Buffalo, NY border crossings has transitioned to a fully online system for scheduling TN and L visa appointments and waivers. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and avoid delays.
CBP Buffalo Moves TN and L Visa Scheduling Online
As of June 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Port of Buffalo now requires all U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)-related appointments, including TN and L visa applications, as well as I-192 and I-212 waivers, to be scheduled entirely online. This change helps streamline the process and minimize border wait times.
Key Updates:
- Online-Only Scheduling: All appointments, changes, and rescheduling must be done online via the CBP Buffalo USMCA/Waiver Appointment Portal.
- Document Submission via e-SAFE: Applicants must submit documents through the e-SAFE system before booking an appointment.
- Email Submissions: After scheduling, supporting documents can also be sent to BuffaloUSMCA@cbp.dhs.gov.
Waiver Appointment Hours (I-192 & I-212):
- Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Available at Peace Bridge, Lewiston/Queenston Bridge, and Rainbow Bridge
USMCA TN and L Visa Appointment Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Available at Peace Bridge, Lewiston/Queenston Bridge, and Rainbow Bridge
What This Means for Applicants:
Canadian and Mexican citizens seeking TN or L-1 status at the Buffalo land ports must:
- Submit all necessary documents in advance through e-SAFE.
- Schedule appointments online – walk-ins are no longer accepted.
- Prepare ahead of time due to limited appointment slots and processing times.
This update reflects CBP’s continued effort to modernize border processing and improve efficiency. Staying informed and following the new procedures will help you avoid delays at the border.
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JEREMY L. RICHARDS is the founding partner of Richards and Jurusik and has dedicated his career to U.S. immigration law, with a specialized focus on assisting Canadian and Mexican citizens under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to work and live in the United States. (Full Bio)
