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Alert

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026. While Â鶹´«Ã½ analyzes this complex rule, we are working to update our website and communicate guidance as quickly as possible. Members of the Â鶹´«Ã½ international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.

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TN Extension

TN status can be renewed for an indefinite period (in up to 3 year increments) as long as the original terms of employment still exist. 

Once OISS files an extension and gets a receipt notice, the beneficiary is eligible to continue employment without a gap.

Ways to Extend TN Status

There are two ways to extend TN status:

1. Travel to Canada/Mexico and re-enter again in TN status (recommended option).

A TN employee can be extend his or her status by departing and re-entering the U.S. This will include submitting a TN Visa Request Form and an employment letter to the International Office. Read more about the requirements for this letter.

2.  Apply for a TN extension within the U.S.

Applying for a TN extension within the U.S. requires 3-4 months for USCIS approval.  All requests must be made to OISS four months prior to the current expiration date of the TN.

Please follow these steps: 

  1. The TN employee should initiate this process with the Host Department
  2. Host Department should email the OISS advisor with all of the documents required for the initial TN request
  3. Host Department must also submit appropriate petition fee for Form I-129
  4. OISS will review for accuracy and completeness. If complete, OISS will file form I-129 with USCIS.
  5. OISS will receive receipt notice and forward it to the department.
  6. OISS will receive the Approval Notice from USCIS once processed. Note: processing time varies, but it usually takes three months.
  7. OISS will notify the beneficiary, the host department, and payroll.

Extending Dependent Status

  • If the principal TN seeks readmission through travel outside the U.S., then the TD must accompany the principal to gain status.
  • To maintain status in the U.S., the TD must file for an extension with the principal TN by filing form I-539 along with the Form I-129 petition.