How to handle TN questions from US employers?

[usinca]

When asked 'can you work for any US employers without restriction', what to say (to even strenghten my candidacy) given most US employers probably know little about TN? Thanks.

[axolotl]

I usually say something to the effect of, "as a Canadian citizen I am eligible to apply for a work permit at the border which would allow me to work for you right away." This usually prompts some additional questions, at which point I explain more about what a TN is and what's involved. Although you'd be surprised, a lot of companies (at least where I am) are aware of TNs and often have at least one or two people working on a TN.

[usinca]

The hiring manager usually will seek advice from Legal Dept which will tell him/her all the risks involved, e.g. being rejected at the border, etc. This would put me in a disadvantagous position vs US candidates.

[axolotl]

All non-US citizens/permanent residents are in a disadvantageous position when applying for jobs in the US. It is not exclusive to TNs. I think TNs are in a better position than, say, H-1Bs because it is significantly easier (and cheaper) to get a TN than an H-1B.

[Steven]

When asked 'can you work for any US employers without restriction', what to say (to even strenghten my candidacy) given most US employers probably know little about TN? Thanks.

http://www.eeoc.gov/origin/index.html

Depends on the State as well, a lot of States have tougher laws in this regard, notably California.

What I would say is: define 'restriction'. Immigration law is not a restriction per se, it's a regulatory provision. If they actually start asking about immigration they have to be very careful what they say to avoid violating the Civil Rights Act.

Based on my prior experience, say as little as possible. Or apply for jobs where the person interviewing you is an immigrant themselves as they tend to be more sympathetic.

If you fit the job and you're the best candidate, then worry about it after the offer has been made, which is what they're supposed to do. If it turns out you can't get the paperwork, then you're an idiot for applying for a job where you stood no realistic chance of getting it, so why would you waste your time applying for jobs you can't get?