The Case: Second TN Visa for Canadian Professional
For independent Canadian professionals, securing a TN visa under the Management Consultant category can be a challenging process, especially when not affiliated with a formal consulting firm. It was our pleasure to assist a returning client in obtaining his second TN visa, this time as an independent contractor hired by a U.S. company in need of specialized consulting services.
TN Visa for Independent Contractors
Unlike traditional employment-based visas, the TN Management Consultant category under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) allows Canadian citizens to enter the U.S. to provide consulting services on a temporary basis. However, the requirements are specific, and border officers scrutinize the legitimacy of the consulting arrangement, the qualifications of the applicant, and the documentation provided.
In this case, our client was not working for a consulting firm. Instead, he had been contracted directly by a U.S. company to provide strategic guidance in his area of expertise. This made it crucial that we present a clear, well-structured case showing:
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The temporary nature of the engagement
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His qualifications and consulting background
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A detailed offer letter and scope of work
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Evidence that the arrangement met all TN requirements
Approved at the Border, No Questions Asked
Thanks to our team’s precise and thorough documentation, the client’s experience at the border was smooth and efficient. The CBP officer reviewed the packet, noted that everything was in good order, and approved a three-year TN visa without asking further questions.
Client Review:
“This is my second TN using Mr. Richards’ law firm! All the professional paperwork was prepared by this law firm in good order. Everything went smoothly and at the border the officer said my paperwork was very good and complete, no further questions asked! I was let go with another 3 year of TN. I highly recommend Canadian people seeking TN to use this law firm.”
Conclusion
Independent consultants often face additional scrutiny when applying for a TN visa, especially without an affiliation to a major firm. This success story highlights the importance of working with a legal team that understands how to tailor each application to the unique structure of the engagement.
Whether it’s your first TN application or your second, working as an independent contractor adds complexity that shouldn’t be underestimated. With the right legal support, certain independent professionals can qualify under the Management Consultant category, and do so confidently.
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The US immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik Immigration Law have decades of experience helping people with the TN visa process. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
