Regarding TN Visa representation with CBP, the most common question we receive is, “What should I expect from TN Visa interview?” For years, USCBP allowed TN Visa lawyers to represent their clients at specific US Ports of Entry (POE). Here are the most valuable insights our TN Visa lawyers gained from first-hand experience representing TN Visa applicants in person with CBP.
Should I be worried about my TN Visa interview?
The TN Visa interview process is pretty straightforward. The Officer is determining whether or not you qualify for the TN Visa you’re applying for. As long as you have the proper supporting documents and everything is laid out clearly in your application, the TN Visa interview process should go smoothly.
However, if you have had several TN Visas in the past, have spent a significant amount of time in the US as a visitor before filing for a TN Visa, have committed any immigration violations, or have a pending green card application, you may be denied and have to re-apply with additional evidence. You will want to hire a TN Visa lawyer to assist you with your application in those cases.
What should I expect from the CBP Officer who conducts my TN Visa interview?
Well, that depends on the CBP Officer. Unfortunately, each officer has a very different interview style. Some Officers take your TN Visa application and review it with minimal questions, relying on the paperwork. Other officers will determine this based on questioning and a limited review of the TN Visa application. In the end, all officers look for the same things, such as adjudicating your TN Visa application to determine whether or not you qualify for the TN Visa profession that you’re applying under.
What will the CBP Officer want to verify during my TN Visa interview?
During your in-person TN Visa interview, the CBP Officer will generally want to verify that:
- You are either a Canadian or Mexican citizen. This is generally with your passport.
- You have a valid job offer or contract with a US employer. The job offer letter must be an original copy printed on official company letterhead and signed in ink. They will not accept digital or e-signatures.
- The job offer is for a position under the USMCA (NAFTA) TN Visa professions list. The offer letter must contain the TN profession title and a detailed job description showing that your duties are consistent with the responsibilities of that TN Visa profession.
- You meet the minimum requirements and qualifications for your TN Visa profession. Once they confirm your TN profession, they review it against your ORIGINAL supporting documents, including your degrees, certificates, transcripts, licenses, original signed support letter from your employer, and any other required evidence.
- Your TN Visa job offer is for a temporary position. Your offer letter must also include start and end dates for your position.
- You do not intend to reside permanently in the US. In other words, they want proof that you are a nonimmigrant. This could include evidence that the applicant will depart the US after completing a specific assignment or proof that the applicant still maintains ties to Canada or Mexico, such as a residence, property ownership, or the presence of family. (While maintaining a foreign residence is not required for a TN, it may help satisfy the temporary entry requirement.)
The Officer will determine whether your TN Visa application is approved or denied based on those verifications.
What kind of questions will I be asked during my TN Visa interview?
Simply put, the Officer will ask whatever questions they think are relevant to determine your qualifications for a TN Visa under the USMCA (NAFTA). No interview is the same as the last. Most of the questions will surround whether you qualify for the TN Visa under the job offer you present. Some of the most common questions include:
- Have you ever been to the United States before?
- Have you ever worked in the United States before?
- Do you have family members in the United States?
- What is your long-term goal in the United States?
- Where do you plan on living in the United States?
- How did you find out about the position offered?
- What will you be doing in the United States as an accountant, computer systems analyst, computer engineer, or whatever position you have applied under?
How should I answer the TN Visa interview questions?
Here are three quick tips on how best to answer your TN Visa interview questions:
- Be brief. Answer with “yes” and “no” answers whenever appropriate. If the Officer wants more information or specifics, they will ask. At that point, you should expound on your answer.
- Be direct. Do not dance around the questions that you are asked. There are no trick questions. Officers expect direct answers to their questions. Don’t dodge the question; give a direct answer.
- Be truthful. Always tell the truth. Do not attempt to lie to or deceive an Officer. Do not lie about what you’re doing in the United States. Lying will only cause more complications for you, and it could potentially lead to immigration proceedings or being permanently barred from entry into the United States.
What happens when my TN Visa is approved?
Upon approval of your TN Visa, the Officer will take your photograph and fingerprints and issue an I-94 card, proof of your legal status working in the United States. The Officer will then either attach the I-94 to your passport or, in some cases, issue an I-94 electronically, which you can retrieve at any time through the CBP website using your passport.
Conclusion
Understanding the TN Visa interview process with CBP is crucial for a successful application. From knowing what to expect during the interview to preparing essential documents and understanding potential questions, being well-prepared can make a significant difference. Remember to respond truthfully, be concise, and provide direct answers. If your application is approved, you will receive an I-94 card, either physically or electronically, as proof of your legal status to work in the United States. By following these guidelines and potentially seeking assistance from a TN Visa lawyer, you can navigate the interview process with confidence and increase your chances of obtaining your TN Visa.
Citations
We can Help!
You may have questions regarding the TN Visa application process. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
