Skilled Canadian Immigration

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

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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

  1. 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.

  1. 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.