Yes the government is asking for RFE - Request for Evidence after filing for Visa's on TN's which was rare in the past, this of course extends the time is takes to get a Visa.
In my personal experience, it did get a lot harder from 2014 to 2016. My first TN-1, in 2014, was approved very easily with no issue. Had all the standard documentation and there was no ask for additional evidence.<p>Renewing in 2016 didn't go as well... I was initially denied at the Port of Entry, had to get a lawyer to coordinate an appeal. That took about 30 days, but eventually was granted a 3 year TN. I worked with Peter Roberts who does AMA's here from time to time on the appeal. Actually can't recommend him enough to any Canadian's looking to work in the US!
I'm the lucky one who got green card only 1.5 yrs after getting TN-based job in 2015.<p>I think lots is determined by the pull factor - how much US company wants you.<p>Agree with the fact that equally skilled, similar-timezoned, english-speaking Canadians are severely underpaid and US/tech is a good opportunity to equalize this.
I'm also interested to find out what employers in the US think. Would you still consider resume's that come from Canadians? I seem to remember it being easier to get responses (before Trump). Has the climate changed? This is geared more towards the technical space.
I've been getting my TN Visas at YVR for the past 8 years. Always had to go to secondary and wait for an extra 1 hour. Nothing too different recently.<p>That being said, it also depends on how your application package is formatted, what position you're applying for, and your demeanor when applying. All these could affect your application process.
I've found each TN application to be largely affected by the customs officer. I've had smooth sailing going through Vancouver, as long as all my documents are in order. I've had a lot of trouble going through Toronto (with the same documents). Just some anecdotal application location advice!
My workplace is submitting H1-B applications for TN status employees earlier than normal, probably due to uncertainty around TNs.<p>That said, my latest in-person TN application wasn’t more difficult than before.
I don't have experience with the TN, but the place I used to work at had an easy time getting L-1 visas during the Obama administration, but during the Trump administration it seemed like the government wanted a lot of extra supporting documentation.