Initiating a TN Request

You must complete several steps before submitting a TN request. Careful preparation will help avoid delays and ensure your case can move forward without issues.

You should begin this process as early as possible before the intended start date.

Step 1: Confirm Employee Record

Before starting the request, you must:

• Confirm the employee has a Stony Brook ID (Empl ID)
• Ensure their date of birth, email, and citizenship are correct in PeopleSoft

If a new ID has been created, wait 24 hours before proceeding to allow system updates to complete.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

You must gather and upload the required documents in PDF format, including:

• Letter of Offer or Employment Contract
• Detailed description of job duties (such as a personnel requisition)

Incomplete or incorrect documents will delay processing.

Step 3: Submit the Request in accessVIS

You must submit an Immigration Counsel Referral Request in accessVIS.

Once submitted:

• The Dean (or equivalent) will receive a request to approve the case
• This approval confirms your department agrees to comply with TN requirements
• VIS cannot proceed without this approval
  
  

Step 4: Employee Completes Their Portion

After submission, the employee will be asked to:

• Log into accessVIS
• Provide personal and immigration information

Delays at this stage will delay the overall process.

Step 5: Compliance and Export Control Review

VIS will coordinate required compliance checks, including:

• Export control screening through the Office of Research Compliance
• Verification that the employee and their affiliations are not restricted under U.S. law

This step must be completed before the case can proceed.

Step 6: VIS Review and Referral

Once all materials are submitted:

• VIS will complete a preliminary review (typically 5–7 business days)
• If complete, the case will be referred to immigration counsel
• The employee will then receive next steps directly from the law firm
  
  

Important Reminders

• TN eligibility depends on the specific job duties and profession, not just the job title
• TN is a temporary status and not appropriate for all roles
• Border and consular officers have discretion in adjudicating TN applications

Early preparation and clear documentation are key to a smooth process.