The profession of a Physical Therapist (Physiotherapist) is listed under the USMCA(NAFTA) professions list as a profession that qualifies for TN visa status. If you are a Canadian or Mexican Citizen with an offer of employment from a US employer as a Physical Therapist (Physiotherapist), you might qualify to work and live in the US under TN Visa status. We discuss the profession of a Physical Therapist (Physiotherapist) for TN Visa status under the USMCA and how to qualify here.
What is a Physical Therapist (Physiotherapist) for TN Visa purposes?
Under the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) a physical therapist is outlined as follows:
Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain. They are often an important part of preventive care, rehabilitation, and treatment for patients with chronic conditions, illnesses, or injuries. Physical therapists typically do the following:
- Review patients’ medical history and referrals or notes from doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare workers
- Diagnose patients’ functions and movements by observing them stand or walk and by listening to their concerns
- Develop individualized plans of care for patients, outlining the patients’ goals and the expected outcomes of the plans
- Use exercises, stretching maneuvers, hands-on therapy, and equipment to ease patients’ pain, help them increase their mobility, prevent further pain or injury, and facilitate health and wellness
- Evaluate and record a patients’ progress, modifying the plan of care and trying new treatments as needed
- Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process and how to cope with challenges throughout the process
Physical therapists, sometimes called PTs, care for people of all ages who have functional problems resulting from back and neck injuries; sprains, strains, and fractures; arthritis; amputations; neurological disorders, such as stroke or cerebral palsy; injuries related to work and sports; and other conditions.
How do I qualify for TN Visa status as a Physical Therapist?
You might qualify for TN Visa status as a Physical Therapist if you meet the following minimum qualifications:
- You are a Canadian or Mexican Citizen (Permanent Residents do NOT qualify);
- You have a job offer from a US employer or are servicing a contract with a US client;
- You will be performing duties consistent with a Physical Therapist;
- You have a Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; OR State/Provincial License; and
- You can demonstrate that you have non-immigrant intent, in other words, the intent to return to your foreign residence at the end of your temporary employment.
Is certification or licensure required to obtain TN Visa status as a Physical Therapist?
All states require physical therapists to be licensed, which includes passing the National Physical Therapy Examination administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Although you can qualify for TN visa status as a physician with a state/provincial license, licensure is a post-entry requirement for TN visa status and is NOT a requirement to obtain TN visa status as a Physician.
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We Can Help!
The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik Immigration Law have more than 30+ years of TN Visa experience helping people to live and work in the United States. Contact us today for an assessment of your qualifications for TN Visa status as a Physical therapist.
