Editor’s Note: This Guide is contributed to +1 By Angrez Angurana, RCIC at Visaplus Immigration Canada to our Express Entry’s Newcomer Resources series. Angrez offers transparent and ethical advice to clients seeking immigration assistance.
Selecting the correct National Occupational Classification (NOC) code is crucial when applying for Express Entry. This step has become even more critical with the introduction of category-based draws.
Choosing the wrong NOC code can lead to application refusal and delay your chances of obtaining permanent residency. You are responsible for ensuring the correct NOC code selection and gathering the necessary supporting documentation.
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Considerations for Identifying the Correct NOC:
Sometimes, your work experience may align with multiple NOC codes, or your job title may not accurately reflect your work experience. It’s important to note that, for Canadian immigration purposes, your actual job title doesn’t determine your NOC code.
Instead, your work experience should correspond to the lead statement and main duties described in the NOC code. To accurately identify your NOC code, ensure that you have performed the majority of the duties and responsibilities listed in the NOC description.
Verifying Your NOC Code:
To identify the NOC code, go to the Government of Canada’s official NOC website, and select the 2021 Version.
This website enables you to search for your NOC and TEER Category (The training, education, experience and responsibilities) using the title or numeric code. This process will help you ensure the accuracy of your NOC code selection.
By understanding the different components of a NOC code and following the steps outlined in this article, you can verify if you have chosen the correct NOC code for your occupation. Paying careful attention to the job duties and lead statement will ensure alignment with your work experience.
Components of a NOC Code:
A NOC code typically comprises the following information:
1. NOC Code with Primary Name: This provides a unique code and primary name for the NOC, distinguishing it from other codes.
2. Lead Statement: The lead statement presents a brief summary of the primary purpose and nature of the occupation, giving an overview of what the job entails.
3. Example Titles: This section lists various job titles associated with the NOC code, providing an idea of the different titles falling under this occupation.
4. Main Duties: Here, you will find a detailed description of the main duties and responsibilities associated with the occupation, outlining the tasks typically performed.
5. Employment Requirements: This section outlines the necessary qualifications and requirements for the occupation, including educational background, work experience, and specific skills or certifications.
6. Additional Information: This part offers supplementary details or relevant information about the NOC code, providing further insights into the occupation.
7. Exclusions: The exclusions section specifies any occupations that are not covered by the particular NOC code, clarifying which job roles should not be included under this code.
Steps to Confirm Your NOC Code:
To ensure the accuracy of your NOC code selection, follow these steps:
1. Check the index of titles to see if your job title matches or closely relates to any listed titles. Remember that an exact match is not always necessary. If you find a match, it’s excellent. If not, but the title is somewhat relevant, it’s still good. If your title doesn’t match, but you believe it may be associated with your job, proceed to steps 2 and 3. Overall, steps 2 (reading the lead statement) and 3 (reviewing the main duties) are more important.
2. Lead Statement: Typically found at the beginning of the NOC code description, this statement provides a brief overview of the job, including major responsibilities and the sectors where it is commonly found and employed. It offers a quick summary of the occupation’s primary purpose and nature.
3. Main Duties: Compare the job duties described in your job reference letter with the main duties and responsibilities outlined in the NOC profile. While an exact word-to-word match isn’t required, the overall meaning and alignment should be evident.
4. Employment Requirements and additional information: Check for any mandatory qualifications or additional information in this section that may prevent you from selecting a specific NOC if you lack those qualifications, such as trade certificates.
Once you have thoroughly reviewed all the relevant information and determined that the majority of the job description and tasks align with the selected NOC, you can confirm that you have chosen the correct code.
Addressing Confusion and Seeking Professional Guidance:
If you are still confused or unsure about the correct NOC code, it is highly recommended to seek professional guidance. CICC’s licensed immigration consultants or Canadian immigration lawyers with expertise in the field can provide invaluable assistance in identifying the appropriate NOC code based on your job reference letter.
Their knowledge and experience in the immigration process will help clarify any confusion and ensure that you make an informed decision regarding your NOC code selection. Seeking professional guidance can significantly increase the accuracy and success of your Express Entry application.
