What is NOC?

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is the system used by Canada to classify all occupations in the labour market. Each immigration candidate must indicate in their application the NOC code that most accurately reflects their work experience.

Why is it so important?

Choosing the Right NOC Code — This is a critical step in the permanent residence application process. In order for your NOC to be accepted, you must prove that you have performed most of the essential duties specified for your chosen occupation.

Immigration officers carefully check your work experience against the description and duties specified in your chosen NOC code. If your experience does not match or the code is incorrect, your application will be rejected.

How to determine NOC?

Start by thoroughly reviewing the NOC database. Look at the responsibilities, not just the job title, and choose the code that most accurately reflects your job.

For immigration purposes, an occupation classified as level (TEER) 0, 1, 2, or 3 — considered high-skilled work. An occupation classified as TEER 4 or 5 is considered low-skilled. The easiest way to determine the TEER of an occupation is to look at the second digit in the NOC code. For example, the NOC code for an office manager position is 13100. This experience is eligible for federal programs because it is a TEER 3, which is considered high-skilled work experience.

Although currently for federal immigration only TEER 0, 1, 2, and 3 are eligible, IRCC expressed its intention to add TEER 4 and 5 to the federal programs in the summer of 2024. Currently, candidates with low-skilled work experience can apply through provincial programs.

If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, Contact us. We will help you avoid mistakes and successfully go through the entire immigration process!

Important: Immigration requirements are constantly changing. The information on this page is current at the time of publication.