For general information only, not legal advice
TN Visa Sponsorship
A U.S. Work Authorization Pathway for Canadian and Mexican Nurses
What is the TN Visa?
The TN visa is a non-immigrant work authorization available to Canadian and Mexican citizens. U.S. Registered Nurses are among the eligible professions, making it an accessible pathway for qualified nurses to work in the United States.
Unlike the EB3 visa, the TN visa does not lead directly to permanent residency, but it can be renewed indefinitely and can allow you to begin working in the U.S. while you explore long-term immigration options. Canadian citizens generally apply for TN status at a U.S. port of entry, while Mexican citizens obtain a TN visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate before entering the U.S. Nurse Global Recruiter works with U.S. employers that sponsor TN nurses and can guide you through the process with immigration support.
Who Qualifies?
Canadian or Mexican Citizenship
You must be a citizen of Canada or Mexico. Permanent residents who are not citizens do not qualify for TN status.
U.S. Registered Nurse License
You must hold a valid U.S. RN license (NCLEX passer) in the state where you will be employed.
Visa Screen Certificate
A valid Visa Screen Certificate issued by Trumerit is required. This credential verification confirms your nursing education, licensure, and English proficiency meet U.S. standards.
English Proficiency
You must meet the English-language proficiency requirements for your VisaScreen certification, such as through accepted IELTS or OET results when applicable.
Job Offer from a U.S. Employer
A U.S. healthcare employer must provide a formal job offer letter specifying your role as a Registered Nurse.
Clean Background
A clean criminal background and admissibility to the United States are required for TN entry.
Critical Thinking Skills
Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking are essential for U.S. nursing practice. The NCLEX is built around clinical decision-making, and U.S. employers consistently rank it among the top qualities they look for in candidates.
The TN Visa Process - Step by Step
Apply with NGR
Submit your application to Nurse Global Recruiter. Our team reviews your credentials and will invite you for the Zoom meeting if you meet all the eligibility requirements. If you agree with the Agreements, we will match you to the U.S. employer who will invite you for the job interview.
Receive a Job Offer Letter
If you passed the job interview, your sponsoring U.S. employer provides a detailed offer letter confirming your position as a Registered Nurse, your salary, and the duration of employment.
Prepare Your Documents
Gather your nursing degree, NCLEX results, U.S. RN license, proof of Canadian or Mexican citizenship, VisaScreen certificate, and the employer offer letter.
Complete Your TN Application
Canadian citizens generally apply for TN status at a U.S. port of entry or pre-clearance location. Mexican citizens apply for a TN visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling to the United States.
Receive TN Status
Upon approval, you are granted TN status for up to three years, with the ability to renew indefinitely as long as you maintain your employment and eligibility.
Begin Working in the U.S.
With your TN visa approved, you can begin your nursing career in the United States and start building your future.
Benefits of the TN Visa
Fast Processing
TN processing can be faster than many employment-based pathways. Canadian citizens generally apply at a port of entry, while Mexican citizens apply through a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Renewable Indefinitely
TN status can be renewed in three-year increments with no cap on the number of renewals.
Family Can Accompany You
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you to the U.S. on TD (Trade Dependent) status. TD dependents are not authorized to work in the United States.
No Employer Petition Required
Unlike H-1B or EB3, TN does not require the employer to file a petition with USCIS - reducing processing time.
Intent Flexibility
While TN is a non-immigrant visa, many TN nurses pursue EB3 sponsorship to secure a path to permanent residency.
TN vs. EB3 - Which is Right for You?
The TN visa may be a strong option if you are a qualified Canadian or Mexican citizen looking to work in the U.S. The EB3 visa is the right choice if your goal is U.S. permanent residency (Green Card). Many nurses pursue both, starting on TN status while their EB3 petition is being processed. Nurse Global Recruiter can help you understand which pathway best fits your situation.
TN Visa
- Faster approval than EB3 for eligible Canadian and Mexican U.S. Registered Nurses
- Canadian and Mexican application processes differ
- Renewable indefinitely
- Available to Canadian and Mexican citizens
EB3 Visa
- Leads to permanent residency (Green Card)
- Open to all nationalities
- Longer processing time
- Path to U.S. citizenship
Want to learn more about EB3? Visit our EB3 Visa Sponsorship page
Ready to Start Your TN Visa Journey?
Nurse Global Recruiter guides qualified Canadian and Mexican nurses through the TN visa process. Apply today and take the first step toward your U.S. nursing career.