Engineer
Engineers apply scientific principles to design, develop, and improve structures, machines, and systems. Under USMCA, this category requires credentials in a recognized engineering discipline — Computer Science degrees no longer qualify as of June 2025.
June 2025 USCIS Policy Update
CRITICAL: As of June 2025, USCIS requires credentials in a recognized engineering discipline. Computer Science degrees no longer qualify. Software developers without an engineering degree or PE/P.Eng license should apply under Computer Systems Analyst instead.
GeneralHigh Demand$80,000–$150,000/yr
Education & Credentials
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
Alternative Credentials: State/provincial license or P.Eng
Qualifying Degrees
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
Common Job Titles
Software EngineerMechanical EngineerCivil EngineerElectrical Engineer
Canadian Credentials
- P.Eng from any provincial association (PEO, APEGA, EGBC, OIQ, etc.)
- Strengthens application significantly since June 2025 CS degree change
See our full Canadian credentials guide for more details.
Common Denial Reasons
- Computer Science degree used instead of engineering degree
- Job duties describe software development rather than engineering
- No P.Eng or PE license and degree is not in a recognized engineering field
- Job title says 'Engineer' but duties don't involve engineering principles
Employer Letter Tips
- Specify the engineering discipline (mechanical, civil, etc.)
- Detail how the role applies engineering principles and methodology
- Reference the applicant's engineering degree or PE/P.Eng license
- Avoid describing pure software development or IT duties
Important Note
Narrowed June 2025: must hold engineering degree or PE/P.Eng license. Software roles require engineering degree specifically.
Last updated: April 2026