Read the general life across the border overview
A Leduc household may plan a principal’s technical-writing assignment and a spouse’s editorial services. Describe the actual clients, work and location before calling all assistance a private family activity.
Match each person to the actual dependent classification
An eligible spouse and unmarried children under 21 may qualify for the relevant dependent category. TD permits study but does not authorize employment. Qualifying E and L spouses may work incident to valid status with appropriate evidence, while children do not receive that spouse authorization. Do not carry the rule from one category into another. Eligible TD, E and L dependents may study while maintaining their status; school enrolment does not extend that status, and immigrant CSPA rules do not extend temporary dependent eligibility.
Describe ongoing client services honestly
Identify whether the spouse will edit customer manuals, manage deadlines or provide other services to an enterprise. A Canadian payer or an unpaid label does not itself establish permission for work in the United States. Professional ability and access to the principal’s files also do not grant work authorization.
Check status evidence rather than employer intention
The principal’s job offer or petition approval is not the spouse’s admission record. Verify the actual classification and dates, including relevant spouse-designated I-94 evidence where applicable. A company’s willingness to add the spouse to a project does not itself create dependent status.
Separate current activities from future immigrant plans
An EB-5 petition or Gold Card payment does not grant current residence or work permission. Assess each person’s real eligibility and any applicable child-age protection, without assuming a payment universally freezes age. Family members holding immigrant visas must follow the relevant entry sequence, with the principal arriving before or with them.
What else is on your mind?
Is a matching job title enough for TN?Can years of experience replace a degree for TN?Can my own U.S. company employ me under TN?Can my spouse work if I hold TN status?Editorial source review: 2026-09-07. General preparation guidance, not an individual assessment.