TD does not authorize employment, including a plan to work remotely while physically in the United States.
Review the household’s actual activities
Discuss the spouse’s employment plans before assuming the principal’s TN solves them. Children may study while maintaining the applicable dependent status, but do not receive work permission solely through TD. Hypothetical example: a soil-conservation specialist’s partner plans to continue paid online consulting after moving with the family.
List every proposed activity by the dependent, including unpaid help for a business, remote paid services and study. The status record governs whether an activity is allowed; an employer’s remote-work policy cannot create authorization. Discuss the household plan before housing or client commitments are made, then identify whether the partner needs an independent route.
A common mistake is calling paid online work “incidental” because the customer is outside the country. Physical presence and the activity matter. Preserve school enrolment and relationship records separately, and reconsider the plan if the principal’s assignment or the dependent’s activity changes.
Record the decision in writing, including where the work occurs and who receives it, before a dependent begins an activity that may require another status.