moving

Hi Folks,

Do I really need a lawyer for a TN visa? If so what are the approximate fees. Thanks in advance.

Former Lancastrian

As the TN visa is a US visa you might get a better reply on the US forums. As far as Im aware no lawyer is not required for the TN visa.

ian-mstm

No. You are either eligible or you're not. If you're eligible, all you need is the appropriate documents.

Ian

MarylandNed

The vast majority of people don't need a lawyer for a TN application. Insufficient documentation is a common cause for denial so one reason to consult with a lawyer is if you're unsure of the required documentation - or if you would just feel better with some preparation. Apart from that, you'd only need a lawyer if you have inadmissibility issues e.g. a criminal record.

neill

Your company should write a "TN letter" addressed to USCIS, sent to you, for presentation at the border. This doesn't absolutely need to be written by a lawyer. Some of the things it addresses are Salary and length of stay (even if a 'permanent' position -- all TN stays are temporary). There are plenty of examples online.

Just a minor thing - unless you're sending your passport off for stamping, (which Canadians don't have to do), what you're getting when you apply at the border in person is TN status, not a visa.

Also: cost of TN application at the border is U.S. $56, good idea to have it in cash.

Steve_

Depends on the category you're going in under. If it's management consultant or systems analyst it's a good idea to check with a lawyer because CBP can be very inconsistent on how they interpret that at the POE.

In the CBP guidance it red flags anyone coming in under those categories, so a local lawyer will be familiar with how the supervisor at the local POE does it.

The biggest red flag is if your job as systems analyst says anything about programming.

Also, make sure the job offer letter is correctly worded - name of job, length of job, qualifications needed for job. The more vague it is the more problems you will have. Make sure you have proof of your qualifications with you.