This question is better posted on the relocation forum on this site but the simple answer is that the USVI is a US territory and all immigration is under the Federal umbrella. In other words, you cannot work here unless you have all the pertinent documentation you would need to work anywhere in the United States, i.e. a work permit or resident alien ("green card") status, both of which are very difficult to obtain in a highly time-consuming process. Sorry!

"Canadians "do not require a work visa in the US or its territories!

Lizard - your info is incorrect. As any foreign nationals, Canadian citizens require a work visa or resident alien status in order to work in the US or its territories.

STT,
Me thinks you ought to look at the TN Canadians & Mexicans Status. This Document is completed at the boarder the day of entry in the US good for one year for the Canadians and can be renewed every year. Not so, for the Mexicans. No Lines no wait time. Or they can file at the boarder same day for an L-1 visa good for three years, No Lines no wait period. These documents allow them to work in the US and its territories. Or they can file for H-1B Visa (that's the one your referring to) it takes about 5 Business day's to get. There are Trade agreements, and a treaty agreement between these two countries. Canadians are not just any foreign national , they have special considerations available to them! Cheers!

But doesn't the TN status require documented sponsorship of a US company and isn't it limited to certain listed professions under the agreement? If it were that simple, then why all the fuss about "illegal" Mexican immigrants?

It is that simple for Canadians! Look at the list of professions, (they are extensive) if not on the TN list they can file a L-1. No documented sponsorship is required. Who's talking about "illegal" Mexican immigrants. Sometimes we all can learn something new.
We are talking about people being eligible to work in the US and how that can happen. Smoke and Mirrors doesn't cut it! Cheers!

Not that simple at all. Research quickly provides the correct info and, Lizard, you're providing inaccurate blanket info.

stprdi - my original answer stands. You cannot just go to the border, fill out a form and go to work in the US or any of its territories. There are scores of links to the subject but the one below is a good start:

www.sackskolken.com/visas/trade_NAFTA.html

Best of luck to you!

STT Resident,
Your Information comes from a lawyers web site.Try for starters the US Department of State;
http: travel.State.Gov/visa/temp/types/types-1274.html#3
I gave no inaccurate blanket info. You should call if you don't understand the information, they will help you out. Cheers

"If you want to work in the U.S. temporarily, under immigration law, you need a specific visa, based on the type of work you will be doing. Most temporary worker categories require the approval of a petition by DHS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you can apply for your visa. Important Note: Prospective employers should file the petition(s) as soon as possible (but not more than 6 months before the proposed employment will begin) to provide adequate time for petition and subsequent visa processing... "

http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1275.html

"NAFTA is the North American Free Trade Agreement. It creates special economic and trade relationships for the United States, Canada and Mexico. The nonimmigrant NAFTA Professional (TN) visa allows citizens of Canada and Mexico, as NAFTA professionals to work in the United States. Permanent residents, including Canadian permanent residents, are not able to apply to work as a NAFTA professional.

Professionals of Canada or Mexico may work in the U.S. under the following conditions:

* Applicant is a citizen of Canada or Mexico;
* Profession is on the NAFTA list;
* Position in the U.S. requires a NAFTA professional;
* Mexican or Canadian applicant is to work in a prearranged full-time or part-time job, for a U.S. employer (see documentation required). Self employment is not permitted;
* Professional Canadian or Mexican citizen has the qualifications of the profession

Requirements for Canadian Citizens

Canadian citizens usually do not need a visa as a NAFTA Professional, although a visa can be issued to qualified TN visa applicants upon request. However, a Canadian residing in another country with a non-Canadian spouse and children would need a visa to enable the spouse and children to be able to apply for a visa to accompany or join the NAFTA Professional, as a TD visa holder. To apply for visa, please see the requirements under the section Mexican Citizens - Applying for a TN Visa - Required Documentation.

A Canadian citizen without a TN visa can apply at a U.S. port of entry with all of the following:

* Request for admission under TN status to Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection, U.S. immigration officer;
* Employment Letter - Evidence of professional employment. See Employment Letter below;
* Proof of professional qualifications, such as transcripts of grades, licenses, certificates, degrees, and/or records of previous employment;
* Proof of ability to meet applicable license requirements;
* Proof of Canadian citizenship- Canadian citizens may present a passport, as visas are not required, or they may provide secondary evidence, such as a birth certificate. However, Canadian citizens traveling to the United States from outside the Western Hemisphere are required to present a valid passport at the port-of-entry;
* Fee of U.S. $50

The employer in the U.S. must provide to the applicant a Letter of Employment in the United States. The letter must indicate that the position in question in the U.S. requires the employment of a person in a professional capacity, consistent with the NAFTA Chapter 16, Annex 1603, Appendix 1603.d.1.

The applicant must present evidence of professional employment to satisfy the Consular Officer of your plans to be employed in prearranged business activities for a U.S. employer(s) or entity(ies) at a professional level. Part-time employment is permitted. Self-employment is not permitted. An employment letter or contract providing a detailed description of the business activities may be provided from the U.S. or foreign employer, and should state the following:

* Activity in which the applicant shall be engaged;
* Purpose of entry;
* Anticipated length of stay;
* Educational qualifications or appropriate credentials demonstrating professional status;
* Evidence of compliance with DHS regulations, and/or state laws; and
* Arrangements for pay.
* Although not required, proof of licensure to practice a given profession in the United States may be offered along with a job offer letter, or other documentation in support of a TN visa application."

http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1274.html