Interior Designers are listed under the USMCA (NAFTA) professions list as a profession that qualifies for a TN visa. If you are a Canadian or Mexican citizen with an offer of employment as an engineer from a US employer, you may qualify to work and live in the US under TN Visa status.
What is an Interior Designer for TN Visa purposes?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), the profession of Interior Designers is defined as follows:
Interior designers make indoor spaces functional, safe, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting essential and decorative items, such as colors, lighting, and materials. They must be able to draw, read, and edit blueprints. They also must be aware of building codes, inspection regulations, and other considerations, such as accessibility standards. Interior designers typically do the following:
- Search for and bid on new projects;
- Determine the client’s goals and requirements for the project;
- Consider how the space will be used and how people will move through the space;
- Sketch preliminary design plans, including electrical and partition layouts;
- Specify materials and furnishings, such as lighting, furniture, wall finishes, flooring, and plumbing fixtures;
- Create a timeline for the interior design project and estimate project costs;
- Place orders for materials and oversee the installation of the design elements;
- Oversee construction and coordinate with general building contractors to implement the plans and specifications for the project; and
- Visit the site after the project is complete, to ensure that the client is satisfied.
Interior designers work closely with architects, civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and construction laborers, and helpers to determine how interior spaces will function, look, and be furnished. Interior designers read blueprints and must be aware of building codes and inspection regulations.
Qualifications: TN Visa as an Interior Designer:
Like all TN Visas, an individual must meet specific requirements for a TN Visa as an interior designer. These include:
- Canadian or Mexican Citizenship (Permanent Residents do NOT qualify);
- A job offer from a US employer or an employer with a contract servicing a U.S. client;
- The job offer includes duties consistent with an engineer under the OOH;
- A Baccalaureate or Licenciatura in fine arts or a closely related field, with fine arts subjects being the most common. Studies should include courses in interior design, drawing, and computer-aided design (CAD); OR Post-Secondary-Diploma or Post-Secondary Certificate, and three years of experience; and
- Demonstration that there is non-immigrant intent, meaning intent to return to a foreign residence at the end of the temporary employment.
Conclusion
At Richards and Jurusuk, our legal practice is dedicated to helping our clients understand U.S. Immigration Laws, with many of our attorneys focusing on the USCMA and TN Visas. We have helped thousands of qualified professionals successfully obtain TN Visa status to work and live in the United States. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced TN visa lawyers to help you with the TN visa application process.
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You may have questions regarding the requirements for a TN Visa as an Interior Designer. 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.
