Can I change from project manager to engineer under the same TN status?

TN status is a benefit that allows citizens of Mexico and Canada to perform specific professional activities in the United States, as provided by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), now updated by the USMCA. Each professional category under TN has well-defined requirements, both in terms of academic background and experience, as well as job descriptions.

In your case, if you entered with TN status as a project manager and now wish to work as an engineer, it is important to analyze whether the functions you intend to migrate to fit into the engineer category established by the U.S. government. In many cases, the professional functions and qualifications required for each category are distinct, which may imply the need to reassess your immigration status.

Changing your role without the proper visa modification can result in non-compliance with TN guidelines. If the job offer is changed and you begin to perform typical engineering duties, it is ideal to request a new TN status approval that corresponds to this role. This usually involves obtaining a new job offer letter detailing the responsibilities, qualification requirements, and evidence that you meet the criteria required for the engineer category.

It is recommended to follow this procedure to remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws. Remember the importance of strictly adhering to immigration rules by consulting official sources or specialized professionals to avoid future issues. There are always scams and promises of quick solutions that do not correspond to the complexity of immigration processes. Therefore, stay informed through reliable channels and attentive to the rules established by the U.S. government.

In short, it is possible to change from project manager to engineer, but it will be necessary to adjust your TN status through a new application that correctly reflects the new role and corresponding qualifications, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.