The process of transitioning to a new sponsoring company while maintaining NAFTA Professional status allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to continue working in the United States without leaving the country. For instance, a software engineer working for Company A under this specific visa category could seamlessly transition to Company B, provided the new position also qualifies under the pre-defined professional occupations list.
This streamlined transition offers significant advantages, including employment continuity and avoidance of visa application delays and uncertainties. It provides flexibility for professionals and employers alike, fostering economic growth and cross-border collaboration. Historically, this provision has been a crucial element of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and its successor, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), facilitating the movement of skilled professionals across borders.