TD status by itself does not authorize employment. An eligible spouse or unmarried child under 21 may seek TD status, but a spouse's own work plan needs a separate category or authorization review.
Treat each household member's plans on their own facts
Include any remote work a spouse intends to continue from the United States, even for a Canadian employer, since the employer's location does not by itself supply permission to work. Review a child's schooling and any age-related question separately from the spouse's employment question, and clarify whether the household plans to arrive together or in stages so each person's documentation can be prepared accordingly.
Family planning should begin with each person’s own proposed activity. A spouse or child may seek TD classification when the principal qualifies, but TD does not provide work authorization. Record ages, citizenship, school plans, travel timing, and any independent professional opportunity before treating the household as one case. Hypothetical example: a forest-products economist accepts a temporary analysis role, while her spouse hopes to sell handmade furniture online after the move. The economist’s employer letter and degree may support TN, yet the spouse’s planned sales require a separate immigration analysis; calling the activity a hobby does not decide it. A child’s school enrollment should be coordinated with the expected period of status, not treated as proof of status. The principal must be a Canadian or Mexican citizen in a listed professional role for an employer, and TN cannot cover services to the principal’s own controlled business. Keep copies of every admission document for later travel and extensions.