What is the Canada NOC List?

Skilled workers planning to emigrate to Canada will notice that most immigration programs list a specific occupation skill type/level as one of the eligibility requirements. The National Occupational Classification divides all the occupations that are practiced in Canada, according to the job duties and nature of work. It does not indicate which occupations are in-demand across Canada. The main job classifications of the Canada NOC List are:

• Skill Type 0 – Management jobs
• Skill Level A – Professional jobs requiring a university degree
• Skill Level B – Skilled trades and technical jobs requiring a college diploma or apprentice training
• Skill Level C – Intermediate jobs requiring job-specific training and/or a high school diploma
• Skill Level D – Labor jobs that provide on-the-job training

The labor market requirements of various Canadian provinces and territories are listed as per the NOC Skill Level/Type, alongside the corresponding numerical code for each occupation. Each province has different requirements i.e. the NOC codes eligible for the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program may not necessarily be eligible for other provinces/territories. So, the NOC code also determines which immigration program a candidate can apply for.

For instance, people whose occupations are listed under NOC Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B can be eligible for the Express Entry System. Candidates under NOC Skill Level C or D may also be eligible for some Provincial Nominee Programs, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, or a work permit. To find out which immigration pathway is suitable for your occupational profile, you can seek the advice of Visa Experts – the best immigration consultants in Delhi.

The first step of the immigration process for most skilled workers is to identify their code and skill type on the Canada NOC List, and accordingly select a relevant immigration program. This factor determines the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and ultimately the scope for success in the pursuit of permanent residence.