Vistor Visa vs TN Visa question

Hi all,

I have a few questions. I am a Computer Engineering graduate from Canada and want to work in the US. I know I can apply for a TN visa under engineering category if I have a job.

I was wondering if I need to have a job before I enter the US or can I enter the US as a visitor, look for a job, and apply for TN after getting an offer?

Also, would I have to go to the border to apply for the TN visa, or can I get one locally? (I plan on moving to California)

Any Class A POE can do TN-1, although generally it's better to use a POE at a Canadian land border or airport pre-clearance as they're more familiar with them.

You cannot legally enter the US to look for work. If you set up a job interview from Canada, you can enter the US as a B-1 visitor to attend that specific meeting.

Thanks for the fast reply. That's kinda a catch-22 eh? I cannot enter the united states to look for a job?

What if I am visiting my friend, and I get a job? When applying for a TN visa after that circumstance, would they ask how I got the job or is this entirely illegal and I shouldn't be asking?

It is not legal to be looking for a job while in the US under B1/B2 status.

Alright, thanks for the advice, that complicates things a bit. I'm off to apply online!