If you’re in the U.S. on a TN visa and considering taking on a second job, you may be wondering: Can I work for multiple employers under TN status? The answer is yes, but there’s a major caveat—you must obtain separate TN approvals for each employer before beginning work.
How the TN Visa Works
The TN visa, created under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the U.S. in specific professional occupations. While it’s a non-immigrant visa, the TN is known for being relatively flexible compared to other work visas—including the ability to work part-time and for more than one employer, if properly authorized.
Key Requirement: Separate Approval for Each Employer
Working for more than one employer on a TN visa is not automatically permitted. You must obtain approval for each job separately, and both positions must meet the following conditions:
- The job must qualify under a TN-approved profession listed in the USMCA.
- The employer must provide an offer letter outlining the duties, salary, and duration of employment.
- You must apply and be approved before beginning work for the additional employer.
How to Add an Employer to Your TN Visa
There are a few ways to add another employer to your TN visa:
From Outside the U.S.
- Apply at a U.S. consulate or, for Canadians, at a port of entry.
- Submit a separate application for each employer.
From Inside the U.S.
- File Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to add the new employer.
- Wait for approval before starting the new job.
It’s critical that you do not begin working for the new employer until USCIS (or a port of entry officer) has approved your TN status for that specific role.
Part-Time Employment Is Allowed
Another benefit of the TN visa is that part-time employment is permitted. This allows professionals to legally divide their time between multiple employers, as long as each one has received the appropriate TN authorization.
Consequences of Noncompliance
Starting work for a new employer without proper authorization is a serious violation of your visa terms. It can result in:
- Immediate loss of TN status
- Denial of future immigration benefits
- Potential removal proceedings
To avoid jeopardizing your legal status, it’s essential to follow the proper procedures for adding a new employer.
Final Thoughts
The TN visa offers flexibility, but only when used correctly. Whether you’re looking to add a second employer or transition to part-time work across multiple jobs, our experienced immigration attorneys can guide you through the process and ensure full compliance.
Schedule a consultation with our team today to protect your status and move forward with confidence.
