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 TN visa.
President & CEO
Michael Niren
Mr. Niren is CEO of VisaPlace LLC and the President and Managing Partner of VisaPlace Legal Canada, an immigration law firm based in Toronto, and VisaPlace Legal US a law firm registered in The District of Columbia, USA. Mr. Niren is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section, American Lawyers Association, and an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.
