U.S. Visa Stamping in Canada & Mexico (TCN)

The New TCN Stamping Restrictions

For years, foreign professionals working in the U.S. (on H-1B, L-1, O-1, or TN visas) frequently traveled to U.S. Consulates in border cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Tijuana, or Monterrey to get their new physical visa stamps. This process is known as **Third Country National (TCN)** visa processing.

**Important Policy Update:** Consular posts in Canada and Mexico have **significantly restricted TCN processing**. U.S. Embassies and Consulates in border countries no longer accept visa stamp applications from individuals who do not reside in Canada or Mexico, unless they fall under extremely narrow, pre-approved exceptions. The U.S. Department of State expects general applicants to return to their home country (country of nationality or permanent residence) for visa renewals.

The Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR) Voiding Rule

Under federal law **(22 CFR 41.112(d))**, a foreign national with an expired U.S. visa can travel to Canada or Mexico for **less than 30 days** and re-enter the U.S. legally using their valid Form I-94. This privilege is called **Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR)**.

Section 221(g) Administrative Processing Risks

If a consular officer issues a **Section 221(g) blue, yellow, or pink sheet**, your application is placed on a temporary administrative hold. This is not a formal visa refusal; it means the consulate requires background security checks, client-site verifications, or additional documentation (like tax returns or end-client agreements).

Because you applied in a third country (like Canada or Mexico) where you do not reside, a 221(g) delay creates extreme hardship:

Document Checklist for Border Stamping

If you have a pre-approved exception or qualify to apply as a resident of Canada or Mexico, you must bring: