See all TN-eligible professions

TN Visa Guide for Recreational Therapists

Learn how to qualify as a Recreational Therapist and take your career to the U.S. with a TN Visa.

Key Requirements

  • Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Experience: Not strictly required
  • Valid Job Offer & Support Letter

TN Visa Requirements for Recreational Therapists

Here's a breakdown of the requirements you'll need to meet to qualify for a TN Visa as a Recreational Therapist.

Educational Requirements

You’ll need to be able to provide an original copy of these degrees, diplomas, or certifications in your TN package

  • Bachelor's degree in recreational therapy or a related field

Job Duties

Your job offer will need to include at least half of these duties

  • Assess patients’ needs through observation, medical records, tests, and discussions with other healthcare workers and patients and their families
  • Develop and implement treatment plans that meet patients’ goals and interests
  • Engage patients in therapeutic activities, such as exercise, games, and community outings
  • Help patients learn social skills needed to become or remain independent
  • Help patients to reduce and cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
  • Document and analyze a patient’s progress to ensure that their goals are met and to modify treatment as needed

Job Title

The job title on your offer of employment should match or be similar to one of the following:

  • Activity Director
  • Recreation Specialist

Job Offer

You will need to have accepted a written job offer from a U.S. employer that includes the following:

  • Job Title
  • Detailed job description
  • Source(s) of remuneration, salary, and benefits
  • Duration of employment
  • Must be on company letterhead with the original signature from your employer

Support Letter

Your employer will need to sign off on a support letter which confirms that your employer is aware of the TN visa requirements and is willing to support your application.

How to Apply

Your employer will need to sign off on a support letter which confirms that your employer is aware of the TN visa requirements and is willing to support your application.

  • Proof of Canadian citizenship (passport)
  • A detailed offer of employment from a U.S. employer that includes the nature of the job and its expected duration
  • Evidence of qualifications for the role, such as diplomas, degrees, and licenses
  • Proof that the job is on the list of TN eligible professions

Upon approval, Canadians can enter the U.S. for up to three years on a TN Visa, which can be renewed indefinitely.

How can I ensure my application is approved at the border?

To avoid any unexpected issues at the port of entry, we strongly recommend scheduling a professional consultation. With expert guidance, you can ensure your documents are in order and your application process goes smoothly. Don’t leave your future to chance—get the support you need to succeed!