If you’re a Canadian or Mexican professional looking to work in the United States—or a U.S. employer planning to hire one, it’s important to know exactly how much a TN visa costs in 2025. While the TN visa remains one of the fastest and most affordable work visa options, the fees can add up quickly if you’re not prepared.
This blog breaks down the cost of a TN visa from every angle: applicant expenses, employer obligations, legal representation, and even hidden or unexpected charges. Whether you’re planning for your own application or handling it for your company, this guide will help you plan your budget and avoid surprises.
What Is a TN Visa and Who Needs It?
A TN visa is a non-immigrant work visa created under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA); formerly known as NAFTA. It allows eligible Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the U.S. in pre-approved professional roles like engineers, scientists, accountants, teachers, and more.
Unlike H-1B or other work visas, the TN visa doesn’t require employer sponsorship in the traditional sense, and the process is generally quicker and cheaper. But that doesn’t mean it’s free, or simple.
How Much Does a TN Visa Cost in 2025? A Full Breakdown for Applicants
So, how much does a TN visa cost in total?
The cost of a TN visa in 2025 varies based on several factors, including how and where you apply (whether at a U.S. port of entry or from within the country), and whether you choose to work with an immigration lawyer. Depending on your situation, the total TN visa cost can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you understand exactly what to expect.
1. Government Fees for Applicants
- Canadians applying at the port of entry:
You’ll pay around $50 to $56 for processing at the border. - Mexican citizens applying through a U.S. consulate:
You’ll need to fill out a DS-160 and pay a non-refundable $185 visa application fee. - Applying from inside the U.S. (Change of Status):
Filing Form I-129 costs $530.
Additional potential fees:
- I-94 issuance fee (at border): Around $6.
- SEVIS fee (if applicable for certain dependents or transitions): Around $220, though most TN visas don’t require this.
2. Document Preparation & Travel Costs
- Credential evaluation, certified transcripts, and professional translations may cost anywhere from $100 to $400.
- Travel for visa stamping, port-of-entry interviews, or consular appointments also adds to the bill.
Estimated total cost for applicants:
$250 – $800 (without a lawyer), potentially more if complex documentation is involved.
TN Visa Lawyer Cost: Is It Worth It?
The TN visa lawyer cost largely depends on the complexity of your case and whether you’re applying on your own or with the support of your employer. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $750 to $3,500 in legal fees for services such as:
- Reviewing your job offer and credentials
- Drafting your employer support letter
- Preparing you for the port-of-entry process or interview
- Ensuring that your occupation qualifies under TN guidelines
While you can apply for a TN visa on your own, hiring a lawyer can significantly reduce the risk of denial, especially if your job title doesn’t clearly match one of the approved TN professions. Many immigration lawyers offer flat-rate pricing for TN visa cases rather than hourly billing, so it’s important to clarify what’s included in the fee before moving forward.
TN Visa Cost for Employers in 2025
If you’re an employer wondering how much a TN visa costs an employer, the answer may surprise you, in a good way.
Here’s what employers typically cover:
- Internal HR time or legal review: Not mandated by law but often part of onboarding.
- Attorney fees: Some employers choose to pay the legal fees (usually $750 – $2,500) on behalf of the employee.
- Document support: Crafting and reviewing the TN employer letter (critical to approval).
The good news?
There is no formal “TN visa sponsorship cost” or filing fee for employers. Unlike H-1B visas, TNs don’t require a petitioning process through USCIS—unless the employee is applying from within the U.S.
Estimated cost to employer (if they cover everything):
$750 – $3,000, depending on whether legal help is included.
Are There Hidden or Additional Costs?
Yes, and they’re often overlooked.
Here’s what to consider:
- Cost of visa denial: If your application is incomplete or rejected, you may lose your fees and need to reapply.
- Premium processing (optional): Not generally needed for TN visas, but if filed through USCIS Form I-129, you can opt to pay $2,805 for 15-day processing.
- Dependents (TD visa fees): If you’re bringing your spouse or children, you’ll need to account for additional DS-160 application fees and travel costs.
- Renewal and extension fees: These follow a similar cost structure and should be planned annually or biennially.
TN Visa Cost Comparison Chart: Applicant vs Employer
| Fee Type | Applicant | Employer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government filing fees | ✅ | ❌ | Applicant pays at border or USCIS |
| Legal/attorney fees | ✅ / ❌ | ✅ / ❌ | Varies by arrangement |
| Employers may assist | ✅ | ✅ / ❌ | Employers may assist |
| Premium Processing (opt.) | ✅ | ✅ / ❌ | Only for I-129 applicants |
| HR/Admin costs | ❌ | ✅ | Internal cost, not official fee |
FAQs About TN Visa Costs (Based on Real Searches)
1. How much does a TN visa cost?
The cost of a TN visa typically ranges from $250 to $800 for applicants, depending on where and how you apply. Legal fees, if used, are extra.
2. How much does a TN visa cost an employer?
There’s no mandatory government fee for employers, but if legal help or document support is provided, employers may spend $750 to $3,000.
3. How much does it cost to get a TN visa with a lawyer?
If you hire a lawyer, the total cost may increase to $1,000 to $4,000, depending on legal complexity and documentation.
4. How much does it cost to sponsor a TN visa?
Unlike other visas, the TN doesn’t require formal sponsorship or costly petitions. However, sponsoring in terms of legal and document support may cost employers a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
5. How much does a TN visa cost with premium processing?
Premium processing is optional and costs $2,805 (as of 2025) if applying through USCIS Form I-129 for a change of status.
Final Thoughts: Budgeting Smartly for the TN Visa in 2025
The TN visa remains one of the most cost-effective options for Canadian and Mexican professionals to work in the U.S., but it still comes with financial responsibilities. Whether you’re an applicant or an employer, understanding the TN visa cost in 2025 helps you plan ahead, avoid unnecessary delays, and make smarter decisions.
- Applicants should budget for application fees, legal assistance (if needed), and travel costs.
- Employers should be prepared for potential legal and document preparation expenses.
- Both should stay informed to avoid hidden fees and ensure compliance.
Getting the right guidance early can save you time, money, and stress throughout your TN visa process. So, if you need help navigating your TN visa journey in 2025, whether you’re applying on your own or hiring international talent, ImmigrationQuestion.com connects you with licensed immigration attorneys who can guide you through the process. You can ask your questions, get fast and reliable answers, and in many cases, even access free consultations.
Don’t leave your visa approval to chance, visit ImmigrationQuestion.com today and get the clarity you deserve.
