New NOC 2021 Immigration Canada | TEER System | How to Guide

NOC 2021 was implemented on November 16, 2022. Check out the changes, what it means for you, and how you can find your NOC using the new TEER system.

What is the National Occupational Classification NOC?

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s system that uses codes to describe and organize over 35,000 occupations in Canada. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada IRCC uses NOC to assess your work experience by skill type and skill level. By using this system, IRCC can pick immigrants with the skills and experience Canada needs to grow its economy and easily understand if you meet the work experience requirements for various immigration programs like:

• Express Entry
• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Canadian Experience Class
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Atlantic Immigration Program
• Provincial Nominee Program
• Caregivers programs
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program
• Agri-Food Pilot
• Out-of-status construction workers
• International Mobility Program
• Temporary Foreign Worker Program

What has changed with NOC 2021 and what is the new TEER system?

Every ten years, the National Occupational Classification (NOC) is updated to reflect changes in the economy and the nature of work. The most recent update is NOC 2021 which was implemented by IRCC on November 16, 2022. NOC 2021 overhauls the structure of how jobs are classified.

Previously, NOC 2016 codes were structured into 5 skill types: NOC 0, NOC A, NOC B, NOC C, and NOC D. However, with the introduction of NOC 2021, these skill types are replaced by the new 6 Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities TEER categories: TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, TEER 3, TEER 4, and TEER 5. The NOC 2021 version it takes the occupations from NOC B and splits it into TEER 2 and TEER 3 to better reflect the varying levels of education and training required for occupations in these groups.

Another change is that 4-digit occupation codes will become 5-digit codes. For example, if your NOC 2016 code was 2173 as a Software Engineer, your current NOC 2021 code would be 21231.

How do I find my new NOC code using the NOC 2021 TEER system?

One of the most important aspects of your immigration application is selecting the appropriate NOC code. If you claim a NOC code that does not correspond with your professional experience, your application may be rejected or sent back to you. Therefore, it is crucial that you choose the NOC code that most accurately describes the work you performed.

However, finding your new 2021 NOC code for Canadian immigration can be overwhelming. Not only are there over 35,000 occupations, but your job title may not be an accurate reflection of occupations in NOC 2021. Here’s our recommendation on how to find your NOC code.

First, start by going to noc.esdc.gc.ca to use their NOC Search tool. Select the NOC 2021 version and click ‘Search by NOC code’. Now, you can enter different keywords for your job, and the search tool will show you previews of potential NOC codes. Click ‘Search’ after choosing a job title that best fits your job. After, you’ll see several different pieces of information about the job. You’ll have to make sure that the lead statement of the NOC matches your job description and that you’ve conducted a majority of the main duties listed under the NOC. Lastly, check that there are no NOC codes listed under ‘NOC exclusions’ that match your job. Repeat these steps until you find a NOC code that best matches your job.

How does NOC 2021 affect you?

With the switch to the 2021 version of NOC, programs like Express Entry, Atlantic Immigration Program, Provincial Nominee Programs, Caregivers programs, Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program, Agri-Food Pilot, International Mobility Programs, and Temporary Foreign Worker Programs are affected.

NOC 2021 to affect Express Entry eligibility

With NOC 2016’s NOC B jobs being split between NOC 2021’s TEER 2 and TEER 3, some candidates may have their eligibility affected due to changes in eligibility for certain occupations.

Specifically for Express Entry, only occupations in TEER 3, TEER 2, TEER 1, and TEER 0 are eligible. With NOC 2021, 16 occupations have become eligible, and 3 occupations have become ineligible for Express Entry. Here is a list of all occupations that have become eligible and ineligible.

Newly Eligible Occupations under Express Entry

• Payroll administrators
• Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
• Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
• Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
• Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants
• Sheriffs and bailiffs 
• Correctional service officers 
• By-law enforcement and other regulatory officers 
• Estheticians, electrologists and related occupations 
• Residential and commercial installers and servicers 
• Pest controllers and fumigators 
• Other repairers and servicers 
• Transport truck drivers 
• Bus drivers, subway operators and other transit operators
• Heavy equipment operators
• Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors.

Newly Ineligible Occupations under Express Entry

• Other performers
• Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport and fitness
• Tailors, dressmakers, furriers and milliners.

Looking for experienced and trusted immigration consultants?

Finding the right NOC code for your work experiences is crucial to prevent application refusals, delays, and complications. However, finding the NOC code is only one part of your application. Working with an experienced immigration consultant can increase your chances of successfully immigrating to Canada. If you would like professional help with your application, book a consultation with us!