TN Visa Requirements: Eligible Professions, Degrees and Licenses

Immigration » TN visas » Eligible professions and requirements

TN status lets citizens of Canada and Mexico work in the United States in certain professional occupations under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. It does not apply to permanent residents of those countries who are not citizens.

The basic requirements

Citizenship of Canada or Mexico.
A profession that appears on the USMCA list of eligible occupations.
Qualifications for that profession, which are usually a bachelor’s degree or a license, depending on the occupation.
A job offer in that profession from a U.S. employer, for a position that requires a professional in that field.
Work for a temporary period. Self-employment is not allowed.

Examples of listed professions

Engineers, computer systems analysts and scientists.
Accountants, economists and management consultants.
Physicians in teaching and research roles, nurses in some situations and other medical professionals.
Architects, lawyers in limited roles, teachers and several others.

How the job must match

The duties must match the listed profession. Officers compare the job description with the occupational definition. A title alone is not enough. A job that blends several roles can cause problems unless a main professional role is clear.

Evidence to prepare

A letter from the employer describing the job, the duties, the start date and the pay.
Degree, transcripts and license, with an evaluation if the degree is from outside the United States or Canada.
Proof of citizenship and a passport.
Evidence that the position is temporary.

Common problems

The position is a technician role that does not require a professional.
The employer cannot show a temporary need.
The applicant’s degree does not match the profession.
Past immigration problems or a pending immigrant petition raise intent questions.

TN visas guide

How our firm helps with TN visas

We confirm that your profession and degree fit the TN list.
We prepare the employer letter so the job description matches the profession.
We advise whether to apply at the border or through a petition.
We plan a green card path without risking TN renewals.

Situations we handle

Canadian and Mexican professionals
Border refusals
Renewals and dependents
Workers shifting to H-1B or a green card

Why clients choose our firm

A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
Russian-language service for clients and families.
Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with tn visas

Every case has its own facts. Request a consultation and we will review your situation, options and timeline.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.