TN Visa Guide for Canadian Nurses

For Canadian Registered Nurses, the TN visa is the fastest and most efficient pathway to a rewarding career in the United States. Created under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), this special visa category allows qualified Canadian professionals to work in the U.S. without the caps or lotteries associated with other visa types.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step breakdown of the TN visa process, tailored specifically for Canadian nurses.

What is a TN Visa and Why is it Ideal for Nurses?

The TN visa is a non-immigrant status that allows Canadian citizens in specific professional occupations to work in the United States. “Registered Nurse” is an explicitly approved profession, making it a perfect fit.

Key advantages for Canadian nurses include:

• Speed and Convenience: You can apply directly at a U.S. Port of Entry (a land border or airport pre-clearance facility) and receive a decision on the spot.
• No Annual Quota: Unlike the H-1B visa, there is no annual limit or lottery system. If you qualify, you can get the visa.
• Long-Term Flexibility: TN status is granted for up to three years at a time and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as you continue to qualify.
• Family Can Join You: Your spouse and dependent children can accompany you to the U.S. under TD status.

Eligibility Checklist for a TN Visa

To successfully obtain a TN visa, you must meet these core requirements:

1. Be a Canadian Citizen: You must present a valid Canadian passport.
2. Have a U.S. Job Offer: You need a pre-arranged, full-time or part-time job offer from a U.S. employer for a Registered Nurse position.
3. Hold a U.S. State License: You must have a valid RN license for the specific U.S. state where you will be working.
4. Possess a VisaScreen® Certificate: This credential from CGFNS is required for all foreign-educated healthcare professionals. USCIS does accept alternatives in some cases, which we will manage for you.
5. Meet Educational Qualifications: You must hold a diploma or degree from a post-secondary nursing program.

The TN Visa Application Package: What to Bring to the Border

A well-organized and complete application package is the key to a smooth process. You must present the following documents to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer:

• [ ] Proof of Canadian Citizenship: Your valid, unexpired Canadian passport.
• [ ] Your Employer Support Letter: This is the most important document in your application. It’s a formal letter from your U.S. employer that must detail:
  • Your job title (“Registered Nurse”).
  • A detailed description of your professional duties.
  • The purpose and intended length of your employment (up to 3 years).
  • Your salary and remuneration.
  • A statement that you possess the required qualifications.
• [ ] CGFNS VisaScreen® Certificate: Your valid, original certificate.
• [ ] U.S. State Nursing License: Proof of your active RN license in the state of employment.
• [ ] Educational Credentials: Original or certified copies of your nursing degree or diploma.
• [ ] Canadian Nursing License: Verification of your Canadian RN license.
• [ ] Application Fee: Payment for the TN application fee (50-56 USD).

The Employer Support Letter is where most applications fail. A vague or incomplete letter is a common reason for denial. Our in-house legal team specializes in preparing and reviewing these letters to ensure they are flawless and meet all CBP requirements.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Step 1: Obtain Your Foundational Credentials

Before you can even apply for the visa, you must be qualified to practice in the U.S.

• CGFNS VisaScreen®: Start this process early, as it can take 3-6 months. As a Canadian-educated nurse, you are typically exempt from the English language exam, which significantly streamlines this step.
• U.S. State License: Apply for licensure by endorsement in the state you plan to work in. Since you’ve already passed the NCLEX-RN for your Canadian license, you won’t need to retake it.

Step 2: Secure Your U.S. Job Offer

With your credentials in hand or in progress, you can secure your job offer. This offer letter is the catalyst for your TN visa application.

This is often the most stressful part of the process. Our dedicated placement specialists match you with premier U.S. healthcare employers and help you secure an offer that meets your career goals.

Step 3: Prepare Your TN Visa Package

Once you have your job offer, gather all the documents from the checklist above. Organize them neatly in a folder for easy presentation to the CBP officer.

Step 4: Apply at a U.S. Port of Entry (POE)

As a Canadian citizen, you apply for TN status when you seek entry to the U.S.

• The Interview: Present your package to the CBP officer. They will review your documents and ask questions about your job, your qualifications, and your intent. Answer truthfully and confidently.
• Approval: If approved, the officer will stamp your passport and issue an I-94 record, which is your proof of legal status in the U.S. This record will show you are in “TN status” and specify your authorized period of stay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bring my family? Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can obtain TD (Trade Dependent) status to live with you in the U.S. They can study, but they cannot work.

Can I change employers? Yes, but your TN status is tied to a specific employer. To change jobs, you must file a new TN application with the new employer’s information, either at a POE or by filing with USCIS.

Your Journey Starts with True North

The TN visa is an unparalleled opportunity for Canadian nurses. While the process is detailed, it’s a well-defined path to a successful U.S. career.

At True North, we eliminate the stress and uncertainty. Our team of placement specialists and immigration legal experts provides hands-on support for every step—from CGFNS and licensing to securing the perfect job and ensuring your TN visa package is flawless.