TN Spotlight: Librarian

TN Category Overview

The TN category permits citizens of Canada and Mexico to enter the U.S. to provide prearranged professional services to a U.S. entity. Under the regulations, there are 63 professional occupations under which an individual may qualify. One such occupation is a Librarian. 

How to Qualify for TN Status as a Librarian

To qualify for TN visa status as a Librarian, an individual must possess one of the following:

• Master’s degree in Library Science (M.L.S.); or
• Bachelor’s degree in Library Science (B.L.S.) (for which another Baccalaureate or Licenciatura degree was a prerequisite).

Many colleges and universities have other names for their library science programs, such as Master of Information Studies or Master of Library and Information Studies. 

Typical Librarian Job Duties

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Librarians help people find information and conduct research for personal and professional use. A Librarian’s job duties may change based on the type of library they work in, such as public, academic, or medical libraries. 

Typical job duties include:

• Creating and using databases of library materials
• Organizing library materials so they are easy to find
• Helping library patrons conduct research 
• Researching new books and materials by reading book reviews, publishers’ announcements, and catalogs
• Maintaining existing library collections and choosing new books, videos, and other materials for purchase
• Planning programs for different audiences, such as story time for children
• Teaching classes about information resources
• Researching computers and other equipment for purchase, as needed
• Training and supervising library technicians, assistants, other support staff, and volunteers
• Preparing library budgets

There are many different types of Librarians and job duties are subject to change based on the type of library and professional setting. Examples of the different types of Librarians include Academic Librarians, Administrative Services Librarians, Public Librarians, School Librarians, Corporate Librarians, Law Librarians, Medical Librarians, Technical Services Librarians, and User Services Librarians.

Application Process

For citizens of Canada, applicants can submit a TN petition to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at any land port of entry or airport preclearance location throughout Canada. A decision will be made on the spot, and, if approved, the applicant may begin working in the U.S. the same day.

For citizens of Mexico, applicants need to schedule and attend an in-person interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Mexico. Upon approval, the applicant will be issued a TN visa inside his or her passport, which can then be used to gain entry to the U.S. in TN status. 

Additional Resources

Berardi Immigration Law regularly helps individuals obtain TN status and provides an individualized approach for each client. If you study or work as a Librarian and want to expand your career to the United States, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys today!