To qualify for a TN Visa, you must work in a profession listed under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and meet the education requirements for that job. Most TN professions require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field. However, some professions allow work experience or other credentials instead of a degree.
If you’re unsure whether your degree qualifies, this guide explains:
✔ How TN Visa education requirements work
✔ What to do if your degree doesn’t match exactly
✔ A 3-step test to check if your degree qualifies
TN Visa Degree Requirements
The USMCA lists specific professions that qualify for a TN Visa. Each has its own education and licensing requirements.
Most Professions Require a Bachelor’s Degree
For most TN Visa jobs, you must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field from an accredited institution in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S.
Some Professions Allow Alternative Qualifications
A few TN occupations accept work experience, certifications, or licenses instead of a degree. For example:
- Computer Systems Analyst – A degree OR experience may qualify.
- Management Consultant – No degree is required, but significant experience is needed.
Examples of TN Visa Professions & Their Requirements
| TN Profession | Required Education |
|---|---|
| Accountant | Bachelor’s in Accounting or related field |
| Engineer | Bachelor’s in Engineering |
| Graphic Designer | Bachelor’s in Graphic Design or related field |
| Scientific Technician | Degree OR specific experience |
What If Your Degree Doesn’t Match Exactly?
If your degree is not an exact match for your TN profession, you may still qualify if:
✔ Your degree is in a closely related field
✔ You have significant work experience (only for professions that allow it)
✔ You complete a credential evaluation if your degree was earned outside North America
The 3-Step Test: Does Your Degree Qualify?
Use this quick 3-step test to check if your degree meets TN Visa requirements:
✅ Step 1: Check the TN Visa Professions List
Find your profession on the USMCA professions lists and read its specific degree requirements.
✅ Step 2: Compare Your Degree to the Requirement
Make sure your degree:
- Is in a related field to your TN profession
- Comes from an accredited university in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S.
✅ Step 3: Get a Credential Evaluation (If Needed)
If your degree is from outside North America, you may need a credential evaluation to confirm its equivalency to a U.S. degree.
Final Tips for TN Visa Applicants
✔ Gather official transcripts and degree certificates.
✔ Translate documents if they are not in English.
✔ Consult an immigration professional if you are unsure about your qualifications.
Conclusion
Your degree plays a major role in TN Visa eligibility. Before applying, confirm that your education meets the USMCA requirements and consider a credential evaluation if necessary. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from an immigration expert to avoid delays.
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We Can Help!
If you have any questions regarding TN Visa. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
