NOC Code Canada: A Complete Guide for Indian Students

Did you know that by the end of July 2024, over 468,000 skilled workers applied for visas to work in Canada? If you want to join them, understanding the NOC Code in Canada is your first step. This five-digit code helps match your skills and qualifications to the right job, making it essential for immigration and job applications. 

Whether aiming for a top-tier job or planning your future, knowing your NOC Code in Canada can make all the difference. In this article, you’ll learn everything about how the NOC system works and why it matters for your career. 

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Key Highlights

Here is a quick overview of everything you will learn in this article about the NOC code in Canada.

What is the NOC Code in Canada?

The NOC Code in Canada, or the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, is how the Canadian government categorises every job in the country. 

Every occupation has a five-digit code used to classify jobs based on key factors, as mentioned below.

• The level of skill required
• The education needed
• The amount of work experience expected
• The responsibilities involved

Think of it as a blueprint for your career in Canada. Whether you’re a software engineer or a healthcare worker, the NOC system helps match your qualifications to the right job. 

What’s more? Immigration programs, like Express Entry, use these codes to determine your eligibility based on your work experience. 

Structure of the NOC Code in Canada

The NOC Code in Canada isn’t just a random set of numbers. It’s carefully structured to give you detailed information about any job. Each of the five digits in a NOC code tells you something specific. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the structure of the NOC classification in Canada.

NOC codes are structured to provide detailed information about any job. 

Here’s how it works.

• The first digit shows the broad occupational category.
• The second digit indicates the TEER category (Training, Education, Experience, Responsibilities).
• The first two digits together define the primary group.
• The first three digits identify the sub-major group.
• The first four digits represent the minor group.
• Finally, the full five digits specify the unit group or the exact occupation.

For example, let’s say you’re a software engineer. Your NOC code might start with “2” because it falls under the “Natural and applied sciences” category. The second digit would likely be “1” because it’s a high-skilled job that requires a university degree. The final three digits pinpoint your exact role within that category.

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NOC Code Categories

The NOC Code Categories help organise jobs in Canada based on skills, education, and experience. They make it easier for employers and the government to see where your job fits in the market. 

Understanding your NOC category is crucial when applying for jobs or immigration. In 2024, Canada granted 65,000 PRs to Indian nationals, showing the importance of knowing your NOC code for your career or immigration plans.

Broad Categories of NOC Code in Canada

The first digit of your NOC code shows which broad occupational group your job belongs to. There are 10 categories, each covering a wide range of professions. Whether you’re in business, healthcare, or the trades, this system helps organise the entire Canadian job market.

Here’s a breakdown of the broad categories in the NOC Code in Canada.

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TEER Categories in NOC Code in Canada

The TEER system is at the heart of the NOC Code in Canada. It stands for Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities, and it’s how jobs are grouped based on what’s required to perform them. 

Each job falls into one of six TEER categories, and the second digit of your NOC code tells you which one applies to your role.

Here’s a breakdown of the TEER categories on the NOC Canada list.

• TEER 0: Management roles.
• TEER 1: Requires a university degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate) or several years of experience from TEER 2.
• TEER 2: Requires a 2-3 year post-secondary education program, apprenticeship training (2-5 years), or supervisory/safety responsibilities like police officers or firefighters. It can also require several years of experience from TEER 3.
• TEER 3: Requires less than 2 years of post-secondary education, apprenticeship training, or more than 6 months of on-the-job training. It can also require several years of experience from TEER 4.
• TEER 4: Requires completion of secondary school or several weeks of on-the-job training. It can also require several years of experience from TEER 5.
• TEER 5: Jobs requiring short-term work demonstrations with no formal education needed.

Importance of NOC Codes for Immigration

Knowing your NOC Code in Canada is essential to immigrate to the country. The Canadian government uses it to assess your work experience for programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program.

Here’s why it matters.

1. Job Classification

NOC codes offer a standardised way to classify occupations in Canada. This helps immigration authorities understand your work and how it fits into the Canadian labour market.

2. Express Entry System

In programs like Express Entry, NOC codes evaluate your eligibility for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Your NOC code and factors like education, work experience, and language skills help determine your points.

3. Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

If an employer needs to hire a foreign worker, they may need an LMIA. NOC codes are part of this process, ensuring that the job offer matches the proper classification and that efforts have been made to hire Canadians first.

4. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many provinces use NOC codes to assess candidates for their immigration needs. If your occupation is in demand in a particular province, your NOC code can help align your skills with what that province is looking for.

5. Skilled Worker Points System

NOC codes are also part of the points system used in various immigration programs. Your NOC code contributes to the points awarded for factors like your education, work experience, and job offer. The correct NOC code can give you an edge in your immigration application.

How to Find Your NOC Code in Canada?

Finding your NOC code is more accessible. It’s just a few steps away and crucial for understanding where your job fits in the Canadian labour market.

Here’s a quick guide to help you find your NOC code.

• Visit the Government of Canada’s website and use the NOC search tool.
• Enter your job title or a related keyword to get a list of matches.
• Read through the job descriptions to find the one that fits your role.
• Ensure the TEER category matches your education and experience.

You can easily find your NOC Code in Canada by following these steps.

Popular NOC Codes for Skilled Workers and Students

Canada is ranked the 11th most peaceful country globally, making it an attractive destination for students and skilled workers. Knowing the NOC codes for some of the most sought-after fields and professions is helpful if you plan to work or study in Canada. 

Here’s a quick look at popular industries and their corresponding NOC codes from the NOC occupation list in Canada.

In-Demand NOC Codes in Canada

Certain NOC codes represent jobs that are currently in high demand across Canada. These roles are crucial to various industries and offer strong job prospects for skilled workers. 

Here’s a list of some of the in-demand NOC codes.

NOC Codes in Canada As Per TEER Category

The TEER system organises NOC codes based on training, education, and responsibilities. Below are specific job roles with their NOC codes, grouped by TEER categories from the NOC occupation list in Canada.

TEER 0: Management-Level Occupations

TEER 0 in the NOC code in Canada includes high-level management roles such as legislators and senior managers. These positions typically require significant experience and responsibilities in leadership and decision-making.

Here is a table with NOC codes for TEER 0 jobs.

TEER 1: Jobs Requiring Specialised Knowledge or Expertise

TEER 1 jobs in the NOC code in Canada demand advanced qualifications, such as a university degree or years of experience. These roles include positions like financial analysts and engineers, requiring specialised education and skills.

Here is a table with NOC codes for TEER 1 jobs.

TEER 2: Supervisory or Safety-Focused Occupations

TEER 2 roles under the NOC code in Canada typically require post-secondary education or supervisory experience. Jobs in this category include roles like finance or logistics supervisors, focusing on leadership and safety responsibilities.

Here is a table with NOC codes for TEER 2 jobs.

TEER 3: Jobs Requiring Over Six Months of On-the-Job Training

TEER 3 occupations in the Canada NOC code are mid-level roles requiring moderate education or on-the-job training. Examples include administrative officers and payroll administrators, requiring less formal education but practical experience.

Here is a table with NOC codes for TEER 3 jobs.

TEER 4: Jobs Requiring a Few Weeks of On-the-Job Training

TEER 4 jobs in the NOC code in Canada are entry-level positions with minimal training requirements. Roles like receptionists and office support workers fall into this category, focusing on tasks that can be learned quickly.

Here is a table with NOC codes for TEER 4 jobs.

TEER 5: Roles with Short-Term Work Experience and No Formal Education Needed

TEER 5 under the NOC code in Canada covers jobs that require no formal education and are often learned through short-term work experience. Typical roles include food counter attendants and light-duty cleaners.

Here is a table with NOC codes for TEER 5 jobs.

Conclusion

Understanding your NOC Code in Canada is essential for both immigration and job opportunities. From securing permanent residency to matching your skills with high-demand jobs, your NOC code is critical in your journey to work or live in Canada. Knowing where your job fits within the Canadian labour market gives you a clear advantage.

If you’re thinking about working in Canada, studying there can boost your chances. Gaining a Canadian education strengthens your qualifications and enhances your understanding of the local job market. 

Leap Scholar offers tailored services to help you succeed. From personalised university selection and SOP reviews to visa assistance and IELTS preparation, we will guide you through every step of the process. 

Take the next step in your education journey and connect with Leap Scholar today!

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