The profession of a Dentist 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 U.S. employer as a dentist, you might be eligible to work and live in the United States under TN visa status. We discuss the dentist profession for TN visa status under the USMCA and how to qualify here.
What is a Dentist for TN Visa Purposes?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients’ teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health.
Dentists typically do the following:
- Remove decay from teeth and fill cavities
- Repair or remove damaged teeth
- Place sealants or whitening agents on teeth
- Administer anesthetics to keep patients from feeling pain during procedures
- Prescribe antibiotics or other medications
- Examine X-rays of teeth, gums, the jaw, and nearby areas to diagnose problems
- Make models and measurements for dental appliances, such as dentures
- Teach patients about diets, flossing, the use of fluoride, and other aspects of dental care
Dentists use a variety of equipment, including X-ray machines, drills, mouth mirrors, probes, forceps, brushes, and scalpels. They may also use lasers, digital scanners, and other modern technologies.
How Do I Qualify for a TN Visa as a Dentist?
You might qualify for TN visa status as a dentist if you meet the following minimum qualifications:
- Citizenship: You are a Canadian or Mexican citizen (permanent residents do not qualify).
- Job Offer: You have a job offer from a U.S. employer or are providing services to a U.S. client.
- Consistent Duties: You will be performing duties consistent with a dentist under the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
- Licensure or Education: You have a D.D.S., D.M.D., Doctor en Odontología, or Doctor en Cirugía Dental; or a state or provincial dental license.
- Non-Immigrant Intent: You can demonstrate that you intend to return to your foreign residence after completing your temporary employment.
Is Certification or Licensure Required to Obtain a TN Visa as a Dentist?
All U.S. states require dentists to be licensed to practice. You may qualify for TN visa status with a state or provincial license. However, licensure is generally a post-entry requirement and is not always required to obtain TN visa status as a dentist.
Conclusion
If you’re a dentist from Canada or Mexico, the TN visa offers a straightforward path to work in the United States. Meeting the essential requirements—such as having the appropriate degree or license, a job offer from a U.S. employer, and an intent to return home after your employment may qualify you for this visa. This opportunity allows you to bring your dental expertise to a new setting, advance your career, and contribute to oral health care in the United States.
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If you have any questions regarding TN visa requirements for dentists, contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for guidance. Our immigration lawyers have decades of experience helping professionals work and live in the United States. Read some of our 5-star client reviews and contact us today to assess your legal situation.
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)
