A NOC code is a five-digit number in Canada’s National Occupational Classification system that identifies your occupation based on your job duties and skill level. IRCC uses NOC codes to determine eligibility for Express Entry, work permits, and PR programs. The NOC 2021 system uses TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories from 0 to 5.

Use the NOC code search tool on this page by entering your job title or keywords. The tool will show matching occupations with their NOC codes. Review each option and compare the listed duties with your actual work responsibilities. Choose the NOC code where your duties match at least 70% of the description. Remember, IRCC evaluates based on duties, not job titles alone.

Your NOC code is correct when your main job duties match the duties listed in the NOC description. Read the “main duties” section for your chosen NOC code and verify you perform most of those tasks. Your job title can be different from the NOC title as long as your actual duties align. For Express Entry, ensure your NOC code is in TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3.

NOC 2016 used a 4-digit code with skill levels 0, A, B, C, and D. NOC 2021 uses a 5-digit code with TEER categories 0 to 5. TEER focuses on training, education, experience, and responsibilities rather than just skill type. As of November 16, 2022, IRCC uses only NOC 2021 for all immigration applications. You must use the new 5-digit NOC code and TEER category.

For Express Entry, use the NOC code that matches your actual work experience duties. Your NOC must be in TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3 to qualify. TEER 4 and 5 occupations are not eligible for Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class programs. Match your primary occupation with the NOC description where you performed those duties for at least one year.

Yes. Using an incorrect NOC code is a common reason for PR application refusals. If IRCC determines your duties don’t match your declared NOC code, they can refuse your application or reduce your CRS points. You may also face misrepresentation allegations if the error appears intentional. Always choose your NOC code based on your actual duties, not the NOC that gives you the most points.

Start by listing your daily tasks and responsibilities. Search for NOC codes related to your job title. Read the “main duties” section for each potential match. Choose the NOC where you perform most (typically 70% or more) of the listed duties. Focus on what you actually do daily, not occasional tasks. Your employment reference letters should describe duties that match your chosen NOC code.

Always choose based on duties, not job title. IRCC evaluates your NOC code by reviewing your reference letters and job responsibilities. Two people with the same job title can have different NOC codes if their duties differ. Your official job title matters less than what you actually do every day. Match your real duties to the NOC description, even if your job title is different.

Express Entry programs accept TEER categories 0, 1, 2, and 3. TEER 0 includes management occupations. TEER 1 requires a university degree. TEER 2 typically requires college education or apprenticeship training. TEER 3 requires secondary school and job-specific training. TEER 4 and TEER 5 occupations do not qualify for Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class.

Yes, you can update your NOC code in your Express Entry profile before receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). After receiving an ITA, you cannot change your NOC code unless you decline the invitation and create a new profile. If you realize your NOC code is wrong after receiving an ITA, consult an immigration consultant immediately to understand your options and avoid refusal.

Use the same process as for Express Entry. Your employer’s LMIA application must include the correct NOC code matching the job duties in the job offer. The NOC code determines the LMIA processing stream and wage requirements. Work permit applications require the NOC code to match your job offer letter. Any TEER category can be used for work permits, but different rules apply depending on the TEER level.

Yes, this page provides a free NOC code finder tool that searches the complete NOC 2021 database. You can also use the official Government of Canada NOC website. Both tools let you search by job title or keywords. This tool provides additional guidance on matching duties and understanding TEER categories specifically for immigration applications.

For Express Entry, you declare one primary NOC code based on your main occupation. You can include additional work experience under different NOC codes to claim more points, as long as each position is skilled work (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) for at least one year. Each work experience entry requires its own NOC code that matches the duties you performed in that specific role.

Not necessarily. Some PNP streams target specific NOC codes based on provincial labor needs. You must use the NOC code that matches your actual duties, but different provinces may prioritize different occupations. Your Express Entry NOC must match your primary occupation, while a provincial nomination may be based on that same NOC or on a different occupation where you have qualifying experience. Check each province’s occupation list.

The official NOC 2021 database is available on the Government of Canada website at canada.ca. You can browse all occupations by TEER category or search by keyword. This page’s tool provides the same official NOC data with additional immigration-specific guidance. Both resources show the five-digit NOC code, TEER category, job titles, main duties, and employment requirements for each occupation.