For healthcare executives navigating workforce shortages, hiring Canadian and Mexican registered nurses through the TN visa program remains an essential staffing strategy. While recent trade tensions and tariff policies from President Donald Trump have raised concerns about U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade relations, the TN visa remains fully intact under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
If you’ve been wondering whether your hospital or healthcare facility can still leverage the TN visa to recruit Canadian and Mexican nurses, the answer is yes—and here’s everything you need to know.
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The TN Visa Is Still Valid Under USMCA
The TN visa, originally created under NAFTA and carried forward under the USMCA, continues to allow Canadian and Mexican professionals—including registered nurses—to work in the United States without needing employer-sponsored work visas like the H-1B.
Despite recent economic policies, no changes have been made to the TN visa process or eligibility requirements. Canadian and Mexican nurses can still apply, renew, and work under this visa with the same privileges as before.
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Recent Trade Policies Do NOT Affect the TN Visa
In March 2025, the Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada, citing concerns over border security and trade imbalances. While these tariffs impact the cost of goods and supply chains, they do not change the USMCA agreement’s provisions related to workforce mobility.
What does this mean for healthcare executives?
- TN visa processing times and fees remain unchanged
- No new restrictions on Mexican or Canadian RNs seeking employment in the U.S.
- Hospitals can continue using TN visas as a staffing solution for critical nurse shortages
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Why Hospitals Should Continue Hiring TN Visa Nurses
Even amid political and economic shifts, the healthcare industry must focus on long-term workforce planning. The TN visa remains one of the most effective, low-cost solutions for hospitals looking to fill nursing shortages without the complexities of H-1B or other visa programs.
Here’s why hiring Canadian and Mexican nurses via TN visas is still a smart move in 2025:
- Cost-Effective Staffing Solution: No costly recruitment agency fees or H-1B lottery concerns.
- Highly Qualified Talent: Canadian and Mexican RNs meet the same standards as U.S. nurses.
- Quick Hiring Process: Canadian nurses can get TN status at the border within days, while Mexican nurses can secure TN visas within weeks.
- Long-Term Retention: Unlike travel nurses, TN visa holders commit to long-term employment, reducing turnover.
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What Healthcare Executives Need to Know About Compliance
Despite no major changes to TN visa rules, hospitals must still follow best practices when hiring international nurses:
- Ensure the role meets TN visa requirements: Registered nurses are a designated TN occupation, but positions requiring advanced degrees (such as Nurse Practitioners) may need alternative visa options.
- Maintain proper documentation: Offer letters must clearly state employment terms, salary, and job duties to avoid visa denials. IntelliStaff Medical are experts in providing offer letters for immigration officers.
- Consider the Green Card Pathway: Hospitals that offer permanent residency sponsorship (EB-3 green cards) to TN visa nurses can boost retention and create a long-term staffing pipeline. This can ensure a nurse stays with a hospital for 3–5 years while the permanent residency is processing.
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Final Thoughts: TN Visa Hiring Is Still a Smart Move
Despite trade tensions and shifting economic policies, the TN visa remains a strong, viable option for hospitals looking to hire Canadian and Mexican nurses in 2025.
The bottom line:
- No changes have been made to the TN visa process under USMCA
- Tariffs on goods do not impact nurse recruitment
- Hospitals should continue leveraging TN visas to fill workforce gaps efficiently
Need Help Hiring TN Visa Nurses?
If your hospital is looking to recruit Canadian or Mexican registered nurses, we can help! IntelliStaff Medical specializes in connecting hospitals with highly qualified international RNs who are ready to join your team.
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