Managing Attorney
For professionals from Canada and Mexico, the TN visa provides an opportunity to work in the United States in certain qualified occupations. The visa is part of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly NAFTA, and it is designed to make cross-border employment more accessible. But not every career is eligible, and the list of recognized professions is very specific.
In this guide, we’ll explain which careers qualify, the requirements for each, and some recent updates that may affect your eligibility.
What Is a TN Visa?
The TN (Trade NAFTA) visa allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to work temporarily in the U.S. in designated professional roles. Unlike other work visas, it doesn’t require labor certification or a petition by the employer, making it a more streamlined option for those who qualify.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a citizen of Canada or Mexico
- Work in a qualifying profession under the USMCA list
- Meet the educational or licensing requirements for that profession
- Have a pre-arranged job with a U.S. employer
Categories of TN Visa Professions
The USMCA defines the professions that qualify. These are not broad categories but very specific occupations. Here’s a breakdown of some of the main fields.
Accountants
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree or a professional accounting designation (CPA, CA, CGA, or CMA).
- Work must involve traditional accounting services such as auditing, financial reporting, or tax advisory.
Engineers
- Covers most recognized branches: civil, mechanical, electrical, industrial, chemical, and more.
- Requires at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related discipline.
Scientists
A wide range of scientific professions is included, such as:
- Biologists
- Chemists
- Geologists
- Geophysicists
- Pharmacologists
Each typically requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific field.
Medical and Health Care Professionals
- Registered Nurses (RNs) with valid U.S. state licensing
- Physicians (in limited teaching or research roles, not patient care)
- Dietitians, Medical Technologists, and Physiotherapists
All must hold degrees and, where applicable, U.S. state licensing.
Teachers
- College, university, and seminary teachers may qualify if they have the required degree.
- Other teaching roles, such as elementary or secondary school teachers, are not included.
Business and Management Professionals
- Economists (bachelor’s or master’s degree required)
- Management Consultants (experience may substitute for a degree if well-documented)
- Hotel Managers (bachelor’s degree or diploma plus experience)
Other Professions
The list also includes roles such as:
- Architects
- Computer Systems Analysts (but not general IT workers or programmers)
- Lawyers (LL.B., J.D., or Licenciatura en Derecho required)
- Urban Planners
- Librarians
Educational and Licensing Requirements
For each profession, you must show that you meet the minimum educational requirements. This usually means presenting a diploma, degree, or professional license. Some professions, like Management Consultant, allow for work experience to substitute for formal education, but the standards are strict.
U.S. employers may also need to verify licensing if the role requires state approval, such as nursing or law.
Recent Updates and Clarifications
The TN visa professions list is stable, but U.S. immigration authorities have clarified eligibility in several ways:
- Computer professionals: Only “Systems Analysts” are explicitly listed. Software developers, IT technicians, and general programmers do not qualify unless their work aligns with systems analysis.
- Medical roles: Nurse Practitioners and similar advanced nursing roles can qualify if state licensing requirements are met.
- Hybrid or emerging roles: Applicants must show that their duties closely match one of the listed professions, even if job titles differ.
Because job classifications evolve, immigration officers look closely at job descriptions, not just titles.
Why Eligibility Matters
The TN visa professions list is exhaustive. If your career does not appear on the list, it is not eligible. Even if your job title is slightly different, what matters is whether your duties match one of the recognized professions. Applying under the wrong category almost always results in delays or denials.
How Zepeda Law Firm Can Help
At Zepeda Law Firm, we help Canadian and Mexican professionals and U.S. employers assess eligibility for TN visas, prepare documentation, and respond to any issues that arise during the process. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your TN status, we can guide you each step of the way.
Is a TN Visa Right for Your Career?
The TN visa can be a valuable path for professionals who qualify under the USMCA list. But eligibility depends on more than just your job title. It requires aligning your education, experience, and duties with the recognized professions.
If you’re unsure whether your career qualifies, or you want help preparing a strong TN visa application, contact Zepeda Law Firm today. We will review your case, explain your options, and support you in pursuing employment opportunities in the U.S.