TN without education

G

Gary I.

New Member
I am a Canadian citizen with a job offer from a company in the US.

It's primarily a telecommuting position.

However, they want me to go for 3 months of paid training in the US.

It's a relatively new field; I have expertise that the company wants in health care information technology.

Specifically, I would be managing testing for their clients to get certification.

I know Scientific Technologist may be an option, however, it's in computer science (not in agriculture, biology, etc).

My questions are:

1. Do I have an option other than TN for paid training?

2. I would prefer to have a Visa. I would be able to feel comfortable that I work on site in the US if the company's need arises. In this case, do I have any options for getting a work visa without education in the field?

Thanks,
Gary
 
To be more specific.

My job title is Interoperability Technologist.

Working under a computer engineer.

I have specific knowledge for which there's a shortage in the US.

I have to run tests on software products so our clients can be certified by the US government.

I'm not a programmer. Instead it's a type of testing lab.

However, I don't have a degree related specifically to the field.

Thanks.
 
You can likley go on B1 visa for training. Otherwise, while working in canada you don't need anything.

TN is not dependent on talent shortage so that doesn't matter. In any event, you won't need TN.
 
Thanks.

The B1 states that I must be performing services for non-U.S. employer.

But my employer is in the US.

They will be paying me while I go to their site for initial training.

After this 3 month period I can work from Canada, and they will continue to pay me.

I have heard that if they pay me as a company, i.e. I set up a company, then I'm being paid by a Canadian company.

I find this leaves too much for US customs to interpret. I would like to avoid having 1 customs agent saying everything is ok. Then on my next visit getting an agent who interprets that I'm inadmissible.

Or, is there just no way to avoid this kind of situation?

Thanks.
 
Sales people -- in eligible for TN -- go for initial training with US companies all the time.
Since you will be working in canada, the firm is obligated to put you on a Cdn payroll (Cdn tax, CPP, EI), so maybe that is where the shortcoming is. If you are an employee THEY need to set up the arrangement, otherwise, become a contractor as you say (but ask for more moeny in lieu of benefits)
 
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