Head-to-head comparison
TN Visa vs H-1B: Which Should You Choose?
For Canadian and Mexican professionals, the TN is the fast lane: same-day adjudication at the border, no lottery, unlimited renewals. The H-1B is slower and capped — but it is a dual-intent visa that leads somewhere the TN cannot.
| TN Visa TN Status (USMCA) | H-1B H-1B Specialty Occupation | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | 🇺🇸 United States | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Leads to PR | No — temporary status | No — temporary status |
| Government fees | ~$160 | ~$730 |
| Typical timeline | 1–2 months | 3–6 months |
| Mandatory requirements | 3 | 3 |
| In depth | RequirementsCostsTimeline | RequirementsCostsTimeline |
Choose the TN Visa if…
- You are a Canadian or Mexican citizen in one of the ~60 USMCA professions
- You need to start quickly — TN can be granted at a port of entry in hours
- You are not (yet) pursuing a green card
Choose the H-1B if…
- You intend to apply for permanent residence — TN is single-intent and a green card filing puts renewals at risk
- Your occupation is not on the USMCA list (e.g., most management roles)
- You are neither Canadian nor Mexican
Our verdict
Start on TN for speed, but the moment a green card becomes the plan, switch strategy — most TN holders move to H-1B (lottery) or marry the TN with an EB filing timed carefully with counsel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the TN Visa and the H-1B?
For Canadian and Mexican professionals, the TN is the fast lane: same-day adjudication at the border, no lottery, unlimited renewals. The H-1B is slower and capped — but it is a dual-intent visa that leads somewhere the TN cannot.
Which is cheaper: TN Visa or H-1B?
Government filing fees are approximately $160 for the TN Status (USMCA) and $730 for the H-1B Specialty Occupation. Supporting costs (tests, translations, medicals, optional legal help) apply to both.
Which is faster: TN Visa or H-1B?
The TN Status (USMCA) typically takes 1–2 months; the H-1B Specialty Occupation typically takes 3–6 months. Individual timelines vary with caseload and completeness of evidence.
Should I choose the TN Visa or the H-1B?
Start on TN for speed, but the moment a green card becomes the plan, switch strategy — most TN holders move to H-1B (lottery) or marry the TN with an EB filing timed carefully with counsel.