Which Roles Qualify on the TN Visa Professions List?

If your business is considering hiring professionals from Canada or Mexico, understanding the TN visa professions list is a key step. The TN visa is a work authorization option created under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which allows highly-qualified professionals to work in the US in specific roles. 

In this guide, we’ll break down which roles qualify for this visa type and how employers should evaluate eligibility before moving forward.

What Is the TN Visa Professions List?

The TN visa professions list is a defined set of occupations approved under USMCA. Only jobs included on this list are eligible for TN visa classification. Unlike other work visas, the TN visa doesn’t allow for a broad interpretation of job duties or titles. 

Each profession on this list includes specific requirements in terms of education and other credentials. Employers seeking this visa type must be able to prove that the offered role aligns closely with the listed profession and that the worker meets the required qualifications.

Why the TN Visa Professions List Matters for Employers

For employers, the TN visa professions list determines whether a role can be filled using the TN visa in the first place. Even highly skilled candidates are ineligible if the job itself doesn’t clearly match a listed profession.

Misclassification is one of the most common reasons TN visa applications are delayed or denied. That’s why employers need to closely review both the job duties and the candidate’s credentials carefully before moving forward with any visa applications.

Common Roles on the TN Visa Professions List

Though the TN visa professions list is specific, it includes a wide range of professional roles across industries. Here are a few of the most commonly used categories for this visa.

Engineers

Engineering roles are some of the most frequently approved TN visa professions. This often includes civil, mechanical, electrical, industrial, and software-related engineering positions. The role must truly involve engineering duties and require a relevant degree.

Accountants

Accountants are eligible under the TN visa category when the role involves traditional accounting functions like auditing, financial reporting, or tax preparation. However, general bookkeeping or clerical finance roles usually don’t qualify for this visa. 

Computer Systems Analysts

This category is commonly used in technology-driven industries. To qualify, the role must focus on analyzing and designing information systems, not just programming or IT support tasks.

Scientists and Scientific Technicians

Certain scientific roles qualify for TN visas, such as chemists, biologists, physicists, and scientific technicians who support professional scientists. Employers must clearly document the scientific nature of the position to be eligible for approval.

Economists

Economist roles may qualify if they involve research, data analysis, and economic modeling. Business analysts or financial analysts don’t automatically qualify unless the role clearly meets the definition of an “economist.”

Education and Credential Requirements on the TN Visa Professions List

Every role on the TN visa professions list has specific educational requirements. In most cases, this means a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field directly related to the profession. While some roles allow alternative credentials, these exceptions are highly limited.

Before applying, employers must confirm that the candidate’s degree matches the profession and that they have any required licenses or certifications. If the credentials don’t closely align, the visa will likely not be approved.

How Employers Should Evaluate TN Visa Eligibility

Before applying for a TN visa, employers must carefully review the role and the candidate. They must consider:

• Whether the position clearly fits a listed profession

• Whether job duties align with the official description

• Whether the candidate meets all education requirements

• Whether the role is truly professional in nature

A strong TN case needs clear alignment between the job, profession, and the worker’s background.

Why Legal Guidance Is Important for the TN Visa

Though some see the TN visa as simpler than other work visas, it still carries significant risk. Border officers and adjudicators review applications closely, and inconsistencies can result in swift denials.

Legal guidance helps employers confirm whether a role qualifies under the TN visa professions list, draft accurate job descriptions, and prepare documentation correctly. This is especially important for employers applying for a TN visa for the first time, or for roles falling into gray areas. 

Youngblood & Associates works closely with employers to evaluate TN visa eligibility and prepare strong, compliant applications. We focus on practical guidance, clear communication, and strategic planning, so employers can hire confidently and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Whether you’re filling a single role or building a long-term hiring strategy, we can support you with a plan tailored to your business needs.

Final Thoughts: Form a Strong TN Visa Application

The TN visa professions list is a powerful tool for US employers, but only when applied correctly. Understanding the roles that qualify and how credentials are evaluated can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

If your business is considering hiring Canadian or Mexican professionals under the TN visa, experienced legal guidance can make all the difference. Contact our office to learn more about how we can help you navigate the TN visa process with confidence.