TN Visa Sponsorship Guide for Employers
Everything your HR department needs to know about hiring Canadian professionals on TN visas.
The Process at a Glance
Confirm the role qualifies
The position must fall under one of the 63 USMCA professions. Check the full list at /professions.
Write the employer support letter
This is the most critical document. It must detail the job duties, qualifications, and temporary nature of the position.
Candidate applies at the border
For Canadians: they present the letter and credentials at a US port of entry or airport preclearance. Approval is typically same-day.
Alternative: File I-129 with USCIS
For complex cases or risk-averse applicants, you can file Form I-129 by mail. Takes 3-5 months (15 days with premium processing).
Candidate starts work
Once approved, the candidate receives an I-94 authorizing work for up to 3 years. Renewable indefinitely.
Your Responsibilities as Employer
- Write the support letter — this is the employer's primary obligation. See our detailed letter guide.
- Ensure the role matches a TN profession — the job title and duties must align with a USMCA profession.
- Pay filing fees (if using I-129) — the employer typically pays the petition fees.
- Maintain records — keep copies of the support letter, I-94, and approval notices.
- File a new petition for changes — if the employee changes roles, locations, or if you're a new employer, a new TN application is required.
Costs
| Method | Cost to Employer |
|---|---|
| Port of Entry (candidate pays) | $80 (land) or $50 (airport) |
| I-129 (large employer, 26+ FTE) | $1,615 |
| I-129 (small employer, ≤25 FTE) | $810 |
| Premium processing (optional) | +$2,965 (15 business day guarantee) |
See the full fee breakdown for details.
The Support Letter
The employer support letter is the single most important document. A weak letter is the #1 reason for TN visa denials. Your letter must include:
- Company letterhead with full contact information
- The exact USMCA profession name
- 5-7 detailed job duties tied to the profession
- Candidate's qualifications and how they meet requirements
- Employment terms: start date, end date, salary, location
- Temporary nature statement
Read our complete letter guide or use the interactive letter builder.
Timeline
- Port of Entry: Same day. Candidate can start work immediately after approval.
- I-129 (standard): 3-5 months. Candidate cannot start until approved.
- I-129 (premium): 15 business days. Add $2,965 to filing fees.
- Renewal: Same process, same timelines. Can be done up to 3 years at a time, indefinitely.
Compliance
- TN workers are authorized to work only for the sponsoring employer in the specified role.
- Any material change (new role, new location, new employer) requires a new TN application.
- TN workers cannot be self-employed — the employer must be an independent entity.
- Complete an I-9 form within 3 days of the employee's start date.
- The I-94 serves as proof of work authorization for I-9 purposes.