Cross-Border Warranty Work: What Canadian Businesses Need to Know Under USMCA

How to Navigate After-Sales Service in the U.S. Without a Visa

Canadian companies that sell commercial or industrial equipment to U.S. clients often need to provide after-sales service. This can include installation, repairs, or training. But when that service requires sending technicians across the border, things can get complicated. Fortunately, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) offers a clear path for business visitors - if you follow the rules.

What Is Allowed Under USMCA?

USMCA allows Canadian technicians to enter the U.S. as business visitors - without a visa- if they are performing after-sales service that is:

• Specified in the original sales contract or invoice

• Related to commercial or industrial equipment

• For goods manufactured outside the U.S.

  
  

Permitted services include:

• Installation and setup

• Testing and diagnostics

• Training or supervision

• Warranty repairs or software updates

  
  

Importantly, the service does not need to be performed by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). A third-party service provider may qualify, as long as the service agreement was entered into at the time of sale.

What You Need to Bring

To avoid delays or denials at the border, technicians should carry:

• A copy of the original sales contract or invoice

• A valid warranty or service agreement

• Proof of the equipment’s origin (such as customs documentation)

  
  

What Is Not Allowed?

Even with proper documentation, technicians cannot:

• Work on equipment made in the U.S.

• Perform services not covered in the original agreement

• Stay longer than necessary for the service task

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Case Example: A Smooth Cross-Border Service Call

Company: MapleTech Industrial Solutions, based in Ontario

Client: A manufacturing plant in Michigan

Scenario: MapleTech sold a German-made robotic arm to a U.S. client. The original invoice included a clause for one year of software updates and calibration services. Six months after the sale, the client requested a software update.

Action: MapleTech sent a technician with the original invoice, proof of the equipment’s German origin, and a copy of the service clause. The technician entered the U.S. as a business visitor, completed the work in two days, and returned without issue.

Result: The client was satisfied, and MapleTech avoided the delays and costs of applying for a work visa.

What If the Service Clause Is Missing or Expired?

If the original sales contract does not include a service clause, or if the warranty period has expired, the technician will not qualify for business visitor status. In such cases, the technician may need to apply for a:

• TN visa (for professionals under USMCA, such as engineers or computer systems analysts)

• L-1B visa (for employees with specialized knowledge transferring within the same company)

  
  

Failing to use the correct visa or status can result in denial of entry or future travel complications.

Best Practices

• Pre-screen your technicians to ensure they qualify as business visitors.

• Educate your team on what services are permitted under USMCA.

• Keep documentation organized and accessible during travel.

• Consult a U.S. immigration expert if you're unsure about eligibility.

  
  

Conclusion

USMCA makes it easier for Canadian businesses to support their U.S. customers through after-sales service. By understanding the rules and preparing the right documents, you can deliver excellent service across the border without unnecessary complications.

Have questions about cross-border service or work authorization?

📧 Email us at info@peludimmigration.com — we're here to help.