When can I enter US under TN Status?

I will be starting a position on July 31st but need to head down early so that I can find an apartment etc. I have booked a flight for July 3rd. Will I be able to obtain my TN Status at this time?

I am very nervous about this process- any help would be GREATLY appreciated!

Also, I have booked my return flight for November (coming in for visit) will this impact on my ability to prove intent to return to Canada?

from what i've read, you only get the TN approx 3 wks before job starts and that's at some borders.others let you enter only a few days ahead of job start.

i'm not positive about the "intent" but i dont think a return flight is "intent" to return to canada

AFAIK you can't get your TN visa until you are leaving Canada for the "last" time. That is the way it was for me, for my first TN.

Returning to Canada for a visit doesn't count. They don't worry about that -- but make sure you get your TN I-94 stamped "MULTIPLE ENTRY" or when you return to Canada the departing airline may take it (they are supposed to take I-94s but they don't usually bother). And make sure they don't take it -- one airline tried to take mine once even though it was stamped multiple entry. It was a big argument I eventually lost, but fortunately I was getting a new TN on my return anyway.

Your intent to return to Canada is best proven by keeping property there, or at least an address where you stay when you are there (e.g. your parents). Unfortunately keeping property in Canada jeopardizes your non-resident status, which means you will have to pay Canadian taxes after paying US taxes.

Some ports allow you to get the TN 30 days before you start the job. As far I'm aware the only two which allow this are Peace Bridge/Buffalo and Alexandria Bay/NY.

Ok ,

a 30 day in advance looks like a risky move.
How about 2 wks ? 1 wk?
Anyone has experience crossing the border other than 2~3 days in before the start date?

Yes I have gone well before my start date and received a TN, I have also gone across, received my TN then turned around and went back to Canada. I have run into problems in the past where it would take longer then it should and missed my flight. So now I make sure I get my TN before I make any travel arrangements.

Two friends did it 2 weeks before their start date last year (they are unrelated each others).

I was also thinking to do that, at Derby Line, and I might end-up visiting one of my friend in Boston. My job related move will happen later at Montreal Airport. That's why I would like to get the TN before.

Anyone know will Pearson Toronto Or Vancouver International Airport allowed a 2 wks TN application prior to start date?

Does the officer grant your expiration date on the day you cross border or stamped whatever being anticipated on your offer letter ?

None of the airports will allow this since you need an airline ticket just to get into pre-clearance. The ticket needs to be for that day.

Chris,

When I said in advance at the airport, I mean flying down to the state two weeks before start date and as well apply it at the pre-clearance.

K