Acquiring a (TN?) visa while on visitation

dtomas
New Member



Joined: 06 Aug 2008
Posts: 2
Location: Walnut Creek, CA

Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2008 7:42 am

 

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Wow, finding this forum was a god-send. I've been having trouble finding the exact information I'm looking for regarding my situation.

Anyways, I'm a 17 year old Canadian citizen about to enjoy my second month of visitation in the states. I came from Manitoba and I currently live with a good friend in Walnut Creek, California.

I am looking for a way to extend my visit here, and seeing as I am going to need a job to pay for things, the TN visa looks like a good option. However, I'm unsure if I will qualify, as I have no degree. I do, however, have extensive experience in Web Development, and I already have several employers willing to hire me here if possible.

Also, will I be able to apply for the visa while living here, or will I have to return home to Canada first? And would I be able to qualify for the visa for an additional year on top of the time I've already spent here, or is it only for 1 year total?

If a TN isn't what I should be applying for, are there any other options for someone in my situation who wants to stay in the US longer than 6 months?

** oh, and if it makes a difference, I turn 18 two days after my 6-month visa-less visit runs out **

Thank you in advance,
Daniel

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Steven
CanuckAbroad VIP



Joined: 28 Sep 2007
Posts: 1587
Location: Calgary

Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2008 9:49 am

 

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I think it's very unlikely you'd get it, web developer doesn't fit into any of the NAFTA categories. Systems analyst is the closest but that requries evidence of qualifications and experience.

You have to apply at the POE with the supporting documentation.
_________________
Steve.

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rangermcfadden
New Member



Joined: 21 Sep 2008
Posts: 5
Location: London

Posted: Sun Sep 21, 2008 2:54 pm

 

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In the future you should note that if you choose to attend a post-secondary school you will be eligible for a J-1 summer work program like the SWAP one or one offered by your school.

When you're in school you'll be eligible for J-1 internships and when you have some work experience you'll be eligible for J-1 professional career training.

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gescores
Junior Member



Joined: 24 May 2008
Posts: 25
Location: Virginia

Posted: Thu Sep 25, 2008 6:58 pm

 

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And you can't sign any document legally before you are 18 I believe, correct me if I'm wrong.

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CalGreenCard
CanuckAbroad Regular



Joined: 16 Feb 2008
Posts: 65

Posted: Thu Sep 25, 2008 8:59 pm

 

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You can legally use your time here in the USA to meet with prospective clients provided it is understood that the actual work will be done when you are back in Canada. No actual work can be done in the USA without a visa--and a TN visa requires at least a post-secondary diploma and three years' experience. Perhaps you can do some Web Development work remotely from Canada while you work on a diploma--which would get you the experience you need plus give you a foot in the door in the USA job market for when you are eligible for a TN.

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