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Migration Overseas
NOC & TEER Codes
Master Canada's National Occupational Classification system. Find your occupation code, understand skill levels, and discover how NOC affects your Express Entry eligibility and immigration prospects.
Understanding Canada's occupation classification system
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada's official system for organizing and describing occupations. Each occupation is assigned a unique 4-digit code that identifies the job duties, required skills, education, and experience. The NOC system is used by Statistics Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and employment agencies to categorize and track occupational information.
For immigration purposes, your NOC code determines your eligibility for various programs, affects your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in Express Entry, and influences whether you qualify for category-based draws. Different provinces also use NOC codes for their Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations.
Understanding skill levels and requirements for each TEER level
TEER stands for "Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities." It's a classification system that groups occupations based on the typical training and education required. The TEER system replaced the previous NOC skill level classification and provides a more detailed categorization of occupational requirements. For Express Entry, you must have work experience in a NOC code classified as TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 to be eligible.
Management occupations requiring leadership responsibilities and supervisory duties.
Occupations requiring university degree, professional credentials, or equivalent experience.
Jobs requiring college diploma, apprenticeship, or specialized technical training.
Occupations requiring high school diploma and on-the-job training or experience.
Occupations with minimal formal education requirements. Not eligible for Express Entry.
Residual occupations not classified in other groups. Not eligible for Express Entry.
Your occupation's role in the immigration process
Your primary NOC code must be TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 to qualify for Express Entry. TEER 4 and 5 occupations are ineligible for most immigration programs.
Your NOC code influences your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Certain in-demand occupations receive priority in category-based draws.
Different federal and provincial programs have specific NOC requirements. Some programs target STEM, healthcare, trades, or other sectors exclusively.
Category-based Express Entry draws specifically target occupations with NOC codes in priority sectors like healthcare, IT, trades, and French speakers.
Most common occupation codes for Indian applicants to Canada
Step-by-step guide to finding your occupation classification
Visit the official IRCC NOC code finder at noc.esdc.gc.ca. Search by job title, keywords, or NOC code. The search tool provides detailed information about each occupation including required skills, typical duties, and TEER classification.
Describe the main responsibilities of your job. The NOC database matches your job description to the closest occupational classification. Be specific about supervisory duties, technical skills, and decision-making responsibilities.
If you work in a specialized role, search for similar job titles. Many variations (e.g., Developer, Programmer, Software Engineer) may fall under the same NOC code. Check the detailed job description to confirm the match.
Eligibility requirements based on occupation classification
| Immigration Program | TEER 0 | TEER 1 | TEER 2 | TEER 3 | TEER 4-5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express Entry - FSW | Eligible | Eligible | Eligible | Eligible | |
| Express Entry - CEC | Eligible | Eligible | Eligible | Eligible | |
| Provincial PNP Programs | Eligible | Eligible | Eligible | Varies | |
| Category-Based Draws | Priority | Priority | Eligible | Some draws | |
| LMIA Work Permit | Possible | Possible | Possible | Possible | Possible |
Use the official Government of Canada tool
The most accurate way to find your NOC code is through the official IRCC/ESDC NOC database. This ensures your code matches exactly what immigration officials will reference.
Maximize your chances by understanding the system better
Use broad keywords first, then narrow down. Try multiple search terms related to your job duties, not just your job title. The more accurate your code, the better your immigration prospects.
Request your employer to include your NOC code in your employment verification letter or reference letter. This official confirmation protects you during the immigration process.
When you find a potential NOC code, carefully read the typical duties and required qualifications. Your actual job should closely match at least 80% of the listed responsibilities.
Keep detailed records of your job duties, achievements, and responsibilities. During assessment, IRCC may ask for evidence that your job matches your claimed NOC code.
Common questions about NOC codes and TEER categories
Only NOC codes classified as TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 are eligible for Express Entry. TEER 4 and 5 occupations are not eligible under Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, or Canadian Experience Class programs. Check the official NOC finder to confirm your TEER level.
No. You must declare one primary NOC code in your Express Entry profile. However, you can list secondary work experience under different NOC codes. Use your primary NOC code for the job where you have the most recent work experience meeting the TEER requirement.
Every occupation in Canada should have an NOC code. If you can't find yours, describe your job duties in detail to IRCC. They will match you to the closest classification. In rare cases, NOC code "9999" (Other occupations) is used, but this typically falls outside Express Entry eligibility.
No. IRCC focuses on your actual job duties, not your official job title. Many companies use non-standard titles. What matters is that your responsibilities match the typical duties listed for that NOC code. Your job letter should clearly describe your duties.
Your NOC code itself doesn't directly affect CRS points, but certain in-demand occupations qualify for category-based draws with lower cutoff scores. For example, healthcare, STEM, and trade workers may receive invitations at lower CRS scores than general draws.
TEER 0 represents management positions requiring supervisory responsibilities. TEER 1 includes professional roles requiring university degrees or professional credentials. Both are eligible for Express Entry, but TEER 0 is often prioritized in category-based draws.
Yes, TEER 3 is eligible for Express Entry. TEER 3 includes occupations requiring high school completion and on-the-job training or specialized training. However, you'll need at least 2 years of work experience at TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 level to qualify.
No. Always use the most accurate NOC code that matches your actual job duties. Misrepresenting your occupation can result in application rejection, file closure, or even future immigration bans. Immigration officers verify job duties against supporting documents.
Our immigration experts can help you identify the correct NOC code and ensure your application is competitive for the next Express Entry draw.
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