The new classification of NOC codes: What does this mean for migration processes?

Every 10 years, the Canadian government restructures the National Occupational Classification (NOC) to adapt to the country's real economy. Canada uses this classification as a guide in its labor market, and this has a direct impact on its current immigration applications.

This technical change marks the end of a decade under the previous system and redefines how the government measures its professional capacity. If you do not update your profile under the new five-digit code, it will be automatically rejected.

It is important that you understand how to reclassify your profession under the new system.

‍

‍

What is the NOC and why will the 2016 system stop working?

‍

The NOC is the official system used by the Ministry of Immigration or IRCC to decide whether a foreigner's job is eligible for an immigration program. The old Skill Levels A, B, C, and D were confusing because they grouped very different occupations under the same letter.

This change aims to ensure that the system recognizes exactly how long you studied and what level of command you actually have. The new system is known by the acronym TEER, which breaks down your profile into six levels of Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilitiesto eliminate ambiguity in your professional training.

‍

The immediate impact on your immigration process

Starting November 16, 2022, your occupation code will be required to change from four to five digits. Please note the following aspects that will affect your profile in the Express Entry pool:

‍

• Canadian Experience: To qualify for the CEC program, your job must be at TEER levels 0, 1, 2, or 3, so if your position was downgraded, those hours will no longer count.

‍

• Provincial Nominations: If you have a nomination in progress, you must ensure that your new code matches the provincial approval to avoid rejection at the federal level.

‍

• Occupations that will be excluded: artists, fitness instructors, and tailors have lost their direct eligibility for the federal invitation system or Express Entry.

‍

• Occupations included: doors are opening for 16 new professions, including truck drivers, nursing assistants, and teacher assistants.

Important: if not perform the change manually in your profile, the system will not be able to read your information. 

You could permanently lose the points from your job offer or provincial nomination.

‍

‍

Recommendations

‍

For Canada, it is very important to know the profile of its candidates. This country is receptive, but it also requires specific skills and levels of education. Those seeking an invitation (ITA) should be prepared so that this new change does not surprise them with a rejection.

If you are currently undergoing an immigration process with our team of consultants at Immiland Canada, don't worry, we are aware of these changes.

If you still don't know how to use "Find my NOC," our consultants are here to help you throughout your immigration process.

• Official link to find your code (Find your NOC): Find your NOC - Canada.ca
• Source of the official transition report: Summary of the Express Entry Year-End Report 2022

If you have any questions, please email us at: info@immilandcanada.com

‍

With love,

‍

Immiland Canada