The TN Visa is a temporary work permit for citizens of Mexico and Canada, established under the Treaty between Mexico, the United States and Canada (T-MEC), formerly known as NAFTA.
Allows qualified professionals to work in the U.S. in specific occupations listed in the treaty. The visa is granted for periods of up to three years and may be renewed indefinitely, provided eligibility requirements are maintained.
Recent changes in eligibility criteria for the TN Visa
In June 2025, the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its Policy Manual, implementing significant changes to the TN Visa eligibility requirements.
These changes affect several professions and establish stricter criteria for admission.
Excluded or restricted professions
Some occupations have been eliminated or restricted in the list of eligible professions for the TN Visa:
Computer programmers: Removed from the list of eligible professions.
Computer systems analysts: A specific degree in systems analysis and proven experience are now required.
Scientific Technicians: Must work under the direct supervision of a professional in one of ten specific disciplines and may not engage in direct patient care.
Health professionals: Physicians only qualify if they are engaged exclusively in teaching or research. Roles involving patient care or clinical support are excluded.
Stricter academic requirements
USCIS now requires that the applicant’s academic degree exactly match the profession to be practiced in the U.S. No indirectly related degrees or work experience will be accepted in lieu of the required academic training.
General Requirements for the TN Visa
To be eligible for a TN Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be a Mexican or Canadian citizen.
Have an offer of employment in the U.S. in one of the professions listed in the T-MEC.
Possess the necessary qualifications for the profession, including academic degrees and required licenses.
Demonstrate intent to return to their home country at the end of the employment period.
Application process for Mexican citizens
Mexican citizens must apply for the TN Visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Mexico. The process includes:
Complete the DS-160 form online.
Pay the corresponding application fee.
Schedule and attend an interview at the embassy or consulate.
Submit documentation supporting eligibility, including: Proof of Mexican citizenship. Letter of offer of employment detailing the position, duration and salary. Relevant academic degrees and professional licenses.
La Visa TN puede renovarse indefinidamente en incrementos de hasta tres años, siempre que se mantengan los requisitos de elegibilidad
Renewal and employer changes
Buzzy
If a TN Visa holder changes employers, he or she must file a new application with the appropriate documentation before beginning the new employment.
The following is recommended:
Review the updated list of eligible professions on the official USCIS website.
Make sure that the academic degree and professional experience exactly match the requirements of the desired profession.
Consult with an immigration attorney for personalized advice, especially if there are doubts about eligibility.
These changes reflect a stricter immigration policy in the U.S., so it is crucial for Mexican professionals to be well informed and prepare their application accurately to avoid setbacks.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
