On the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, host Evelyn Ackah shares insights from a recent webinar on navigating work visa options for Canadian professionals seeking opportunities in the United States. In this episode, Evelyn explores the visa categories and strategies that help Canadian professionals cross borders seamlessly. She covers everything you need to know about the implications of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the TN Visa for skilled professionals, and other work visa options like the L1A and E1. Whether you’re professional planning to work in the U.S. or an employer seeking to understand cross-border immigration solutions, this episode offers practical guidance and expert advice. Join Evelyn as she breaks down visa requirements, discusses application strategies, and provides tips for a smooth border-crossing experience.

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Here are the key points from Evelyn Ackah’s podcast:

The podcast webinar delves into the specific requirements and nuances of each visa category:

    • B1 Business Visitor Visa: This visa facilitates short-term business activities like meetings and conferences but strictly prohibits work. Evelyn stresses the importance of accurate representation to U.S. immigration officials, as any mention of “work,” even unpaid, can jeopardize the visa and impact future travel. Employers share the responsibility of preparing their employees for travel by providing clear instructions and necessary documentation.
    • TN Professional Visa: This visa caters to professionals with a four-year degree in a designated profession. While renewable indefinitely, it does not typically lead to a green card. The few exceptions to the degree requirement include management consultants, who need at least five years of proven experience, and scientific technicians/technologists, who must work under a degreed professional’s supervision. Notably, applicants must present original documents, including degrees and contracts.
    • L1 Intracompany Transfer Visa: Designed for employees moving from a Canadian company to its related U.S. entity, the L1 visa mandates at least 12 months of prior employment with the Canadian company. It branches into two subcategories:
      • L1A: This visa applies to executives, managers and functional managers who oversee essential functions even without direct reports.
      • L1B: This visa accommodates specialized knowledge workers possessing unique skills and knowledge vital to the U.S. business.
    • E1 and E2 Treaty Trader Visas: These visas, based on trade or investment activities, require a longer processing time through the U.S. embassy, taking 4-8 months.
      • E1: Designed for treaty traders with substantial trade volume between the U.S. and Canada.
      • E2: This visa requires a significant investment in a U.S. business, often exceeding $150,000.

    Additional tips Evelyn shared:

    • Renewals for TN and L1 visas are best handled at the port of entry to avoid processing delays.
    • Applicants should disclose any past criminal offences to avoid potential issues with admissibility.
    • Dependents’ visa requirements and work eligibility vary based on the primary applicant’s visa category.
    • Thorough preparation is key, including documentation, understanding the process, and maintaining a courteous demeanour throughout.

        About Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah

        Evelyn Ackah is the Founder and Managing Lawyer at Ackah Business Immigration Law. With offices in Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver, we work with individuals and business owners from all over the world who want to cross borders seamlessly. For more information on immigration to Canada or the United States, Ask Evelyn Ackah at Ackah Business Immigration Law today at (587) 854‑3821 or email Evelyn directly at contact@ackahlaw.com.

        The Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, hosted by Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah, was named the #1 Best Canada Immigration Podcast in 2023 by Feedspot.

        Need immigration help? Book An Initial Call With Our Client Engagement Coordinator