TN Visa under Accountant category

Hi Everyone, I have recently joined the group as I have found it very helpful in the past. I am trying to move to the U.S. on a TN visa. I am a financial analyst by profession and I have been offer...

Canadian Expatriate and Travellers Forum Index -> Canadians in the USA -> US Visas and Immigration

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kamatr2
New Member

Joined: 05 Apr 2008
Posts: 3

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2008 7:54 am

Hi Everyone,

I have recently joined the group as I have found it very helpful in the past. I am trying to move to the U.S. on a TN visa. I am a financial analyst by profession and I have been offered a similar position in the U.S. This is an accounting position.

I want to know if I would fall under the Accountant category based on my educational background. I have a Bachelor's degree in Business Computer Information Systems from the States, which included accounting and business courses, as well as IT courses. I also have a Master's degree in Finance, which did not include accounting courses specifically, but really I believe Finance is a part of Accounting. I do not have any accounting designation.

My job offer matches my current work experience. I understand that work experience does not count under the Accountant category and that my degrees are not an exact match, but what are my chances? Do I really need an Accounting degree or will business or related degrees do?

Any input/feedback is greatly appreciated.

Thanks very much in advance!

RK

Christopher G. Rizzo, Esq
CanuckAbroad VIP

Joined: 17 Oct 2007
Posts: 255
Location: Red Bank, NJ USA

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2008 12:39 pm

I think you're worrying about nothing, you're certainly qualified.
_________________
Christopher G. Rizzo, Esq
Special Counsel
Law Offices of David T. Ferrara, LLC
www.naftalawfirm.com
P: (732) 784-2877
Email: Crizzo@naftalawfirm.com

kamatr2
New Member

Joined: 05 Apr 2008
Posts: 3

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2008 2:23 pm

Thanks, Chris. That's what I thought!

However, the company's lawyer has come back saying I am not qualified as an Accountant since I dont have an accounting degree, which is why I was looking for a second opinion.

Thanks for confirming.

RK

Christopher G. Rizzo, Esq
CanuckAbroad VIP

Joined: 17 Oct 2007
Posts: 255
Location: Red Bank, NJ USA

Posted: Sun Apr 06, 2008 6:48 am

The lawyer is incorrect. I've never had a TN accountant WITH and accounting degree. (Accounting degrees are rare outside of the U.S.)

The lawyer needs to read the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Most lawyers know next to nothing about TNs. Most immigration lawyers don't know much.
_________________
Christopher G. Rizzo, Esq
Special Counsel
Law Offices of David T. Ferrara, LLC
www.naftalawfirm.com
P: (732) 784-2877
Email: Crizzo@naftalawfirm.com

rlbpgc
New Member

Joined: 06 May 2008
Posts: 3
Location: Virginia

Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 10:34 am

Your lawyer is correct. I have a bachelor's degree in Finance and Business Economics and have 7+ yrs in accounting experience and I have been denied twice to have a TN for an accounting position.

kamatr2
New Member

Joined: 05 Apr 2008
Posts: 3

Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 12:14 pm

I got my TN visa at the Ogdensburg border 2 weeks ago. No questions asked, all they wanted to see was my letter and degree certificates and I was out in 20 minutes. I may have just been lucky, but I'm glad I didnt have any problems!