Can you live in the US on a TN visa?
Sarah Duran
Published Apr 18, 2026
Well, the TN visa is a non-immigrant type of visa classification that is available to the citizens of Mexico and Canada. Those who have a TN visa can work and live in the U.S. – initially for 3 years, after which you can extend the period indefinitely, regardless of how many years you plan on staying there.
Can TN visa be converted to green card?
Can TN visa holders transition to a green card? This is one of the most common questions that TN visa holders ask, especially after they have spent some time in the U.S. The short answer is yes, it is indeed possible to obtain permanent resident status as a TN visa holder.
How long can I stay outside the US on a TN visa?
Current U.S. laws and regulations say that Mexican and Canadian citizens can stay in the U.S. in TN status for periods up to three years. Even better, TN workers are supposed to be able to extend their stays indefinitely, in three-year increments, so long as they satisfy the requirements under the TN program.
Can you get married on a TN visa?
The TN visa can be a great way for Canadian and Mexican citizens to come and work in the United States in certain specialized occupations. The good news is that as the spouse of a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you can usually switch from a TN visa to a marriage-based green card, also known as a spousal visa.
Can a Canadian citizen apply for a TN visa?
In general, Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter the U.S so after they find a job, they can choose not to apply for the TN visa. Instead, they will get the TN qualifications at specific Port of Entries of U.S airports or in Pre-Flight Inspection Offices.
Do you have to leave the US to get a TN visa?
You may also be required to leave the United States during this time. One disadvantage to TN status is that it only applies to a specific group of professions. Specifically, you must qualify under one of the 60+ professions on the professional occupations list in order to be eligible for TN status.
What are the requirements for a TN-1 visa?
TN-1 Visa basic requirements Prospective TN-1 visa applicants must meet the following basic requirements, they must: Be a Canadian citizen Have a US job offer in an eligible profession (see below) which requires someone with their professional skills
Can a Mexican citizen apply for a TN-2 visa?
The TN-2 visa is for Mexican citizens that want to work in the U.S as NAFTA professionals. In comparison to Canadian citizens, those from Mexico are required to apply for a TN visa at U.S Embassies and cannot simply get the qualification at U.S port of entries. To apply for the TN visa, you need to follow these steps: