So, you have the job, you have the TN visa, and now your employer wants to sponsor you for a Green Card. You have chosen Consular Processing to keep your travel options open. But how long does it actually take?
Unlike the H-1B path, the TN path has no “cap gap” protection, so timing your transition is critical to avoid a gap in employment authorization. Here is the realistic timeline for a Canadian professional in 2025.
Phase 1: The PERM Labor Certification (10–14 Months)
Action: Your employer tests the US labor market to prove no American worker can do your job.
Your Status: You are on your TN visa. Life is normal.
Travel: Safe.
Phase 2: The I-140 Petition (15 Days – 6 Months)
Action: Your employer proves they can pay you and that you qualify for the role.
Speed: Your employer can pay a “Premium Processing” fee ($2,805) to get a response in 15 business days. Without it, expect 6+ months.
Travel: generally safe, but carry proof of your employment.
Phase 3: The “Wait” for Priority Date (0 – 2 Years)
The Variable: This depends on the “Visa Bulletin.” If you are “Current,” you move instantly to the next step. If there is a backlog (common for EB-3), you wait.
The Danger Zone: If your TN expires during this wait, you must renew it. This requires careful legal drafting to explain why you still need a “temporary” visa while waiting for a “permanent” one.
Phase 4: The NVC & DS-260 (3–5 Months)
Action: Your date is current. You file the DS-260 form online and submit police certificates.
The “Lockdown”: Once you submit the DS-260, stop traveling. Your intent is now formally “immigrant.” Crossing the border on a TN becomes highly risky.
Phase 5: The Montreal Interview (1–3 Months Notice)
Action: You receive an interview letter for the US Consulate in Montreal.
The Trip: You fly to Canada, get your medical exam (Panel Physician), and attend the interview.
The Approval: Usually granted on the spot. Your passport is returned with a visa stamp in ~5-7 days.
Phase 6: Re-Entry
Action: You land at a US airport. You are admitted as a Permanent Resident. Your Green Card arrives in the mail weeks later.
Total Estimated Time: 1.5 to 3 years, depending on backlogs.
Why This Matters Because the TN visa is only valid for 3 years at a time, you will likely need one renewal during this process. Timing that renewal before you file the DS-260 is the “golden rule” of this strategy.
Next Step: Need to map out your specific dates? Contact Kulen Law Firm for a consultation to align your TN expiration with your Green Card timeline
