What is the NOC and how do I know whether my occupation qualifies for Canadian Permanent Residence

What is the NOC?

The National Occupation Classification is the tool that the Canadian government uses to standardize the activities performed on each position, this includes professional and trade jobs.

This classification describes the academic training and experience required for each occupation.

All the occupations in Canada have a four-digit code and the occupations are sub-classified in different levels: 0, A, B, C, or D.

The levels 0, A, and B are the ones known as high skilled occupations. The occupations classified within these levels usually have higher probabilities to be used to apply for permanent residence after having gained the required experience.

Currently, there are some programs such as Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that are considered an open door for people working in a high skilled occupation and who wish to apply for permanent residence.

Another example, it is the position of caregiver, specifically in the Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP). This occupation is level C but the Government of Canada allows people under this program to obtain permanent residence even though the occupation is not considered high skilled (Level 0, A, and B).

 

How do I know what level my occupation is?

The simplest way to find out the level of the occupation is following these steps:

1. Visit the following link: http://www5.hrsdc.gc.ca/noc/english/noc/2011/Welcome.aspx
2. On the left side, select: “Search the NOC”
3. On the next screen, select “Descriptions” and then click “Next”
4. Type your occupation and check the “All” option, then click “Search”
5. You will see a list of occupations, find yours and look for the four-digit code that shows there as well.
6. Once you have found the four-digit code please pay attention to the second digit only.
7. The second number shows what level your occupation is according to the following table:

 

* For the level zero you must consider only the first number. If the first number is zero, then the occupation level is zero. This level is considered the highest level.

Examples:

• Make-up Consultant: code 6561  – Level C
• Business Consultant: code 1122 – Level A
• Construction Manager: code 0711 – Level 0
• Carpenter: code 7271 – Level B
• Live-in Caregiver: code 4411- Level C
• Housekeeper: code 6731 – Level D

 

By: Maria Campos