My TN Visa Was Approved, What Do I Need to Know?

Congratulations on the approval for your TN visa!

Now that your TN visa has been approved, it is important to understand what to do upon your arrival, whether you are starting a new job or continuing with past employment. This blog explains what TN visa holders need to know to maintain their TN status and ensure a smooth start to their U.S. employment.

Review of TN Approvals: Increased Scrutiny at Ports

Recent experience shows that ports of entry and U.S. domestic adjudicators (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services / U.S. Customs and Border Protection) are giving additional scrutiny to TN petitions, even those previously approved. Many travellers are finding themselves unprepared at border re-entry because they assumed the prior approval covered all future travel.

CBP officers have advised that TN professionals carry a copy of their application supporting documents—such as degrees/diplomas, employer support letters, and organizational charts or job descriptions. Photocopies suffice unless an officer requests originals.

This additional layer of scrutiny means that, even once you’ve secured TN status, your documentation habits matter at every border crossing and re-entry.

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1) Handling Your Electronic CBP Form I-94

Upon entering the U.S., your I-94 form, available via the CBP website, becomes the most crucial document validating your TN status.

Procedure for Access: Navigate to the CBP’s official website and use your passport information to retrieve your I-94 record. Please print this document; it serves as proof of your legal entry and visa status.

Accuracy Verification: Immediately check for any discrepancies in your personal information, visa classification (should reflect TN), and validity dates. Any errors should be corrected as soon as possible to avoid employment eligibility or re-entry issues.

In some cases, CBP will limit the validity of your TN visa to the expiration of your passport. The following explains what you need to know if your passport expires before your TN visa employment period: TN Visa Expiring Due to Passport? What to Do Next

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2) Understanding Your TN Visa Validity Period

Your TN status is closely tied to the duration of your employment offer—up to three years—with the option to renew if you remain eligible.

Monitoring Your Stay: Track the expiration date on your I-94. Plan renewals or departures well in advance to avoid overstaying, which can result in penalties or impact future entries.

Renewal Process: Discuss renewal timing with your employer months ahead. Consider retaining legal counsel to ensure your renewal application aligns with current USCIS and CBP policy updates.

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3) Employer / Client-Specific TN Visa Status

The TN visa binds you to a specific employer and position. Any significant change (e.g., a new employer or new duties) may require reapplication.

Changing Employers: If you change employers, you may either:

• Apply at a U.S. port of entry (for Canadians) with a new job offer letter; or
• Have the new employer file a Form I-129 for a change of employer (for both Canadians and Mexicans) without leaving the U.S.

Adapting to Job Changes: If your job duties evolve beyond the scope of the original application, consult with immigration services to determine if a new TN application is required.

The following provides a more detailed explanation of when a new TN visa might be necessary: When Is a New TN Visa or Amended Status Required?

The following explains the process of changing employers while on a TN Visa: How Do I Change Employers on a TN Visa?

Note: Self-employment and ownership of the U.S. hiring entity are not permitted under TN status.

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4) Securing a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN)

An SSN is indispensable for employment, banking, tax reporting, and other U.S. financial relationships.

Application Insights: Bring your passport, TN visa/status, and I-94 form to the nearest Social Security Office. The process is straightforward, but apply early so your employer can complete payroll and tax withholding correctly.

The following provides a detailed explanation of how to apply for and obtain a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN), while on a TN visa: How Do I Get a Social Security Number (SSN) on a TN visa?

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5) Completing the USCIS Form I-9

The Form I-9 verifies your eligibility to work in the United States.

Completion Guidelines: Complete this form with your employer by presenting your passport and I-94 form (plus visa if required). This is a federal requirement for all employees; ensure your documents are valid at the time of hire and remain valid throughout employment.

The following provides a detailed explanation of the Form I-9 process and requirements: Form I-9 Guide for TN Visa Holders and Employers

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6) TD Visa for Your Dependents

Your spouse and children (under 21) may accompany you under TD status, but they are not permitted to work.

Application Process for Dependents:

• Canadian dependents can apply directly at a port of entry.
• Mexican and non-Canadian dependents must apply at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

The following provides details on how to obtain a TD for a spouse or qualifying dependent: How to Obtain TD Status

School Enrollment and ITIN: Dependents may attend school under TD status. Since TD dependents cannot obtain an SSN, they should apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) if needed for tax filing or dependent claims.

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7) Travel Considerations Under TN Visa Status

While travel flexibility is a benefit of the TN visa, it’s essential to stay prepared when re-entering the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has confirmed increased scrutiny at some ports for TN visa holders—even for petitions previously approved.

To avoid delays and ensure smooth re-entry, carry the following:

• A copy of your I-94 and, if applicable, your USCIS approval notice
• Photocopies of key supporting documents from your TN application, including your degree, employer support letter, and job description or organizational chart
• Your valid passport and visa (for Mexicans) or proof of Canadian citizenship (for Canadians)

Photocopies are acceptable and generally sufficient unless a CBP officer specifically requests originals.

Remember: Canadian pre-clearance airports are considered equivalent to U.S. ports of entry; treat them as such.

Given recent policy updates tightening eligibility criteria for certain professions, it is more important than ever to have consistent documentation that clearly matches your job duties, credentials, and employer.

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8) Transitioning to U.S. Permanent Residence

While the TN visa does not directly lead to permanent residency, pathways are available for those looking to make the United States their permanent home.

Exploring Legal Pathways: Consult with an immigration attorney to explore options such as employment-based sponsorship (EB-2 or EB-3) or adjustment of status under special circumstances. Keep in mind that TN status requires maintaining a temporary employment intent, and pursuing permanent residence must be carefully timed to avoid conflicts of intent.

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Conclusion

The TN visa offers a valuable opportunity for Canadian and Mexican citizens to engage in professional work in the U.S. Understanding and navigating the visa process and its requirements is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your TN status, maintaining legal compliance, and ensuring a productive and enjoyable stay in the United States.

From careful documentation of your entry and I-94 to employer alignment and travel preparation, staying proactive makes all the difference. If you are preparing for TN entry, renewal, change of employer, or long-term planning, review your records, align your paperwork with the latest guidance, and stay ready for possible questions at the border.

Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer