Bill Proposal: Pathway to Citizenship for Canadian Nationals on TN Visas Under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)
Purpose:
To establish a pathway to citizenship for Canadian nationals currently residing in the United States under a TN (Trade USMCA) Visa, recognizing their valuable contributions to the U.S. workforce and economy while ensuring an efficient and secure process.
Section 1: Findings and Purpose
- Necessity for Skilled Immigrants:
The United States benefits from skilled individuals who contribute to economic growth, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing that require specialized knowledge and experience.
- Exceptional Skills of Canadian TN Visa Holders:
Canadian nationals holding TN visas under the USMCA agreement bring specific expertise that enhances the collective skills of the U.S. workforce.
- Fraud Prevention Safeguard:
This pathway to citizenship is restricted to Canadian nationals who are TN visa holders and can provide verifiable proof of Canadian birth, minimizing risks of fraud.
Section 2: Eligibility for Citizenship Pathway
- Eligible Candidates:
• Canadian nationals who:
• Hold a valid TN visa under the USMCA at the time of enactment or obtain one after enactment.
• Provide verifiable proof of birth in Canada.
- Residency Requirement:
• Candidates must have maintained lawful status in the United States under a TN visa for a minimum of one year before applying for permanent residency.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship:
• After the one-year residency requirement, eligible candidates may apply for permanent residency, leading to citizenship eligibility within an additional year.
• The entire process, from the start of permanent residency application to potential naturalization, shall take no longer than two years.
Section 3: Implementation and Oversight
- Departmental Coordination:
• The Department of Homeland Security, in cooperation with the Department of State, will create streamlined procedures and oversight measures for eligible TN visa holders seeking permanent residency and citizenship.
- Reporting Requirements:
• An annual report will be submitted to Congress, detailing program applications, approvals, and denials, to maintain transparency and facilitate ongoing evaluation.
Section 4: Effective Date
This Act shall take effect immediately upon enactment, with regulations implemented within 180 days.
Conclusion:
This bill aims to recognize and incorporate the talents of Canadian TN visa holders by providing an efficient, secure two-year pathway to citizenship, strengthening the U.S. workforce and economy while minimizing fraud risks.