If you work in forestry and conservation, you might qualify to work in the United States under TN Visa status as a Forester. The profession of a forester is one of the professions listed under the USMCA (NAFTA) that qualifies for TN Visa status to work in the United States. We discuss the profession of a forester for TN Visa status under the USMCA and how to qualify here.
What is a forester for TN Visa purposes?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), a forester falls under the professions of Conservation Scientists and Foresters. These professions as are defined follows under the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH):
Conservation scientists and foresters manage the overall land quality of forests, parks, rangelands, and other natural resources. Conservation scientists typically do the following:
- Oversee forestry and conservation activities to ensure compliance with government regulations and habitat protection
- Negotiate terms and conditions for forest harvesting and for land-use contracts
- Establish plans for managing forest lands and resources
- Monitor forest-cleared lands to ensure that they are suitable for future use
- Work with private landowners, governments, farmers, and others to improve land for forestry purposes, while at the same time protecting the environment
Foresters typically do the following:
- Supervise activities of forest and conservation workers and technicians
- Choose and prepare sites for new trees, using controlled burning, bulldozers, or herbicides to clear land
- Monitor the regeneration of forests
- Direct and participate in forest fire suppression
- Determine ways to remove timber with minimum environmental damage
Conservation scientists manage, improve, and protect the country’s natural resources. They work with private landowners and federal, state, and local governments to find ways to use and improve the land while safeguarding the environment. Conservation scientists advise farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers on how they can improve their land for agricultural purposes and to control erosion.
Foresters have a wide range of duties, and their responsibilities vary with their employer. Some primary duties of foresters are drawing up plans to regenerate forested lands, monitoring the progress of those lands, and supervising tree harvests. Another duty of a forester is devising plans to keep forests free from disease, harmful insects, and damaging wildfires. Many foresters supervise forest and conservation workers and technicians, directing their work and evaluating their progress.
How do I qualify for TN Visa status as a forester?
You might qualify for TN Visa status as a forester 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 forester under the OOH;
- You have a Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree in forestry or a related subject, such as agriculture, rangeland management, or natural resources; 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.
With proper preparation and guidance, the TN Visa process can be straightforward. Taken lightly, the TN Visa process can be burdensome and can have long-term immigration consequences.
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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 forester.