Applying for TN visa 3 weeks in advance: Is it too early?

Hi!

I am a Canadian citizen. My official start date at my new job is Septembe 6th. I'm currently planning of crossing the border and applying for a TN-1 on August 15th. So I'll be applying 21 days before my official start date. My letter of application from the company doesn't mention any dates but says that I will be needed "immediately".

I would like to know if this is too early and if my chances of getting refused entry are too high.

Thanks in advance!

You will get TN on Aug 15th. To be sure, just arrange a telephone meeting with your new employer for that date. You can then tell the border you are indeed strting immediately.

I'll keep this suggestion in mind, but I'm wondering if the officier won't find this excuse a little ludicrous.

I'm considering moving my move date forward to arrive 2 weeks in advance instead of 3. Is this more acceptable? I'm a little frustrated by this because I can't find anything official regarding the preliminary arrival period. Is this purely subjective on the officer's part?

It is subjective. Technically they are not to admit you in TN unless you are beginning TN. So, be happy that they let you in even one day before.

The suggestion is not ludicrous; work is work.