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MACKENZIE · ELIGIBILITY BASICS

Use current citizenship evidence rather than an expected naturalization date

USAvisa field guide · 2 minute readReviewed 7 September 2026
THE SHORT ANSWER

A Canadian permanent resident planning a US opportunity should distinguish citizenship already held from citizenship hoped for later. A Prince George address or PR card does not establish TN nationality. The correct starting point is the person’s actual documents and the proposed activity.

01

Identify the nationality-dependent routes

TN requires eligible Canadian or Mexican citizenship. E-2 involves relevant treaty nationality and ownership of the enterprise. If naturalization is pending, record its status honestly rather than presenting a predicted completion as an existing qualification.

02

Review other requirements independently

L-1 requires a qualifying transfer relationship, employment period and role. Investor immigrant routes require their own capital or gift framework and eligibility analysis. A nationality limitation in one category does not prove that another is suitable.

03

Keep family and Canadian obligations visible

Each family member may have different citizenship and status. Review Canadian residence and tax consequences with appropriate advice alongside the US plan. A pending US request does not suspend unrelated obligations or grant the household US work permission.

SOURCE NOTES

Editorial source review: 2026-09-08. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.

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