TN visas allow qualified professionals from Canada and Mexico to work in the United States under NAFTA/USMCA provisions. If you’ve already been approved for a TN visa, you may wonder about the process for re-entering the U.S. Here’s a clear breakdown of re-admission regulations based on 8 CFR 214.6.
What Is Re-Admission on a TN Visa?
Re-admission refers to entering the United States again after temporarily leaving during the validity of your TN visa. The rules differ depending on whether you have a valid Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).
Re-Admission With a Valid I-94
If you hold a valid, unexpired Form I-94 from your original TN visa admission:
- You may re-enter the U.S. without presenting additional supporting documents, such as employer letters.
- No additional fee is required.
- The conditions of your employment (employer, role, etc.) must remain unchanged.
This process simplifies re-entry as long as your I-94 has not expired and your professional activities remain consistent with the initial TN visa approval.
Re-Admission Without a Valid I-94
You may be re-admitted if you no longer possess a valid Form I-94, but your TN visa is still valid. Here’s how:
For Canadian Citizens:
You can provide alternate evidence of your TN status, such as:
- A fee receipt for your TN visa admission.
- A previously issued admission stamp in your passport.
- A confirming letter from your U.S. employer(s).
For Mexican Citizens:
You’ll need:
- A valid, unexpired TN visa in your passport.
- Evidence of your prior admission to the U.S. in TN status.
A new Form I-94 with “multiple entry” authorization may be issued based on the remaining validity of your original TN approval.
Key Conditions for Re-Admission
Regardless of whether you have a valid I-94, the following conditions must be met:
- Your original TN visa approval has not expired.
- There are no changes to your intended employment or employer.
- You meet all general requirements for TN visa holders.
Practical Tips for TN Visa Re-Admission
- Keep Your I-94 Safe: If you were issued an I-94 during your initial admission, keep it accessible. This will simplify re-admission.
- Employer Confirmation: If your I-94 is lost or expired, ask your employer for a letter confirming your TN status.
- Carry Documentation: While not always required, it’s a good idea to carry your TN visa approval notice, employment letter, and other supporting documents when traveling.
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