Graphic Designer TN-1 visa - question

Hey guys, have a question you may be able to help me with.

I am in the process of applying for a TN1-visa through a game company in the U.S. that just offered me a position. I am just wondering ahead of time if I will get the visa with my current experience:

I went to C.D.I.S (now its the Art Institute in Vancouver) for an 18 month course. its an accredited private school. not sure what that means. I received a diploma in 'digital animation masters program' where it covers all art areas. I also have 4.5 years of work experience as well.

I am curious if this is going to be enough to get the TN1-visa? I just don't want to jump ahead and arrange the big move if I know that there is a very small chance that it will go anywhere.

thanks guys!

The requirement is to have a post secondary diploma or certificate.Will they ask the duration? I don,t know as they can and there requirement is a 2 year diploma. Do all immigration officers know that possibly not.Is it a risk that you can take not sure? Can you get a letter stating that it is an intensive course and is the equivalent to a 2 year post secondary. This could be useful to flip out if they ask. You are never prepared enough for these poeple. Good Luck

18 months means two years if you broke for summer, what they're talking about is an Associate's Degree or equivalent.

Hey guys, thnx for the comments.

so, It would be enough? or probably not? as mentioned I have a 'diploma' but its from a private school. however it is an accredited private school. not sure what that means though.

I was under the impression that it was a 18 intensive continual.Steve is right if there was a summer break i agree just get a letter from the college to be sure it states a 2 year program. Aslo be careful with private schools. You need to be sure it is recognized by USCIS that it is an Institution of Higher Education.
Good Luck

Thanks,

yah, there was a summer break. But as mentioned, it is a private school. even with my 4.5 years of experience, it looks like I may be out of luck I'm guessing?

I am a Graphic Designer as well, and interested in finding work in the U.S. Please let me know how you applied for jobs in the US to get you this offer. Did you apply online from Canada, then fly in for interviews. Thanks

Hi Designgirl. yes. I did apply from canada and then was flown out to interview with the company. they also are taking care of all the visa stuff I just had to give them the information.

It may be worthwhile consulting an immigration lawyer in Canada, the first consultation is often free.cos maybe your experience will take precedence over the degree issue.

Hi everyone,

Have read through the forum, great info out there!

I have a question about my particular situation. I'm an artist with a (one year) accredited college certificate and 7 years (freelance) work experience.

I'm noticing on most sites now, 'certificate' is not mentioned at all under the Graphic Designer profession.

If a certificate is still feasible, does it have to be two years? I'm finding mixed info on that and would like to confirm.

Also, any tips on establishing proof of freelance work would be great. It's hard to prove a 'living' to some. Thank you!