In Canada, the National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a system used to organize all jobs in the labour market. Each job is placed into a group and given a unique code. This system is very important for immigration programs like Express Entry because it helps assess an applicant’s work experience accurately.
On November 16, 2022, the NOC system changed from NOC 2016 to NOC 2021. One of the biggest updates was the introduction of TEER categories, replacing the older skill type system.
What Does NOC Mean?
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a standard system used by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It provides a detailed description and code for every occupation in Canada.
When applying for Canadian immigration, you must select the NOC code that correctly reflects your job duties and work experience. This ensures your experience is evaluated properly and meets program requirements.
Key Features of NOC 2021
Under NOC 2021, jobs are grouped into TEER categories instead of the previous skill levels. These categories explain the amount of training, education, experience, and responsibilities required for each occupation.
The six TEER categories are:
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TEER 0: Management-level jobs
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TEER 1: Jobs requiring a university degree or extensive experience in a TEER 2 occupation
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TEER 2: Jobs requiring a 2–3 year college program, technical institute program, or apprenticeship
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TEER 3: Jobs needing apprenticeship training or specialized courses
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TEER 4: Jobs requiring a high school diploma and on-the-job training
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TEER 5: Jobs with no formal education requirement
How the NOC Code Works
NOC codes use a five-digit structure that represents different levels of classification.
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Major Group: First 2 digits
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Sub-major Group: First 3 digits
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Minor Group: First 4 digits
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Unit Group: Full 5-digit code describing the exact occupation
Each digit plays a role in identifying the type of job, skill level, and responsibilities.
Understanding Your TEER Category
Here’s a quick breakdown of how work experience is grouped:
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TEER 0: Management occupations
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TEER 1: Jobs requiring university-level education or long-term experience in TEER 2
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TEER 2: Jobs requiring college diplomas, technical programs, or apprenticeships
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TEER 3: Jobs requiring apprenticeship training or related work experience
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TEER 4: High school–level jobs with job-specific training
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TEER 5: Jobs requiring no formal education
NOC Codes and Immigration Eligibility
For immigration purposes, jobs are classified as either high-skilled or low-skilled:
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High-Skilled Occupations: TEER 0, 1, 2, and 3
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Low-Skilled Occupations: TEER 4 and 5
If you are applying under Express Entry or certain provincial programs, your work experience usually needs to fall under TEER 0–3.
How to Find Your NOC Code
To choose the correct NOC code, follow these steps:
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Use the NOC Matrix on the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) website.
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Read the Lead Statement for each code and ensure it matches your job role.
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Compare Job Duties with your actual work experience. At least 70–80% of duties must match.
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Pick the Best Fit if your job seems to fall under multiple codes.
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Prepare Supporting Documents, such as reference letters that clearly outline your responsibilities.
Important Things to Remember
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Choosing the correct NOC code is critical. A wrong code can lead to refusal of your immigration application.
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Not every NOC is eligible for immigration, so check program requirements before applying.
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After submission, you cannot change your NOC code, so choose carefully.
Summary
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NOC: A classification system used to identify and categorize all jobs in Canada.
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TEER: Six categories (0–5) that replaced skill levels in NOC 2021.
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Purpose: Helps IRCC evaluate your work experience for immigration.
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NOC Code Structure: Five-digit code showing the group and job description.
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Eligible TEER Levels for immigration: 0, 1, 2, and 3.
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Correct Code Selection is essential and must match your job duties.
