USCIS is Now Accepting TN Visa Applications From Canadians Currently Outside the U.S.

BUFFALO, NY, October 11, 2012 (Press-News.org) As of October 1, 2012, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services began accepting new applications from Canadian citizens for TN status from outside the United States by mail. Traditionally, USCIS only accepted applications for changes of status and renewals by mail. New applications from Canadians outside the U.S. seeking TN status had the singular option of submitting their application for TN status in person at a U.S. port of entry. This new direct filing option allows Canadian professionals and their employers' the additional option of filing directly with USCIS from outside the United States to obtain TN status.

According to Jeremy Richards of Jeremy L. Richards Immigration Law, there are several advantages and disadvantages to submitting a TN application by mail.

One advantage of applying via mail is you don't have to do the Customs and Border Protection interview, which is often among the most intimidating factors associated with the TN visa application process.

Mr. Richards notes that one big disadvantage however is the cost. While the processing fee at a U.S. port of entry is only $56, applying through Form I-129 requires a filing fee of $325.

Another disadvantage is time. An individual applying at a U.S. port of entry will receive an immediate answer on the acceptance or denial of their application. This allows a person to obtain TN status on very short notice. Applying by mail, however, will take a much longer period of time. A TN application submitted via mail can take two months or more to process. If time is of the essence, Mr. Richards suggest taking the traditional port of entry application route.

Of course, an option is made available for those who wish to file by mail yet still receive an immediate decision. Premium processing, which guarantees a decision within 15 days upon receipt of the application, will cost an applicant $1,225.

Mr. Richards believes that this latest method of applying for TN status will open up new doors for Canadian professionals and their employers. Of course, he states that it is still best to consult with an experienced U.S. Immigration lawyer before proceeding with a TN Visa application.

Jeremy L. Richards Immigration Law is a small yet established law firm based in Buffalo, New York dedicated to practicing U.S. nationality and immigration laws. Owner and attorney at law Jeremy L. Richards has helped people from all over Canada successfully obtain a US Work Visa. For more information, call (716) 832-2222 or visit our at http://www.tnvisalawyer.net.