⚠️ Consulate Visa Stamping Mandatory: Unlike Canadian citizens (who are visa-exempt and can apply directly at a U.S. port of entry), Mexican citizens **must** apply for and obtain a physical TN visa stamp at a U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling to the U.S. border.
USMCA Profession Selector
Select your target USMCA profession to check consulate credential requirements:
Requirement Details:
🎓 Credential: Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or State/Provincial License.
📜 Cédula Profesional: Yes — Original Título or Cédula Profesional required at the consulate interview.
Cédula Profesional & Título Rules
USCIS and U.S. consulates enforce strict rules regarding educational proof for Mexican nationals:
- Título & Cédula Profesional: You must present either your original *Título* (university diploma) or your *Cédula Profesional* (issued by SEP or a recognized state government).
- Carta de Pasante is NOT accepted: A *Carta de Pasante* verifies only completion of course hours, not graduation or degree completion. Applications using this will be denied.
- Academic Evaluations: If your degree was completed outside Mexico, U.S., or Canada, you must obtain a certified foreign credential evaluation.
Application Workflow
| Phase | Required Forms & Actions | Consular Interview Documents |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Pre-filing | Complete online Form DS-160 and pay the $185 visa fee. | Confirmation page of DS-160 and fee receipt. |
| 2. ASC Appointment | Schedule biometrics, photo, and fingerprinting at the Applicant Service Center (ASC). | Valid passport and ASC appointment letter. |
| 3. Consulate Interview | Attend visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. | Employer support letter, original Título/Cédula, and passport. |
Visa Dependents
TD Visa (Spouse & Kids): Spouses and minor children receive TD status. They are allowed to study in the U.S. but are not authorized to work under this status.
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