USDOS Issues Final Rule Updating NAFTA with USMCA; Visa Classifications Remain Unchanged

USDOS Issues Final Rule Updating NAFTA with USMCA; Visa Classifications Remain Unchanged

On November 5, 2021, the U.S. Department of State announced a final rule that replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with the United States Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), effective December 6, 2021.

This rule clarifies that only a minor change in the visa classification. While the status notation will remain the same, descriptor will be updated to reflect the new agreement. Therefore, “TN” for the primary visa holder will remain the same but now reflect “TN USMCA Professional”, and the dependent status (for spouse or child of a TN) will remain “TD” to reflect “TD Spouse or Child of a USMCA Professional”.

Individuals currently in TN or TD status will not face a change in visa status with this rule.

The new rule published in the Federal Register can be viewed here.