Here is a testimonial for our US Attorney Fadi Minawi regarding his handling of a TN Visa application on behalf of one of our corporate immigration clients.

“Extremely thorough and informative. Fadi, walked me through all the different scenarios that were applicable for my TN visa application and explained what was expected as well as my rights.

I will definitely recommend Fadi’s services”

Evyonne

Good Job Fadi!

Fadi was fantastic!

He answered my many questions promptly and with unending patience. Fadi worked within my time constraints and with a US employer who was not particularly easy to work with.

I felt confident submitting my TN Visa application at US customs after our meeting.

Erin

TN Visa applications, those supposedly “quick and easy” NAFTA Work Permits that are issued at the border have become very popular over the years. The relatively minimal paperwork involved (compared with other US Work permits) and instantaneous processing, has made the TNs a favorite among Visa applicants and their US employers.

But like most “quick fixes” or “short-cuts” in life, the TN Visa solution is often good to be true. At an alarming rate, we are seeing more and more people with their tail between their legs after being refused their Visas at the border. Applicants are stunned to discover that it’s not so easy after all. USCIS officers are increasingly careful about who they let in and who they deny. Not only does the written job offer from the US employer have to be properly drafted containing the job title, duties, duration of employment, salary etc., but the applicant’s credentials (education and/or work experience) have to match up with their prospective US offer of employment.

But more concerning is that while the rules governing these NAFTA applications are uniform across the board (the rules are the same for everyone), the way in which they are applied ie,, how decisions are made, sadly are not so consistent. In this regard, I often tell our clients that “not all borders are created equal”. The reality is that when you apply for your TN Visa,  one border could refuse you whereas another could approve you. This is where the human element is infused in the process.

At our law office, we try to manage the unpredictability of TN Visa border uncertainties by monitoring the success and failure rate at the various ports of entry including at the Toronto airport, Niagara Falls Rainbow bridge, Kingston etc. It is by getting an idea of what type of TN applications will be reviewed most fairly at what border, that often makes all the difference in failure and success. Further, how the applicant presents herself or himself is also important so making sure you are prepared to properly articulate the nature of your job and the temporariness  of your stay in the US is key.

So the lesson here is that while the TN Visa paperwork is essential, equally important is to be sensitive about at what border one chooses to apply, which will depend on a number of factors including the job title, applicant’s disposition, and the general reputation of the border itself.  In a perfect world, none of this should matter but it certainly does in the real world.

Q. I have a job offer in the US. I require a TN Visa. I am considering purchasing a TN Visa Kit offered online. What is your view about TN Visa Kits?

___________

A.  This is a question that is often asked in many different ways. TN Visa Kits are what I consider a “Do-it-Yourself” approach to Visa applications. If you chose the apply, on your own, for a TN Visa or any type of US or Canadian visa for that matter, you assume the risks of self-counsel. Free information or paid by obtaining online Visa Kits can be of use in educating the general pubic about the TN Visa process.

But MAKE NO MISTAKE, free or paid information is NOT the same as being represented by competent immigration counsel. No kit can properly advise you properly concerning your specific circumstances. All they can do is give you general information that you have to understand and apply on your own.

Making an application for a US Visa is a major decision in one’s life. Your employment, residence as well as ability to cross the border is at stake. There are many different aspects to handling TN Visa cases including reviewing one’s credentials, supporting documents and job offer letter. There is also the consideration about border issues and representation which is a very important aspect of the process. After all it is at the port of entry that your TN Visa is issued.

So while Kits and free information are useful, do not fall into a false sense of security in thinking that there is a “magic bullet” that will get you a visa.

Hello Fadi

I just wanted to thank you for everything you did to help in the process of getting my TN visa.

Yesterday I went to the Peace Bridge and applied for the visa and had NO problems in getting my 3 year TN Visa so off to Texas I go.

Thanks again

Lorraine

Hi Fadi;

A quick note to say that all went well – and I got the TN visa for 3 years.
Just in Chicago now (missed my flight) – they were backed up in there -  and so I spent much time waiting.

Thank you for your guidance and help.
M.C.