Do you have a job offer to work in the U.S. as a Technical Publications Writer? The profession is recognized under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) as a qualifying role for a TN visa. You might be eligible if you’re a Canadian or Mexican citizen with a U.S. job offer. Here, we cover the profession’s requirements under the USMCA for a TN visa.
The Role of a Technical Publications Writer for TN Visa Purposes
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), Technical Publications Writers are categorized under the broader profession of Technical Writers. For immigration purposes, they are defined as:
Technical Writers or communicators create instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, etc., to simplify complex technical information. They develop, gather, and disseminate technical information via an organization’s communication channels. Their responsibilities include assessing users’ needs, collaborating with technical staff, writing or revising product content, and standardizing content across various platforms and media.
How to Qualify for a TN Visa as a Technical Publications Writer
To be eligible for a TN visa as a Technical Publications Writer, the following minimum qualifications must be met:
- Citizenship of Canada or Mexico (Permanent Residents are NOT eligible).
- A job offer from a U.S. employer or a contract with a U.S. client.
- Duties aligning with a Technical Writer’s role as defined in the OOH.
- A Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field, a Post-secondary diploma or Post-secondary certificate, and three years of experience.
- Proof of non-immigrant intent or intent to return to your foreign residence post-employment.
Is Certification Necessary for TN Visa Status as a Technical Publications Writer?
Though the Society for Technical Communication and the American Medical Writers Association offer certification for technical writers, obtaining TN visa status as a technical publications writer is not mandatory. These certifications enhance the credibility of medical and scientific communication professionals, but licensure is a post-entry requirement and NOT essential for obtaining TN visa status.
Consultation
At Richards and Jurusik, our legal practice is devoted to U.S. Immigration Laws, 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.
