Read the general eligibility basics overview
Spouses can have different citizenships and Canadian statuses. A household plan should use each adult’s actual documents rather than assuming both have the same U.S. route because they live together in Canada.
Identify the actual nationality of each person
Hypothetical example: one spouse is a Canadian citizen and the other a Canadian permanent resident with a different citizenship. TN requires eligible Canadian or Mexican citizenship; permanent residence alone does not establish it. One spouse’s citizenship does not transfer to the other.
Distinguish principal and derivative possibilities
An independent principal case requires the individual’s relevant conditions. L-1 involves qualifying organizations, foreign employment and a qualifying role; E-2 involves treaty nationality and a qualifying investment and enterprise. A derivative relationship is a different basis and should be assessed using the actual relationship and status.
Review each person’s process and intended work
Visa and admission requirements can differ by citizenship and classification. TD does not authorize employment; qualifying E and L spouses may be employment-authorized incident to status with appropriate documentation. Confirm actual individual requirements rather than using one adult’s travel process for everyone.
What else is on your mind?
Does Canadian permanent residence give me access to TN?Is a matching job title enough for TN?Can years of experience replace a degree for TN?Can my own U.S. company employ me under TN?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.