Do engineers need to pass the FE/PE exam to work under the TN visa?

The TN visa was created from the NAFTA agreement (currently USMCA) to facilitate the temporary entry of qualified professionals, including engineers, into the United States. This regime aims to meet demands in specific areas, easing the process for foreign professionals who have academic training related to their field of work.

In the case of engineers, there is no general requirement to pass the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) or PE (Professional Engineering) exams to obtain the TN visa. This means that, for the granting of this visa, it is usually enough to hold a recognized engineering degree along with a job offer where the duties align with the agreement’s definition for the engineering profession.

However, it is worth mentioning that, under certain circumstances, depending on the type of role and the employer”s requirements or even state regulations, there may be a need for a specific license to practice engineering on projects that impact public safety or require signing official documents.

It is always important to keep in mind that complying with immigration laws is essential to avoid future complications. Therefore, it is recommended that interested parties stay updated on regulations and verify the specific requirements of the job offer, as well as seek information through reliable sources. It is also wise to be cautious of promises of easy or guaranteed results, especially those coming from marketing campaigns that may not be aligned with the reality of legal procedures.

In summary, for most TN visa applications in the engineering field, the FE/PE exam is not a requirement. However, since each situation may have particularities, it is essential to confirm the requirements related to the job position and the jurisdiction where the work will be performed. Strictly following the guidelines of United States immigration laws and resorting to secure sources will help ensure a smooth process in accordance with current regulations.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.