What if I have a job offer?

Hello! I am hoping someone can provide with some information.

I am a Canadian Citizen wanting to work in the States. I have a potential job offer from an American organization in California that I know quite well, however the only stumbling block appears to be the Visa.

I do NOT qualify for the TN visa. My background is in marketing/writing and communications and I have not yet completed my degree.

Is it possible for an employer to sponsor me? What if they are a small employer? Does that make it more difficult?

The only family I have residing in the US is distant-(Dad's cousin).

What are my options? What does my potential employer need to do? And why does it have to be so difficult for us northernly neighbours?

Hi Kelly and welcome to the site.

Take a look at the sticky Reba put up about wanting to move to the states --> http://www.canuckabroad.com/forums/so-y ... t2199.html There is lots of valuable information there.

Did the company who offered you the job not know you were not eligible to work/live inthe states when they made the offer? They apply for a visa for you, but I don't think its an cheap nor easy process (don't they need to show that this position oculd not be filled by someone who IS currently qualified to work in the US?)

As for it being hard for us "northern neighbours" we seem to have a much greater chance than most in getting to live and work in the states. It makes sense that countries would first hire their own citizens for jobs.

Anyway- good luck to you!

Thanks Lori. Yes, my potential employer is aware that I am Canadian.

I read what Reba had written, but I couldnt find anything specific about how employerss prove that the jobs cannot be filled by residents first. Also, I wonder how much it costs? I have heard various numbers quoted.

Ironically, I do agree with all these rules and hurdles. I think America most defintitley should protect their own workers. I just wish their was a smoother transition for canadians.

The information you'll need is likely at the TN Visa Expert website.

Thanks Reba.

But I am still confused whether or not I can 'sneak' in under the titles of one of the "real life" job titles, such as Office Manager. As mentioned previously, I do not qualify under any of the listed occupations.

Since you've posted your question and still have questions - our suggestion is you get legal advice so that you can clearly move forward or not. We are recommending the legal advice, because based on your education, experience and future job title you do not "neatly" fall into a visa category.

Trying to "sneak in" is not a great way to go, and getting rejected, can lead to a lot of problems - especially if you say something that causes concern for the immigration officer.

Contact a lawyer from the TN Visa Expert Lawyer Network. They offer a very affordable Phone Consultation so you can determine how to proceed. Currently priced at $65USD, it's a 20min call and you will be very clear on your best course of action of how to work in the U.S.

It'll cost you a lot more if you have immigration problems and that's not worth it.

Finally, let them know you found them from TN Visa Expert and provide us feedback of the service. This will keep us informed of the level of service being provided and if need be we can try to improve it.

Reba (moderator), please remove this post if you find it unjustified - my intention, like our mission, is to help Canadians easily and affordably live in the U.S.

Thanks.