Consulting Gigs

Hi,

I'm a self-employed consultant based in Montreal (Canadian citizen/resident). I have a bachelor's degree in commerce, and have spent over a dozen years working in the video game industry.

Current consulting work is focused on game business strategy stuff and economic development. Sometimes clients are big US-based media/game companies. Sometimes I actually do work for a city/state's economic development agency. The work usually consists of spending a day or two running a workshop for client execs, or sitting in on business/sales meetings.

All of it is super temporary (eg, 1 day gig), and I get paid by the US client in US$. Fee is usually in the US$250/hour range, but not always billed hourly per see.

I also go to the US often for conferences. When crossing the border, if I say I'm going to attend a conference, everything goes smooth.

If I say I'm going down for a meeting or to work with a client, I get pulled aside. Asked a bunch of questions (nature of work, my "credentials", how much I'll be paid, etc) and then let go. I've never been refused, but it is a hassle and made me miss a flight once.

I figured there should be an easier way. Either with a Nexus card, or stating some kind of status/exception right to the initial border guard.

Super quick research shows that a B1 doesn't apply since I'm getting paid by the US based entity. TN seems more like it, but not sure. And, unclear if Nexus helps with work status stuff. Not sure if there's anything else I should be looking at.

Thanks for any tips/pointers!

Jason

Hi:

I see you did not get replies.

But can I ask what has happened since you wrote in July.

My circumstance is very similar.

I have much TN experience, but have moved back to Canada. I will go to the USA around once a month for meetings and workshops.

Have you continued to go with B-1's.

Thanks in advance to share your experience.

Regards,
Lane