Looking for a job during 6-month visitor stay?

[greenpickles 0]

Hi everyone.

My girlfriend and I are both Canadian citizens. She recently landed a job in New York and will be obtaining a TN visa. I really want to move with her, and I think the best way is to simply find a job there. I have my bachelor's degree and can work a few jobs under the NAFTA list. I was just wondering if it's OK to look for a job while on the 6-month visitor stay, and if anyone has done so before? How open are firms to hiring Canadians? From my research, it seems that with the TN visa, the firm doesn't actually have to pay or file much paperwork, the onus would be on me instead?

Thanks for any help.

[Mike-eeh and Odie 193]

It's illegal to work in the USA while on a visitor's visa. It can get you banned. Do it the right way and obtain a work visa.

[JohnR! 5,495]

My suggestion is that instead of coming over and start looking for a job, do your networking first, get some opportunities lined up, send you resume, do the Skype interviews and then come stateside for a face-to-face interview if you find anyone interested in hiring you. Many companies will not give you face time unless they are interested in making you an offer.

[Teddy B 17,252]

It is perfectly legal to look for work while on a visitor visa. It's not legal to actually accept a job and start working until you have the proper visa.

Edited May 22, 2014 by Teddy B