The National Occupational Classification (NOC) divides all occupations practiced in Canada based on the work duties and skill level required to perform that job. Each occupation has a corresponding numerical code. For those who are pursuing the Canada PR process, identifying this code is the first step in the journey of determining their eligibility for a suitable immigration pathway.
Occupations are divided into the following groups:
• Skill Type 0: Management jobs
• Skill Level A: Professional jobs that typically require a university degree
• Skill Level B: Skilled trades and technical jobs that typically require apprenticeship training or college diploma
• Skill Level C: Intermediate jobs that typically require job-specific training and/or a high school diploma
• Skill Level D: Labor jobs that typically provide on-the-job training
Contrary to what many believe, the Canada NOC list does not enumerate the occupations that are in-demand across Canada. It simply lists all the occupations that can be practiced in Canada. Further, the various immigration programs run by federal and provincial governments in Canada select candidates based on which occupation group they belong to.
This is also why the best immigration consultants in Delhi at Visa Experts first identify the NOC code of the candidate and then suggest suitable immigration pathways, based on the occupation eligibility. Identifying the NOC is thus the first step of the process of moving to Canada.
• Those whose occupations fall under NOC Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B (considered as ‘skilled’ occupations) can apply for PR through the Express Entry System.
• Those whose occupations fall under NOC 0, A, B or C can also pursue the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.
• Those whose occupations fall under NOC Skill Level C or D can apply for a Provincial Nominee Program, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot or a temporary work permit.
Identifying the NOC code correctly can prove tricky, as several job designations are grouped together under one occupation group. Even if the NOC code is identified correctly, aspirants may not know which Canada PR process and pathway they are most eligible for. To eliminate these complications, seek the guidance of India’s most seasoned immigration consultants – at Visa Experts.
