Work Permit for Husband

[Justinw]

My wife and I are considering moving to the U.S. We are born Canadian citizens. Based on agencies we contacted, she has all the credentials to work in the U.S. Now she can get a TN visa to work there. However if she does that all I can get is a TD visa. This is a problem because I will be unable to work. However if she gets her TN visa and then 6 months in the company applies for her green card. When Will I the spouse get a work permit? If so how long will it take?

Regards,
Justin

[bzuccaro]

As a Canadian citizen, you may also be able to obtain TN status. If you do not qualify under one of the TN categories, and need to wait until your wife can obtain her green card then you depending upon all the facts, the wait may be up to five years before she can seek adjustment of status and you can obtain work authorization.

You will most likely have to rely on obtaining your own work authorization independent of your wife if you wish to work in the U.S. in the immediate future. You should consider the TN - there are a couple categories that do not require a degree.

Alternatively, if your wife is working for a Canadian company that has a U.S. presence she can look into the L-1 employee transfer category. This would be especially beneficial for you if you cannot qualify for a TN, because the L-2 (the spouse of the L-1) can receive employment authorization.

Best of luck.