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Ask HN: Working in the USA as a young Canadian, no degree

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Re: Ask HN: Working in the USA as a young Canadian, no degree

#13
post #4

Earlier quoted context omitted.

TN Qualifications [1] - the profession is recognized under NAFTA; and - the alien possesses the specific criteria for that profession [2]; and - the prospective position requires someone in that professional capacity; and - the alien is going to work for a U.S. employer. [1] http://canada.usembassy.gov/visas/doing-business-in-america/... [2] http://canada.usembassy.gov/visas/doing-business-in-america/... Perfect. I h…

I suggest you first consult with a US immigration attorney for these sorts of questions. The internet is full of bad advice. Work visas generally have an emphasis on being a skilled professional (i.e: education and/or many years of experience). FYI - TN status is granted when you cross the border, entirely at the border official's discretion.

As of October 2012 you can now apply for TN status in advance by mail.

Re: Ask HN: Working in the USA as a young Canadian, no degree

#14
If you manage to get $100k in funding (from a VC, sales, crowdfunding, whatever), and you own 50%+ of the company, you can get an E2 visa to temporarily operate in the US. Wait times for the required interview are about 5 months & the amount of paperwork means you'll need a lawyer. IIRC its valid for 2 years but you can extend it. The emphasis is on bringing jobs to the US.

Re: Ask HN: Working in the USA as a young Canadian, no degree

#15
post #4
post #2

Best bet would be looking to the TN Visa (which engineers/developers are eligible for) which is probably the most painless solution. I don't think a degree is nessecary although it would be best to check on the us immigration site. If you can't get a TN Visa, your best bet would be a HB-1 or a greencard. - both if which are hard to get and require a US sponsor. For HB1 I've heard the for companies under 5 yesrd in ag…

TN Qualifications [1] - the profession is recognized under NAFTA; and - the alien possesses the specific criteria for that profession [2]; and - the prospective position requires someone in that professional capacity; and - the alien is going to work for a U.S. employer. [1] http://canada.usembassy.gov/visas/doing-business-in-america/... [2] http://canada.usembassy.gov/visas/doing-business-in-america/... Perfect. I h…

I think if you show that you have considerable experience in the field and your past jobs held had the position as developer then it should make it easier, although don't quote me on this.
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