National Occupational Classification: A Prerequisite for Exploring Job Opportunities in Canada
There are a series of steps to be observed in order to achieve the goal of working abroad. Certain basic requirements must be fulfilled before commencing the immigration process or applying for international jobs. For immigration to Canada, these requirements may include obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment report, undergoing an English language proficiency examination, and identifying the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the applicant. The NOC is a key requirement to pursue job opportunities in Canada.
The NOC classifies all the occupations in Canada based on the skill level and qualifications required for that job. It also provides detailed information regarding the job duties and work performed by people who practice particular occupations in Canada. Each occupation has a corresponding numerical NOC code.
It is necessary for a job seeker to first identify which occupation their job falls under, and then verify that the main duties listed under the relevant NOC code match the tasks performed by them in their primary occupation. The primary occupation is the job that the applicant intends to pursue in Canada, and has sufficient work experience in.
A candidate can identify their NOC code by searching for their job title in the table provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. If the job duties do not match, then the candidate can search for a more accurate job title. After selecting the correct job title, the aspirant must note down the corresponding NOC code, title and Skill Level or Type mentioned in the table.
Canadian employers use the NOC to recruit eligible foreign workers to fill job vacancies that require a specific skill set, educational qualification or training. While conducting a Canada job search, the NOC code must be provided to ensure that the applicant’s profile, skills and work experience match the job description. The NOC essentially indicates the extent to which a candidate is suitable for a particular job.
Occupations are broadly divided into five categories:
- Skill Type 0 (Zero): Management jobs that require a high level of skill and training. For instance – Engineering managers, Financial managers, Shore captains (fishing), etc.
- Skill Level A: Professional jobs that typically require a university degree to indicate qualification in the field. For instance – Doctors, Architects, Financial auditors and accountants, etc.
- Skill Level B: Skilled trades and technical jobs that typically require apprenticeship training or a college diploma. For instance – Chefs, Executive assistants, Electrical mechanics, etc.
- Skill Level C: Intermediate jobs that typically require high-school graduation and/or job-specific training. For instance – Long-haul truck drivers, General farm workers, Tour and travel guides, etc.
- Skill Level D: Labor jobs that typically involve on-the-job training. For instance – Laborers in textile processing, Mine laborers, Janitors, etc.
A candidate who submits their application with an incorrect NOC code will face hurdles in the process of seeking overseas jobs, and in the visa or work permit process they choose to pursue.
Job seekers who wish to enter Canada as skilled immigrants through the Express Entry System should have relevant work experience in a job listed under NOC Skill Type 0 or Skill Level A or B.
To immigrate through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, the job and work experience should be in NOC Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A, B or C.
Those whose job and work experience falls under NOC Skill Level C or D may be eligible for the Provincial Nominee Program, or the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, or a temporary work permit.
Identifying the correct NOC is a crucial specification for exploring job opportunities in Canada. By fulfilling this essential requirement at the initial stage, job seekers can target employers who require their specific skills and expertise, thus enhancing their chances for success.