
How to Determine Your NOC
https://youtu.be/FgxBxbHCWew?si=E-06Mgc_FHgQQ_f5 Minor NOC errors can result in major refusals. That’s why it’s critical to identify your correct NOC before applying. What is NOC? The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s standardized system for classifying jobs. Every job has a unique five-digit code that reflects: Job title Duties Industry Required education or training Examples: NOC 63200 means Cooks 65201 means Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers, and related support occupations Step 1: Understand the First Digit The first digit shows the broad occupational category: Digit Category Example 0 Management occupations Restaurant managers 1 Business, finance, and administration Accountants 2 Natural and applied sciences Technicians 3 Health occupations Nurses 4 Education, law, community services Teachers 5 Arts, culture, recreation, sport Musicians 6 Sales and service Retail salespersons 7 Trades, transport, equipment Electricians 8 Natural resources, agriculture Farmers 9 Manufacturing and utilities Factory workers Step 2: Check the Second Digit (TEER Level) The second digit shows the TEER (Training, Education, Experience, Responsibilities). TEER 0: Management jobs TEER 1: University degree jobs (e.g., doctors, accountants) TEER 2: College/technical diploma or apprenticeship (2+ years) TEER 3: College/apprenticeship (less than 2 years) TEER 4: High school or job-specific training TEER 5: No formal education required Example: NOC 63200 (Cook) → Second digit is “3,” meaning TEER 3 (college diploma/apprenticeship under 2 years). Step 3: Narrow Down With the Third, Fourth & Fifth Digits 3rd digit: Major group (broad field). 4th digit: Sub-major group (specialization). 5th digit: Unique occupation within the group. Example (Healthcare): 31300 → Nursing coordinators 31301 → Registered nurses 31302 → Nurse practitioners Example (Trades): 72300→ Plumber 72301→ Pipefitter Step 4: Read the Official NOC Profile Each NOC profile includes: Lead Statement (overview of the job) Main Duties (what you must perform in your role) Employment Requirements (education, training, certifications) Exclusions (similar jobs that don’t count under this NOC) Example: A Cook (63200) must prepare and cook complete meals. Jobs at Tim Hortons or McDonald’s do not qualify because they don’t meet this definition. Official NOC database: Cook NOC 63200 Chefs NOC 62200 Why Accuracy Matters Submitting the wrong NOC can lead to: Procedural fairness letters (PFL) Rejection of your application Potential misrepresentation issues To avoid these risks, book your first free in-person consultation with our immigration lawyer. We’ll help you identify the correct NOC and strengthen your application.