How It Works

What TN status means for a Canadian RN

The TN visa exists under USMCA and lets Canadian citizens work temporarily in the United States in a defined list of professional occupations, including Registered Nurse.

Unlike H-1B, there's no lottery

TN status has no annual cap or random selection for Canadians. But it does require a real job offer from a US employer first.

Who qualifies

Canadian citizens with a valid US state RN license (or a Licenciatura nursing degree), and a prearranged job offer from a US healthcare employer.

VisaScreen certificate

A CGFNS (or Josef Silny) VisaScreen Certificate is required at the border, even for Canadian RNs. Processing typically takes 3-6 months, so it's worth starting early, before you have an offer in hand.

Employer-specific

TN status is tied to a specific US employer and role. Job duties need to genuinely match the RN occupation on the USMCA list, not just the job title.

The process, step by step

  1. We learn your background

    Your current license, province, specialty, and where in the US you're open to working.

  2. Start your VisaScreen early

    Since CGFNS processing takes months, we'll point you toward starting this before a US offer is even in hand.

  3. Matching with a US employer

    We connect you with US facilities looking to hire Canadian RNs for roles matching your specialty and licensure.

  4. TN application & entry

    Once you have a job offer, TN status is generally requested at a US port of entry or pre-flight inspection, with your job offer letter, credentials, and VisaScreen certificate in hand.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a job offer before applying for TN status?

Yes. TN status requires a prearranged job offer from a US employer in a qualifying occupation. It isn't something you can apply for speculatively without one.

How long does VisaScreen take?

Typically 3-6 months through CGFNS or Josef Silny & Associates. Start it as early as possible, ideally before you have a US job offer in hand.

Is there a cap on TN visas for Canadians?

No annual lottery or numerical cap applies to Canadian citizens under USMCA, unlike the H-1B program.

Can my US license transfer directly from my Canadian one?

You'll need a valid license in the US state where you'll work. Requirements vary by state; we help you understand what's needed for your specific situation.

Ready to start?

Nurses and employers both start the same way. Tell us where you are today.