US Immigration News

How Does the US TD Visa Help Dependents of TN Visa Holders?

3 minute read
"Canadian and Mexican citizens have the ease of applying for a nonimmigrant (temporary) work permit known as the TN Visa in the United States under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It is one of the fastest ways for Canadians and Mexicans with a job offer to work in the US."
Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on:  Aug 9, 2021
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Canadian and Mexican citizens have the ease of applying for a nonimmigrant (temporary) work permit known as the TN Visa in the United States under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It is one of the fastest ways for Canadians and Mexicans with a job offer to work in the US. 

While the employment in the US may be temporary, oftentimes applicants want to bring their family members to reside with them in the US. For this, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers the TD Visa. The TD Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for accompanying family members of the TN Visa holder who has been authorized to live in the US.

What Are the Requirements for the TD Visa for Family Members?

Generally, TD Visa applicants are required to demonstrate that they have a spousal or parent-child relationship with the primary TN applicant. If their application is approved, the applicant will receive an I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. This I-94 stamp will state the authorized duration of your stay in the US. 

What Documents Are Required to Apply for the TD Visa?

The following documents are required to apply for the TD Visa:

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of marriage ceremony in form of invitation card, photos, guest lists, etc
  • Original and certified copies of marriage certificate
  • Original and certified copies of birth certificate

The following documents must be submitted by the primary TN Visa holder:

  • Copy of TN Visa holder’s passport
  • Copy of employment offer letter from the US employer
  • Recent pay stubs and a letter from the US employer
  • Receipt of TD Visa fee

What Is the Process of Applying for the TD Visa As a Canadian Citizen?

Since Canadian citizens are exempt from requiring a US Visitor Visa for a short-term stay in the US, they can simply apply for the TD Visa status at their first port of entry along with the TN Visa applicant. You will be required to present your passport to prove your Canadian citizenship.

If you are under the age of 16, then you will be required to submit your birth certificate or Canadian Citizenship Card.

The primary TN Visa applicant will be required to provide their proof of employment and other relevant documents to apply for the TN Visa. This process will demonstrate that you are eligible to obtain your TD Visa status.

What Is the Process of Applying for the TD Visa As a Mexican Citizen?

Mexicans, like most other countries, require a US Visa before traveling to the US. Therefore, TD Visa applicants must file for their TD stamp before they arrive in the US. They can apply at their nearest US Consulate or Embassy. All accompanying family members must electronically file Form DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application).

Once this application is approved, you will receive the TD Visa stamp on your passport. The TD Visa is valid only for a year for Mexican citizens. You will be required to present your stamped passport and other relevant documents to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry.

If everything is in order, you will be issued an I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Mexican citizens who have already extended their TD Visa once must leave the US to apply for a new TD Visa to maintain their status. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) About Immigration to Canada from India

Yes, TD Visa holders can enroll in any US educational institution without changing their visa category. The TD Visa is only available to dependent children under the age of 21. Therefore, older students will be required to switch to an appropriate Student Visa to continue their studies in the US.


As long as you stay in compliance with the rules and eligibility requirements of the TD Visa, you can extend your stay. You will be required to file for an extension at least 45 days before the expiry date of your visa. If you fail to do so, the USCIS may deny your application.


No, TD Visa holders are not authorized to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Meaning, they are not allowed to be employed in the US. If you want to work in the US, then you will be required to change your visa category.


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