Urgent Question - Resignation before TN

Hi everyone,

I have an urgent question. I am planning to start work on April 28th with an employer in the states but I need to get my TN before I give notice to my current employer (2 weeks). The employers lawyers are telling me its my decision, they cannot guarantee the permit but should have no problem but its my decision to give my notice.

What happens if I give my notice and then don't get the permit? What are my options? Is there any way for me to get the permit a few weeks before starting work? . apparently not? Surprise me?

Some ports you can go 30 days in advance. Peace Bridge and Alexandria Bay, NY Ports for example.

Hi Mr. Rizzo

Thanks for the response. Unfortunately, I am in Vancouver, seeking employment in Seattle. What do you suggest?

Thanks
R

Some ports you can go 30 days in advance. Peace Bridge and Alexandria Bay, NY Ports for example.

I'm not aware of any Western Port which allows this.

Thank you. The inconsistency is really bothering; it really causes a pickle. I have to resign before securing a position.

Has to be done I guess .

I'm not aware of any Western Port which allows this.

Hi Mr. Rizzo

Last question, I have lawyers that have drafted a document for me for my TN entry and they work with my employer to be. They have no start date on the TN letter. Is one needed 100%? It just says, starting immediately or as soon as possible.

Should I get the letter re-done?

Thanks
C

Thank you. The inconsistency is really bothering; it really
causes a pickle. I have to resign before securing a position.

Has to be done I guess .

I'm not aware of any Western Port which allows this.

The inconsistency is a recurring theme here, welcome to the wonderful world of border crossing!

Your question really depends on the nature of your relationship with your current employer. I suggest having a sit-down with your boss, explaining your situation. Maybe your position can remain "open" until you are clear? Generally customs officers don't really want to give you a TN visa status until the very few days prior to the start of your work. You can try 2 weeks before. But every time you are turned down it makes it harder to get a positive answer in the future. You can even try calling them ahead of time. Also I recommend the Sumas crossing straight down the 11, I hear it's "friendlier".

Good luck!

Oh, and as far as changing the date of your letter, nobody will recommend you go against the law in this forum. Remember a TN visa is good for 1 year only. They will give you a visa starting on the day you are approved, ending 1 day before that the following year. (i.e. from April 4 08 to April 3 09). The end date is your deadline for leaving the country. Depending on the type of work you are hired to do, the earlier end date may or may not work. But once in, you can always renew by mail via a I-129.

Hi there,

Thanks for your response; if I change the date, it will be legally. I recently received my support letter but a very qualified law firm that works with my employer and they said that it is not a 100% requirement to have a start date as long as it says immediately or as soon as possible.

I am concerned of being turned away because of a lack of start date?

Thanks
C

Oh, and as far as changing the date of your letter, nobody will recommend you go against the law in this forum. Remember a TN visa is good for 1 year only. They will give you a visa starting on the day you are approved, ending 1 day before that the following year. (i.e. from April 4 08 to April 3 09). The end date is your deadline for leaving the country. Depending on the type of work you are hired to do, the earlier end date may or may not work. But once in, you can always renew by mail via a I-129.

We've been to the Blaine POE twice, and they were very nice there, but this is the place where they always ask us "are you on your way", or "are you ready to travel". In other words, they'll give it a few days in advance of the job start date, but not ahead of the US entry date. They want you to be en route. This has been our experience, for your consideration. The TN was dated for the date issued and expired one day earlier the following year.