From F-1 OPT to TN visa

G

godppgo

Registered Users (C)
Hello

I am thinking about applying for my first TN visa at the end of this month and I have a few questions.

I have been attending school in California on F-1 student visa for almost 4 years (graduation Aug 2009). I have been working for 7 months full time as a process engineer under OPT (optional practical training). My OPT will expire in mid-June of this year. I am thinking about applying for TN Visa in order to continue with my current job before OPT time runs out.

My questions are:

1. Will my previous 4 years of stay in the U.S. as a F-1 student and currently working under OPT be any concern when I apply for TN?

2. If I get rejected for a TN, can I still re-enter the U.S. under F-1 status?

I am planning to apply under the category "Engineer". I have a Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from a Canadian university.

Thanks!:)
 
1. No.
2. Yes, as long as you have OPT time remaining, and as long as you aren't found inadmissable (ie. for crimial offense, etc).
 
I have a couple more questions....

It looks like I have the option to file for a change of status from F-1 status to TN status rather than having to have to go the boarder to apply for a TN. Is there any disadvantages for filing for a change of status comparing to going to the boarder to apply for a TN?

I have been on F-1 status since 2005 and I've been driving with British Columbia driver's license and BC-registered/insured vehicle during this 4 years. Will this be a concern when I apply for a TN? I know I am suppose to get a California license plate as soon as I move here...

Thanks!
 
As a 'studen' you were technically a resident of BC, although unless you had residence there, your plates, registration, and especuilly your insurance were probably invalid.

Now that you are working, you should be importing your car and registering it in cali, and getting local insurance.

If you have an accident now, you could see yourself not covered.
 
I've successfully obtained a 3-yr TN status at the boarder. It was a rather quick and painless experience. The interview with the CBP officer was less than 10min. He only asked about my education background and my company/job description. Nothing else was asked.

Thanks nelsona for your advice.
 
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