Question 1

What is a TN Visa?

Accepted Answer

The Trade Nafta (TN) Visa is a U.S. work authorization program established under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as NAFTA.
It provides a streamlined, reliable pathway for qualified citizens of Mexico and Canada to work legally in the United States in professional, managerial, and supervisory positions. Within the hospitality industry, this includes strong opportunities under the “Hotel Manager” category, which encompasses a wide range of operational, administrative, and leadership roles across hotel departments.

Question 2

How long is a TN Visa valid?

Accepted Answer

The TN Visa can be issued for an initial period of up to four (4) years. After that, TN status may be renewed or extended indefinitely in three-year increments, as long as you continue meeting the eligibility requirements.

Important: The TN status is a temporary, non-immigrant classification. Applicants must maintain a clear intention to return to their home country at the end of their authorized stay.

Question 3

What is the TN Visa application process, and how long does it take?

Accepted Answer

The TN Visa application process is more streamlined and straightforward than most U.S. employment visas — and AJ1 will guide you at every step.

🇨🇦  Process for Canadian Citizens: 2 - 4 weeks
No visa appointment is required, therefore, you can apply directly at a U.S. port of entry (land border or airport pre-clearance).
 • Canadian nationals seeking TN Status often receive a same-day decision, with immediate admission into the United States if approved.

🇲🇽  Process for Mexican Citizens: 3 - 4 months
You must apply for a TN Visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Mexico before traveling.
 • Processing times can vary depending on the location, but typically take a few weeks (including appointment scheduling and visa issuance).

🇺🇸  Applicants already in the U.S.
If you are changing employers or extending your stay, your employer can file an I-129 petition with USCIS to obtain/extend TN Status without leaving the country.
 • Standard processing may take several months, while Premium processing guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days.

Question 4

What TN opportunities are available within the Hospitality industry?

Accepted Answer

The Hospitality sector offers a wide range of leadership and professional roles across hotels, resorts and country clubs. TN-eligible opportunities can be found across a variety of departments, including:
 • Food & Beverage
 • Culinary
 • Front Office and Guest Services 
 • Rooms Division and Housekeeping
 • Sales & Marketing
 • Events & Conference Services
 • Human Resources
 • Accounting
 • Engineering & Facilities

Roles may vary depending on the employer’s needs, the scale of the property, and the applicant’s qualifications. Candidates with a strong hospitality background, proven leadership experience, solid English proficiency, and the appropriate academic credentials will generally access the widest range of opportunities.

Question 5

Can a TN visa holder change employers while in the United States?

Accepted Answer

A TN visa holder is authorized to work exclusively for the employer named on their approved TN application. If you wish to change employers at any point, a new TN application is required and must be approved prior to starting work with the new organization.

If the TN holder is already in the United States, the new employer may file a Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) with USCIS to request a change of employer. Alternatively, the TN holder may exit the United States and apply for a new TN admission in their home country, following the appropriate consular or port-of-entry process.

Question 6

What costs are involved in the TN Visa Program?

Accepted Answer

AJ1’s TN Program includes a program fee that covers the administrative, advisory, and compliance services required for your participation in the TN visa process. In most cases the TN Program fee is paid by the employer, however, each property has its own internal policies regarding TN visas and international recruitment.

Depending on the employer the fee may be:
 • Paid fully upfront by the employer
 • Covered through payroll deductions or salary offsets
 • Reimbursed after a set period of employment
 • Paid directly by the participant
Regardless of the arrangement, AJ1 will clearly disclose all fees, payment structures, and expectations so that you can make an informed decision before accepting any job offer.

Government Fees
Participants are responsible for paying the standard fees required by the U.S. government:
 • U.S. Embassy/Consulate Application Fee (MRV): $185 USD (paid before scheduling your interview)
 • Visa Issuance/Reciprocity Fee (paid only if your visa is approved)
    • 1-Year Visa: $104 USD, 4-Year Visa: $384 USD
	*These fees are set by the U.S. government and are subject to change.

Travel and Other Personal Expenses
Participants should also budget for additional costs, which may vary based on location and personal preferences:
 • Travel – costs to attend your visa interview and to travel to your employer’s location in the United States.
 • Health Insurance – strongly recommended from your arrival in the United States until your employer-provided plan begins. AJ1 can assist with short-term coverage to ensure continuous protection.
 • Optional Services – such as document translation, travel booking assistance, or other personal arrangements.

Question 7

Can a TN visa holder bring their family to the United States?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A TN visa holder may bring eligible family members — their spouse and unmarried children under 21 — to the United States under TD (Trade Dependent) status.
TD status is directly linked to the TN holder’s status and remains valid for the same duration as the principal TN visa.

The process for dependents generally parallels that of the TN applicant:
 • Canadian citizen dependents do not require a visa. At the U.S. port of entry, they must present proof of Canadian citizenship, proof of relationship to the TN visa holder (e.g., marriage or birth certificate), and a copy of the TN holder’s admission documents.
 • Mexican citizen dependents must obtain a TD visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling, where they must present proof of Mexican citizenship, proof of relationship to the TN visa holder (e.g., marriage or birth certificate), and a copy of the TN holder’s admission documents. Their appointment may be scheduled on the same day as the TN applicant or after the TN applicant receives approval.

Key Considerations:
1. TD dependents cannot work in the United States, but they may study full- or part-time.
2. AJ1 can provide general guidance on the TD process; however, each dependent must meet the application requirements set by the U.S. government.

Hospitality TN Visa Program

Eligibility Requirements

Your TN Visa Experience with AJ1

Personalized Job Placements

We match you with a qualified U.S. hospitality employer offering a TN-eligible position aligned with your experience and career goals.

Visa & Relocation Support

Our team guides you through every step of the TN visa process. This includes documentation & interview preparation, coordination with your employer, and housing assistance when applicable.

Pre-Arrival/Ongoing Guidance

We provide orientation sessions to help you understand U.S. workplace culture and life essentials, along with continued support during and after your relocation.

What We Expect From You

TN Program Application Process

1

Online Application

2

Pre-Selection Interview

You will receive an email with the date and time of your pre-selection interview with AJ1's TN Program Director, Andrea Saldivar.

During your interview, be prepared to discuss your experience, background and goals.

We suggest you take this opportunity to ask any questions related to the TN Visa, and our TN Program.

3

Program Deposit &
Document Verification

Applicants without a secured placement are required to submit a $200.00USD deposit to confirm their commitment and participation in the TN Program.

After your application has been accepted, and your deposit has been submitted, you may begin uploading the required documents.

Please allow 3-4 business days for document review.

4

Interviews &
Placement

5

Approval & Arrival

Follow the appropriate consular or port-of-entry process. If requested, AJ1 will help you prepare for your U.S. Embassy/Consulate interview.

Congratulations! Your TN status has been approved and you may now arrange travel plans to officially begin your new leadership role in the United States.

Memorandum of Understanding