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 Social Worker.
How to Qualify for TN Status as a Social Worker
To qualify for TN visa status as a Social Worker, an individual must possess one of the following:
Bachelor’s degree; or
Licenciatura Degree.
Typical Social Worker Job Duties
Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers also diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues. Typical job duties include:
Identifying people and communities in need of help
Assessing clients’ needs, situations, strengths, and support networks to determine their goals
Helping clients adjust to changes and challenges in their lives, such as illness, divorce, or unemployment
Researching, referring, and advocating for community resources, such as food stamps, childcare, and healthcare to assist and improve a client’s well-being
Responding to crisis situations such as child abuse and mental health emergencies
Following up with clients to ensure that their situations have improved
Maintaining case files and records
Developing and evaluating programs and services to ensure that basic client needs are met
Providing psychotherapy services
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 Social Worker and want to expand your career to the United States, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys today!
