TN Visa Border vs I-129

[Rose88 4]

I've been working in the US with a TN visa (medical/allied health) for several years (renewed every 3 years). Ran into an interesting issue with COVID restrictions for Feb/Mar 2023. I was not able to get vaccinated for COVID due to life threatening allergies to ingredients in the shots. I've got medical documents to verify as required by CDC. I spoke with two Border Patrol Agents at different ports of entry in Michigan before crossing to renew my visa and was told even with the appropriate documentation I would likely not be able to reenter the US! Apparently the border supervisors are not typically letting unvaxed people in regardless of documentation. Typically I do flagpole....drive from Michigan into Canada and back into Michigan. The agents suggested I purse my TN renewal via a I-129 with my employer. So I got that ball rolling quickly before my TN expired and we went with premium processing for a faster turnaround. Package was sent overnight on 2/23/23 and payments (checks) were cashed in 2 business days. Notice arrived 3/8/23 (dated 2/24/23). Looking forward to my renewal! Giving others a heads up as I would not have been aware of the situation without the Border Patrol Agents sharing.

[JP John 65]

Its ridiculous that they still want anyone to be vaccinated but that all ends in May finally!!!!

[Rose88 4]

46 minutes ago, JP John said:

Its ridiculous that they still want anyone to be vaccinated but that all ends in May finally!!!!

Yes...it's crazy! Here's hoping they actually drop the mandate in May...it's been pushed back so many times already. It remains to be seen if they will actually follow through in May