VISA FOR SUMMER UNPAID INTERNSHIP - TN GOOD?

Hi y'all,

I have a question concerning the TN VISA for a unpaid internship. I know there are other topics like this, but it's still not clear, because the company I'm applying for is not part of approved US immigration companies. Here's my situation:

-I am a Canadian citizen with no other ongoing visa or status in the US
-I have been asked to do a 3 month unpaid internship in the U.S. starting from next month (July 2010).
-The company is willing to provide a letter stating my work conditions, experience, etc...
-It is an industrial design position (in the NAFTA professional list)
-I don't think there is enough time to process any other kind of visa other than the TN
-I have an acceptance letter to a master's degree next year as proof of temporary stay.

Here are my questions:
-Is a TN visa eligible for unpaid internships (even if it's short)?
-I have barely 3 years of work experience in my field, is that going to a problem? I can account for 2 years with recommendation letters etc.. But I was doing freelance for a year, do I have to justify it, and if so, how?
-Who can I ask about these things that is qualified enough? Should I call the US consulate?

Thank you in advance... This stuff is so complicated!

-- Thu Jun 10, 2010 5:33 am --

Oh, and I've also looked at J-1 visa, but I don't understand the concept of sponsor organizations.

Does that mean the company willing to provide an internship has to be part of these organizations, or is it that these sponsors are a third party who provide the administrative credibility of your application?

thx

You cannot get a TN for unpaid work. TN is a professional status.

You need a J visa.

Hi! I am in the exact same situation as you. What did you eventually end up doing? What kind of visa did you get?

You need J visa. Depending on the industry, you can sometimes be let in with B-2 business entry.

If you try B-2 approach, the only way you will know is to go to border and find out. If it doesn't work, J status is your only other choice.