NOC Guide — National Occupational Classification
NOC 2021 · 516 unit groups · Source: Statistics Canada
What is the NOC?
The NOC (National Occupational Classification) is Canada's official system for classifying all occupations. Each occupation gets a 5-digit code. NOC is used in every immigration program — Express Entry, PNPs, AIP — to determine if you qualify.
What is TEER?
The TEER (Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities) is the skill level required, from 0 (senior management) to 5 (basic manual labour). Express Entry accepts TEER 0, 1, 2 and 3. Many PNPs also accept TEER 4 and 5.
Your NOC is determined by your job duties, not your education level. If you work as a developer, analyst, nurse or technician — even without a university degree — your NOC may be TEER 1, 2 or 3, making you eligible for Express Entry. Education affects your CRS score, but does not block access to the federal pool. Official IRCC source →
TEER Levels & Eligibility
| TEER | Description | Express Entry | PNP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Management — senior executives, directors | ✓ | Some |
| 1 | University degree required | ✓ | Some |
| 2 | College diploma or apprenticeship (2+ years) | ✓ | Some |
| 3 | College diploma or apprenticeship (< 2 years) | ✓ | Some |
| 4 | High school diploma or on-the-job training | ✗ | Some |
| 5 | Short-term work demonstration or no formal requirements | ✗ | Some |
TEER 4 and 5 are not eligible for Express Entry
Express Entry requires at minimum TEER 3. Alternatives are Provincial PNPs and programs like AIP and RCIP.
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