Many applicants in Canada are looking for TEER 0 and TEER 1 jobs because these roles, along with some TEER 2 and 3 occupations, are eligible to sponsor a spouse for an Open Work Permit (SOWP). However, there’s more to eligibility than just the job title. Understanding the nuances of TEER classifications and NOC alignment is critical to avoid refusals.
What Are TEER 0 & 1 Jobs?
TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities)
categories are used to classify Canadian occupations under the National
Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
TEER 0: Management jobs (e.g., general managers, department
managers)
TEER 1: Professional occupations that typically require a university degree
(e.g., engineers, accountants, IT professionals)
Why Job Title Alone Is Not Enough
A job title alone does not determine TEER eligibility. The
duties performed must align with the official NOC description. For example:
If you are a Store Manager, your duties should include:
Planning and directing operations, Conducting market research, Budgeting and
financial oversight. Duties such as selling products or performing customer
service do not qualify as management responsibilities and may jeopardize your
spouse’s Open Work Permit eligibility.
Common Reasons for SOWP Refusals
Many SOWP refusals occur due to incorrect NOC selection or
mismatched job duties, especially when:
● Job duties overlap
between two NOC codes
● Duties do not
reflect the official TEER classification of the role
Visa officers review applications carefully, and even small
inconsistencies can result in a refusal of spousal work permit eligibility.
Determining the right NOC is critical to ensure your spouse
qualifies for an Open Work Permit. Expert guidance can help you:
● Match your duties
with the official NOC description
● Verify the correct
TEER category
● Avoid common errors
that lead to refusals
If you are planning to sponsor your spouse through a TEER 0
or 1 job, professional guidance can make all the difference.
Book your first free in-person appointment with A&M
Canadian Immigration Law Corporation to:
● Verify your NOC and
TEER classification
● Align job duties
with official requirements
● Maximize the
likelihood of spousal work permit approval
A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation has extensive
experience helping applicants navigate TEER classifications, NOC selection, and
SOWP applications, ensuring your immigration process is smooth and compliant.





