Free Tool
TN Visa Cost
Calculator
Calculate the cost of TN visa for Canadian and Mexican professionals under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) trade agreement.
TN Visa Overview
🇨🇦 Canadian Citizens
- • Apply directly at US border/airport
- • No visa stamp needed
- • Same-day approval possible
- • Cost: $56 (I-94 fee)
- • Initial period: up to 3 years
🇲🇽 Mexican Citizens
- • Must apply at US Embassy/Consulate
- • Visa stamp required
- • Interview required
- • Cost: $315 (DS-160 fee)
- • Initial period: up to 3 years
Cost Calculator
TN is only available for specific USMCA-listed professions requiring at least a Bachelor's degree.
Cost Breakdown
Government Fees (2025)
I-94 Processing Fee$56
Total Government Fees$56
Total Cost
Same day (at port of entry)
$56
TN Visa Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Canadian or Mexican citizenship (green card holders not eligible)
- Job offer from US employer in USMCA-listed profession
- Bachelor's degree or higher in related field (most professions)
- Must work for US employer (not self-employed)
Required Documents
- Proof of citizenship (passport)
- Job offer letter with detailed job duties and qualifications
- Educational credentials (degree, transcripts)
- Credential evaluation if degree from outside US/Canada/Mexico
TN for Startup Founders
TN visa is popular among Canadian and Mexican professionals joining US startups as employees. However, there are important limitations:
TN Limitations for Founders
- • No self-employment: Must work for a US employer, not your own company
- • Majority ownership problematic: USCIS scrutinizes TN holders with controlling interest
- • Dual intent issues: TN is non-immigrant; green card intent can be problematic
- • Consider alternatives: E-2, O-1, or H-1B may be better for founders
Important Considerations
- • Renewable indefinitely: TN can be renewed in 3-year increments with no limit
- • TD spouse cannot work: Unlike H-4 or L-2, TD spouses cannot get work authorization
- • No lottery: TN has no cap or lottery system
- • Remote work: Must physically work in the US; remote work from Canada/Mexico not permitted
- • Employer-specific: Must get new TN for each new employer