Employees in Other Visa Statuses

TN status is available only to eligible Canadian and Mexican citizens working in qualifying professional occupations under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Before requesting TN sponsorship, departments should:

• Confirm that the position qualifies for TN status.
• Ensure the position aligns with a recognized TN profession.
• Ensure the role is temporary in nature and does not imply permanent intent.
• Contact OISS to review eligibility and discuss the appropriate strategy.

Departments are responsible for providing:

• TN support letter.
• Departments must use the TN Host Department Letter Template.
• Position description.
• Appointment details (title, salary, dates).
• Any required professional licensure documentation (if applicable).

OISS will review the documentation before the employee applies.

Processing:

Processing differs based on the employee’s citizenship.

• Canadian citizens generally apply directly at a U.S. port of entry or a pre-flight inspection location.
• Mexican citizens must obtain a TN visa before entering the U.S.

Departments should work with OISS throughout the process.

O-1 status is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability or achievement in their field.

O-1 petitions are filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Because O-1 petitions are complex, MSU works with approved outside immigration counsel to prepare and file O-1 petitions.

Before requesting O-1 sponsorship, departments should:

• Contact OISS to review eligibility and discuss the appropriate strategy.
• Work with the attorney assigned through MSU’s university’s approved process.
• Provide documentation requested by OISS and immigration counsel.

Dr. Teresa Mastin, Vice Provost & Associate Vice President for Faculty and Academic Staff Affairs, is the only university official authorized to sign immigration documents on behalf of MSU.

E-3 status is available only to Australian citizens employed in qualifying specialty occupations.

Before requesting E-3 sponsorship, departments should:

• Confirm the employee is an Australian citizen.
• Confirm the position qualifies as a specialty occupation.
• Contact OISS before proceeding.

OISS assists departments by:

• Determining the prevailing wage.
• Preparing and filing the Labor Condition Application (LCA).
• Coordinating the sponsorship process.
• Advising on next steps for the department and employee.