TN Visa Status as a Sylviculturist

The profession of a Sylviculturist, or forestry specialist, 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 Sylviculturist, you might qualify to work and live in the US under TN Visa status. We discuss the profession of a Sylviculturist for TN Visa status under the USMCA and how to qualify here.

What is a Sylviculturist for TN Visa purposes?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), Sylviculturists fall under the professions of conservation scientists and foresters.  These professions as are defined follows for immigration purposes:

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

How do I qualify for TN Visa status as a Sylviculturist?

You might qualify for TN Visa status as a sylviculturist if you meet the following minimum qualifications:

  1. You are a Canadian or Mexican Citizen (Permanent Residents do NOT qualify);
  2. You have a job offer from a US employer or are servicing a contract with a US client;
  3. You will be performing duties consistent with a silviculturist under the OOH;
  4. You have a Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree in forestry, or a related field; and
  5. 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 sylviculturist?

Several states have some type of credentialing process for foresters. In some of these states, foresters must be licensed; check with your state for more information. Conservation workers do not need a license. However, licensure is a post-entry requirement for TN visa status and is not a requirement to obtain TN visa status as a sylviculturist. 

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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 sylviculturist.

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