Hi,
I am looking to hire an american citizen, but am concerned about his ability to obtain a visa. I believe that he is eligible under NAFTA, as a scientific technician. He does not have a degree, but has 7 years of relevant experience. My understanding is that the only way to get this visa is at the boarder, when coming across to work, however i am concerned that if the immigration official decides at that point that he is not qualified, then he will be out of a job and i will be down one employee, in a time sensitive situation. Can you tell me how likely he is to have trouble getting across? and if it is possible to obtain this type of visa beforehand?
Thanks,
Karen

Clarifications to the requirements of scientific technicians under the provisions of NAFTA do exist which specify that a minimum of 2 years of academic training is a requirement, although a baccalaureate level degree is not a requirement. There are other complexities associated with these types of cases which offset the advantage of not requiring a degree.

NAFTA Professional visas are generally sought at the port of entry. The risks that you describe are the typical problem with this type of application, as opposed to those which are decided at a visa office in advance. Depending on the circumstances of the case, some ports of entry may be able to render an advance decision on the case, however, eliminating the risk that concerns you. The work permit would still be issued at the port of entry, however, and not in advance.