An In-Depth Guide to the Skilled Workers List: Unlocking Opportunities in Canada

Canada Skilled Workers List

Ever looked at the Great White North and thought, “I could really do with a slice of that maple syrup-drizzled life?” Well, you’re not alone. Many skilled individuals worldwide share your sentiment, dreaming of packing their bags and moving to Canada. But here’s the kicker: Canada might just be as eager to have you!

This article is your ticket to understanding Canada’s Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Skilled Workers List or National Occupational Classifications List (NOC). In a nutshell, these programs are Canada’s way of rolling out the red carpet for skilled foreign workers, like you, to address labor shortages in various industries. And if you’re wondering, “Do I have what it takes to make the cut?” keep reading as we decode the criteria and process, helping you realize your Canadian dream.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Skilled Workers List/National Occupational Classifications List (NOC)?

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is an initiative orchestrated by the Canadian government, aimed at drawing foreign workers with high-level skills to Canada. This program, a key component of the broader Express Entry system, plays a pivotal role in the handling of applications for permanent residency. It seeks to bridge the gap between the labor market’s demand and the availability of specific skills.

The potential candidates for the FSWP must satisfy a set of predefined criteria. This includes language proficiency, ensuring that immigrants can communicate seamlessly in their professional environment in Canada. The educational requirements are designed to confirm that applicants possess the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in their chosen fields.

Furthermore, work experience criteria have been set to ascertain the applicant’s practical understanding and expertise in their field. Age requirements, meanwhile, have been designed with a view to attract applicants who are in the prime of their career, hence capable of making substantial contributions to the Canadian economy.

Those who successfully navigate these requirements are then extended an invitation to apply for permanent residency. They may also stand a chance to earn additional points under the Comprehensive Ranking System, bolstering their prospects. The Skilled Workers List, in tandem with the FSWP, plays an instrumental role in addressing labor shortages across a variety of industries throughout Canada.

Unlocking the NOC List for Skilled Workers in Canada: Let’s Dive In!

Think of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) list as the ultimate LinkedIn of Canada, only with more maple leaves and fewer unsolicited connection requests. This extensive directory of job titles and descriptions, curated by the Canadian government, acts as a compass for both employers and skilled workers trying to navigate the bustling currents of Canada’s immigration system and job market.

The NOC list is as varied as a buffet at a global cuisine restaurant. It boasts a diverse range of occupations, from small equipment mechanics to destructive testers, and other niche professions that you probably didn’t even know existed. Aspiring immigrants need a job offer from a Canadian employer with a position that aligns with the NOC list, and their occupation must be classified under the skill levels of 0, A, or B.

The NOC list gets updates, ensuring it stays fresh, trendy, and in tune with the ever-evolving Canadian labor market. Economic analyses and policy considerations act as the guiding lights for these updates.

But wait, there’s more! Apart from job titles and descriptions, the NOC list also dishes out vital information like education requirements, experience levels, and necessary skills for each occupation. This makes the NOC list not just a directory, but a comprehensive guidebook, ensuring both employers and skilled workers understand what it takes to fill each role.

Canada’s Government updates the National Occupational Classification List every year. The list for 2022-2023 is now available. See it here:

TEER CategoryNOC CodeClass title
010010Financial managers
010011Human resources managers
010012Purchasing managers
010019Other administrative services managers
010020Insurance, real estate and financial brokerage managers
010021Banking, credit and other investment managers
010022Advertising, marketing and public relations managers
010029Other business services managers
010030Telecommunication carriers managers
111100Financial auditors and accountants
111101Financial and investment analysts
111102Financial advisors
111103Securities agents, investment dealers and brokers
111109Other financial officers
111200Human resources professionals
111201Professional occupations in business management consulting
111202Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
212010Supervisors, general office and administrative support workers
212011Supervisors, finance and insurance office workers
212012Supervisors, library, correspondence and related information workers
212013Supervisors, supply chain, tracking and scheduling coordination occupations
212100Executive assistants
212101Human resources and recruitment officers
212102Procurement and purchasing agents and officers
212103Conference and event planners
212104Employment insurance and revenue officers
212110Court reporters, medical transcriptionists and related occupations
212111Health information management occupations
212112Records management technicians
212113Statistical officers and related research support occupations
212200Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
212201Insurance adjusters and claims examiners
212202Insurance underwriters
212203Assessors, business valuators and appraisers
313100Administrative officers
313101Property administrators
313102Payroll administrators
313110Administrative assistants
313111Legal administrative assistants
313112Medical administrative assistants
313200Customs, ship and other brokers
313201Production and transportation logistics coordinators
414100General office support workers
414101Receptionists
414102Personnel clerks
414103Court clerks and related court services occupations
414110Survey interviewers and statistical clerks
414111Data entry clerks
414112Desktop publishing operators and related occupations
414200Accounting and related clerks
414201Banking, insurance and other financial clerks
414202Collection clerks
414300Library assistants and clerks
414301Correspondence, publication and regulatory clerks
414400Shippers and receivers
414401Storekeepers and partspersons
414402Production logistics workers
414403Purchasing and inventory control workers
414404Dispatchers
414405Transportation route and crew schedulers
020010Engineering managers
020011Architecture and science managers
020012Computer and information systems managers
121100Physicists and astronomers
121101Chemists
121102Geoscientists and oceanographers
121103Meteorologists and climatologists
121109Other professional occupations in physical sciences
121110Biologists and related scientists
121111Forestry professionals
121112Agricultural representatives, consultants and specialists
121120Public and environmental health and safety professionals
121200Architects
121201Landscape architects
121202Urban and land use planners
121203Land surveyors
121210Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries
121211Data scientists
121220Cybersecurity specialists
121221Business systems specialists
121222Information systems specialists
121223Database analysts and data administrators
121230Computer systems developers and programmers
121231Software engineers and designers
121232Software developers and programmers
121233Web designers
121234Web developers and programmers
121300Civil engineers
121301Mechanical engineers
121310Electrical and electronics engineers
121311Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
121320Chemical engineers
121321Industrial and manufacturing engineers
121322Metallurgical and materials engineers
121330Mining engineers
121331Geological engineers
121332Petroleum engineers
121390Aerospace engineers
121399Other professional engineers
222100Chemical technologists and technicians
222101Geological and mineral technologists and technicians
222110Biological technologists and technicians
222111Agricultural and fish products inspectors
222112Forestry technologists and technicians
222113Conservation and fishery officers
222114Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists
222210Architectural technologists and technicians
222211Industrial designers
222212Drafting technologists and technicians
222213Land survey technologists and technicians
222214Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
222220Computer network and web technicians
222221User support technicians
222222Information systems testing technicians
222230Non-destructive testers and inspectors
222231Engineering inspectors and regulatory officers
222232Occupational health and safety specialists
222233Construction inspectors
222300Civil engineering technologists and technicians
222301Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
222302Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians
222303Construction estimators
222310Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians
222311Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
222312Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics
222313Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors
030010Managers in health care
131100Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
131101Specialists in surgery
131102General practitioners and family physicians
131103Veterinarians
131110Dentists
131111Optometrists
131112Audiologists and speech-language pathologists
131120Pharmacists
131121Dietitians and nutritionists
131200Psychologists
131201Chiropractors
131202Physiotherapists
131203Occupational therapists
131204Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
131209Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating
131300Nursing coordinators and supervisors
131301Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
131302Nurse practitioners
131303Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals
232100Opticians
232101Licensed practical nurses
232102Paramedical occupations
232103Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists
232104Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians
232109Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
232110Denturists
232111Dental hygienists and dental therapists
232112Dental technologists and technicians
232120Medical laboratory technologists
232121Medical radiation technologists
232122Medical sonographers
232123Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists
232124Pharmacy technicians
232129Other medical technologists and technicians
232200Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists
232201Massage therapists
232209Other practitioners of natural healing
333100Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
333101Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations
333102Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
333103Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
333109Other assisting occupations in support of health services
040010Government managers – health and social policy development and program administration
040011Government managers – economic analysis, policy development and program administration
040012Government managers – education policy development and program administration
040019Other managers in public administration
040020Administrators – post-secondary education and vocational training
040021School principals and administrators of elementary and secondary education
040030Managers in social, community and correctional services
040040Commissioned police officers and related occupations in public protection services
040041Fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers
040042Commissioned officers of the Canadian Armed Forces
141100Judges
141101Lawyers and Quebec notaries
141200University professors and lecturers
141201Post-secondary teaching and research assistants
141210College and other vocational instructors
141220Secondary school teachers
141221Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
141300Social workers
141301Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies
141302Religious leaders
141310Police investigators and other investigative occupations
141311Probation and parole officers
141320Educational counsellors
141321Career development practitioners and career counsellors (except education)
141400Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
141401Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
141402Business development officers and market researchers and analysts
141403Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
141404Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
141405Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
141406Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers
141407Program officers unique to government
141409Other professional occupations in social science
242100Police officers (except commissioned)
242101Firefighters
242102Specialized members of the Canadian Armed Forces
242200Paralegals and related occupations
242201Social and community service workers
242202Early childhood educators and assistants
242203Instructors of persons with disabilities
242204Religion workers
343100Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants
343109Other instructors
343200Sheriffs and bailiffs
343201Correctional service officers
343202By-law enforcement and other regulatory officers
343203Border services, customs, and immigration officers
343204Operations members of the Canadian Armed Forces
444100Home child care providers
444101Home support workers, caregivers and related occupations
444200Primary combat members of the Canadian Armed Forces
545100Student monitors, crossing guards and related occupations
050010Library, archive, museum and art gallery managers
050011Managers – publishing, motion pictures, broadcasting and performing arts
050012Recreation, sports and fitness program and service directors
151100Librarians
151101Conservators and curators
151102Archivists
151110Editors
151111Authors and writers (except technical)
151112Technical writers
151113Journalists
151114Translators, terminologists and interpreters
151120Producers, directors, choreographers and related occupations
151121Conductors, composers and arrangers
151122Musicians and singers
252100Library and public archive technicians
252110Film and video camera operators
252111Graphic arts technicians
252112Broadcast technicians
252113Audio and video recording technicians
252114Announcers and other broadcasters
252119Other technical and coordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts
252120Graphic designers and illustrators
252121Interior designers and interior decorators
353100Registrars, restorers, interpreters and other occupations related to museum and art galleries
353110Photographers
353111Motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and performing arts assistants and operators
353120Dancers
353121Actors, comedians and circus performers
353122Painters, sculptors and other visual artists
353123Theatre, fashion, exhibit and other creative designers
353124Artisans and craftspersons
353125Patternmakers – textile, leather and fur products
353200Athletes
353201Coaches
353202Sports officials and referees
454100Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport and fitness
555109Other performers
060010Corporate sales managers
060020Retail and wholesale trade managers
060030Restaurant and food service managers
060031Accommodation service managers
060040Managers in customer and personal services
262010Retail sales supervisors
262020Food service supervisors
262021Executive housekeepers
262022Accommodation, travel, tourism and related services supervisors
262023Customer and information services supervisors
262024Cleaning supervisors
262029Other services supervisors
262100Technical sales specialists – wholesale trade
262101Retail and wholesale buyers
262200Chefs
262201Funeral directors and embalmers
262202Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers and related occupations
363100Insurance agents and brokers
363101Real estate agents and salespersons
363102Financial sales representatives
363200Cooks
363201Butchers – retail and wholesale
363202Bakers
363210Hairstylists and barbers
363211Estheticians, electrologists and related occupations
363220Shoe repairers and shoemakers
363221Upholsterers
464100Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers
464101Sales and account representatives – wholesale trade (non-technical)
464200Tailors, dressmakers, furriers and milliners
464201Image, social and other personal consultants
464300MaĂ®tres d’hĂ´tel and hosts/hostesses
464301Bartenders
464310Travel counsellors
464311Pursers and flight attendants
464312Airline ticket and service agents
464313Ground and water transport ticket agents, cargo service representatives and related clerks
464314Hotel front desk clerks
464320Tour and travel guides
464321Casino workers
464322Outdoor sport and recreational guides
464400Customer services representatives – financial institutions
464401Postal services representatives
464409Other customer and information services representatives
464410Security guards and related security service occupations
565100Cashiers
565101Service station attendants
565102Store shelf stockers, clerks and order fillers
565109Other sales related occupations
565200Food and beverage servers
565201Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
565202Meat cutters and fishmongers – retail and wholesale
565210Support occupations in accommodation, travel and facilities set-up services
565211Operators and attendants in amusement, recreation and sport
565220Pet groomers and animal care workers
565229Other support occupations in personal services
565310Light duty cleaners
565311Specialized cleaners
565312Janitors, caretakers and heavy-duty cleaners
565320Dry cleaning, laundry and related occupations
565329Other service support occupations
070010Construction managers
070011Home building and renovation managers
070012Facility operation and maintenance managers
070020Managers in transportation
070021Postal and courier services managers
272010Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations
272011Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations
272012Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades
272013Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
272014Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers
272020Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
272021Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews
272022Supervisors, printing and related occupations
272023Supervisors, railway transport operations
272024Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators
272025Supervisors, mail and message distribution occupations
272100Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
272101Tool and die makers
272102Sheet metal workers
272103Boilermakers
272104Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters
272105Ironworkers
272106Welders and related machine operators
272200Electricians (except industrial and power system)
272201Industrial electricians
272202Power system electricians
272203Electrical power line and cable workers
272204Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers
272205Telecommunications equipment installation and cable television service technicians
272300Plumbers
272301Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
272302Gas fitters
272310Carpenters
272311Cabinetmakers
272320Bricklayers
272321Insulators
272400Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
272401Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
272402Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
272403Railway carmen/women
272404Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
272405Machine fitters
272406Elevator constructors and mechanics
272410Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
272411Auto body collision, refinishing and glass technicians and damage repair estimators
272420Oil and solid fuel heating mechanics
272421Appliance servicers and repairers
272422Electrical mechanics
272423Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics
272429Other small engine and small equipment repairers
272500Crane operators
272501Water well drillers
272600Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors
272601Air traffic controllers and related occupations
272602Deck officers, water transport
272603Engineer officers, water transport
272604Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators
272999Other technical trades and related occupations
373100Concrete finishers
373101Tilesetters
373102Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers
373110Roofers and shinglers
373111Glaziers
373112Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
373113Floor covering installers
373200Residential and commercial installers and servicers
373201General building maintenance workers and building superintendents
373202Pest controllers and fumigators
373209Other repairers and servicers
373300Transport truck drivers
373301Bus drivers, subway operators and other transit operators
373310Railway and yard locomotive engineers
373311Railway conductors and brakemen/women
373400Heavy equipment operators
373401Printing press operators
373402Drillers and blasters – surface mining, quarrying and construction
474100Mail and parcel sorters and related occupations
474101Letter carriers
474102Couriers and messengers
474200Railway yard and track maintenance workers
474201Water transport deck and engine room crew
474202Air transport ramp attendants
474203Automotive and heavy truck and equipment parts installers and servicers
474204Utility maintenance workers
474205Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers
575100Longshore workers
575101Material handlers
575110Construction trades helpers and labourers
575119Other trades helpers and labourers
575200Taxi and limousine drivers and chauffeurs
575201Delivery service drivers and door-to-door distributors
575210Boat and cable ferry operators and related occupations
575211Railway and motor transport labourers
575212Public works and maintenance labourers
080010Managers in natural resources production and fishing
080020Managers in agriculture
080021Managers in horticulture
080022Managers in aquaculture
282010Supervisors, logging and forestry
282020Supervisors, mining and quarrying
282021Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services
282030Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors
282031Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services
383100Underground production and development miners
383101Oil and gas well drillers, servicers, testers and related workers
383110Logging machinery operators
383120Fishing masters and officers
383121Fishermen/women
484100Underground mine service and support workers
484101Oil and gas well drilling and related workers and services operators
484110Chain saw and skidder operators
484111Silviculture and forestry workers
484120Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators
484121Fishing vessel deckhands
585100Livestock labourers
585101Harvesting labourers
585102Aquaculture and marine harvest labourers
585103Nursery and greenhouse labourers
585104Trappers and hunters
585110Mine labourers
585111Oil and gas drilling, servicing and related labourers
585120Logging and forestry labourers
585121Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers
090010Manufacturing managers
090011Utilities managers
292010Supervisors, mineral and metal processing
292011Supervisors, petroleum, gas and chemical processing and utilities
292012Supervisors, food and beverage processing
292013Supervisors, plastic and rubber products manufacturing
292014Supervisors, forest products processing
292015Supervisors, textile, fabric, fur and leather products processing and manufacturing
292020Supervisors, motor vehicle assembling
292021Supervisors, electronics and electrical products manufacturing
292022Supervisors, furniture and fixtures manufacturing
292023Supervisors, other mechanical and metal products manufacturing
292024Supervisors, other products manufacturing and assembly
292100Power engineers and power systems operators
292101Water and waste treatment plant operators
393100Central control and process operators, mineral and metal processing
393101Central control and process operators, petroleum, gas and chemical processing
393102Pulping, papermaking and coating control operators
393200Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors
494100Machine operators, mineral and metal processing
494101Foundry workers
494102Glass forming and finishing machine operators and glass cutters
494103Concrete, clay and stone forming operators
494104Inspectors and testers, mineral and metal processing
494105Metalworking and forging machine operators
494106Machining tool operators
494107Machine operators of other metal products
494110Chemical plant machine operators
494111Plastics processing machine operators
494112Rubber processing machine operators and related workers
494120Sawmill machine operators
494121Pulp mill, papermaking and finishing machine operators
494122Paper converting machine operators
494123Lumber graders and other wood processing inspectors and graders
494124Woodworking machine operators
494129Other wood processing machine operators
494130Textile fibre and yarn, hide and pelt processing machine operators and workers
494131Weavers, knitters and other fabric making occupations
494132Industrial sewing machine operators
494133Inspectors and graders, textile, fabric, fur and leather products manufacturing
494140Process control and machine operators, food and beverage processing
494141Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers
494142Fish and seafood plant workers
494143Testers and graders, food and beverage processing
494150Plateless printing equipment operators
494151Camera, platemaking and other prepress occupations
494152Binding and finishing machine operators
494153Photographic and film processors
494200Motor vehicle assemblers, inspectors and testers
494201Electronics assemblers, fabricators, inspectors and testers
494202Assemblers and inspectors, electrical appliance, apparatus and equipment manufacturing
494203Assemblers, fabricators and inspectors, industrial electrical motors and transformers
494204Mechanical assemblers and inspectors
494205Machine operators and inspectors, electrical apparatus manufacturing
494210Furniture and fixture assemblers, finishers, refinishers and inspectors
494211Assemblers and inspectors of other wood products
494212Plastic products assemblers, finishers and inspectors
494213Industrial painters, coaters and metal finishing process operators
494219Other products assemblers, finishers and inspectors
595100Labourers in mineral and metal processing
595101Labourers in metal fabrication
595102Labourers in chemical products processing and utilities
595103Labourers in wood, pulp and paper processing
595104Labourers in rubber and plastic products manufacturing
595105Labourers in textile processing and cutting
595106Labourers in food and beverage processing
595107Labourers in fish and seafood processing
595109Other labourers in processing, manufacturing and utilities

For example, let’s consider small equipment mechanics. According to the NOC list, these professionals are tasked with the upkeep of small engines powering our daily necessities like lawn mowers, chainsaws, and snow blowers. They require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with vocational training or an apprenticeship program. Additionally, they need robust problem-solving skills and a working knowledge of electrical systems as required by the NOC list.

Another example would be destructive testers. According to the NOC list, destructive testers test materials using techniques that destroy them so that their properties can be measured accurately. They require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or physical sciences along with several years of experience working in materials testing laboratories.

As you can see from these examples, the NOC list provides detailed information about each occupation listed on it, making it easier for both employers and skilled workers to understand what qualifications are necessary for each occupation.

Who Qualifies as a Federal Skilled Worker?

The Federal Skilled Worker Program, a cornerstone of the Express Entry system introduced in 2015, is Canada’s invitation to skilled workers seeking to call this country home. Offering permanent immigration, it’s a beacon for those looking to make a mark in the Canadian landscape. Curious about eligibility?

You can check the full details on the Government of Canada website:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/eligibility/federal-skilled-workers.html

Minimum Requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program

Securing a spot in the Federal Skilled Worker Program isn’t a cakewalk. There are some non-negotiables: language proficiency, education, and work experience. Plus, you need to show you’ve got the funds to keep you and your family comfortable in Canada.

How much skilled work experience do I need?

Skilled work experience is defined by work in any of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories. And while the job title matters, so does what you did there. You must have performed the duties detailed in the lead statement of the occupational description in the NOC, including all essential duties and most of the main ones. Wondering what the different TEER categories are? You can find the full list [above] – and remember, your skilled work experience needs to be paid, recent, and substantial.

Your skilled work experience must be:

  • in the same type of job (have the same NOC) as the job you want to use for your immigration application (called your primary occupation)
  • within the last 10 years
  • paid work (have been paid wages or earned commission—volunteer work or unpaid internships don’t count)
  • at least 1 year of continuous work or 1,560 hours total (30 hours per week)—you can meet this in a few different ways:
    • full-time at 1 job: 30 hours/week for 12 months = 1 year full-time (1,560 hours)
    • equal amount in part-time work: for example 15 hours/week for 24 months = 1 year full time (1,560 hours)
      • You can work as many part-time jobs as you need to meet this requirement
    • full-time at more than 1 job: 30 hours/week for 12 months at more than 1 job = 1 year full time (1,560 hours)

If an applicant has work experience in an occupation that is not on the list they may still be eligible for immigration through other programs such as the Provincial Nominee Program or Express Entry system.

What language proficiency is required?

The program requires a minimum level of language proficiency in either English or French. The proof? An approved language test. You can learn more about the language requirements for skilled immigrants here.

What educational qualifications are necessary?

At a minimum, you should hold a high school diploma or an equivalent credential from a recognized institution. If you studied outside of Canada, you might need to get your credentials assessed to demonstrate their equivalence to Canadian standards. Learn about the Educational credential assessment (ECA) for Express Entry here.

Understanding the Points-Based System for Federal Skilled Workers

How are points awarded in the Federal Skilled Worker Program?

The program uses a points-based system to assess eligibility, looking at factors like age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability. Scoring at least 67 out of 100 points is usually necessary for eligibility.

How does age affect my eligibility?

You can earn up to 12 points based on your age. If you’re aged between 18 and 35, you’re in the prime spot for maximum points.

Adaptability: A Hidden Advantage?

Adaptability can give you an edge, with up to 10 points on offer for factors like having a spouse or common-law partner also applying for permanent residency, or having previous work or study experience in Canada.”

TEER / Skill Categorisation in the NOC List

The Old ‘Skill Level’ Grading System

For immigration purposes, the NOC system classifies jobs according to skill type and skill level. Prior to 2021, this categorisation was as follows:

  1. Skill Type 0 (zero): Management jobs. These are senior level management jobs across various industries and fields.
  2. Skill Level A: Jobs that usually require a degree from a university.
  3. Skill Level B: Jobs that usually require a college diploma, apprenticeship training, or specific vocational training.
  4. Skill Level C: Intermediate jobs which usually require high school and/or job-specific training.
  5. Skill Level D: Labor jobs that usually give on-the-job training.

This grading system has now been upgraded to a new TEER (Trading, Education, Experience and Responsibilities) grading system as of 2021.

How Does the New TEER Grading System Work?

This significant shift from the previous ‘Skill Level’ categories to the more comprehensive TEER categories brings a fresh perspective to evaluating occupational requirements, aiming to provide a more accurate and less misleading representation of job roles.

Let’s break down what the six TEER categories mean:

  1. TEER 0: This category is a direct replacement for the previous ‘Skill Type 0’ category. It pertains to management jobs, including those across various industries and fields, which often require significant experience and responsibilities.
  2. TEER 1: Corresponding to the former ‘Skill Level A’, this category generally encompasses jobs that require a university degree. The focus is on the education, training, and responsibilities associated with professional roles.
  3. TEER 2 and TEER 3: These two categories replace the previous ‘Skill Level B’. They likely represent a broad range of jobs that typically require a college diploma, apprenticeship, or specific vocational training. By splitting the former ‘Skill Level B’ into two categories, the TEER system can better differentiate between the varying levels of training, education, experience, and responsibilities within this skill level.
  4. TEER 4: This category takes the place of ‘Skill Level C’, encompassing jobs that usually require high school and/or job-specific training. The focus here is on intermediate roles that require a certain level of training and experience.
  5. TEER 5: Replacing ‘Skill Level D’, this category includes labor jobs that typically provide on-the-job training. It encapsulates roles with less formal education requirements but still necessitates a level of training, experience, and responsibility.

Which Jobs are in High Demand in Canada?

While the Federal Skilled Worker Program is open to a broad range of professionals, some roles are in particularly high demand in Canada. These include service contractors, platework fabricators, fitness program consultants, and drywall installers, all making significant contributions to Canada’s economy. These professions, along with many others, are part of the NOC system’s skill categories.

But what do these jobs entail? Service contractors provide essential maintenance services to buildings, platework fabricators manufacture metal plates for construction projects, fitness program consultants design personalized fitness programs, and drywall installers give structure to our buildings’ interiors.

What Else Matters Beyond Your Job?

While having a job in the NOC list is critical, other factors such as language proficiency, education level, and adaptability also play a significant role in determining eligibility. Mastering English or French, having a solid educational foundation, and demonstrating the potential for successful settlement in Canada are all important pieces of the puzzle.

How Does the Points System Work in the Federal Skilled Worker Program?

The Federal Skilled Worker Program operates on a points-based system, assessing candidates based on factors such as age, work experience, language proficiency, education level, and arranged employment in Canada. The magic number? A potential 100 points.

While all factors are essential, some carry significant weight. Age, for instance, reflects an applicant’s potential economic contribution over time, with those aged 18 to 35 scoring maximum points. Work experience in your qualifying occupation, language proficiency, and the level of education can also push your score higher.

Is There a Bonus for Having a Job Offer from a Canadian Employer?

The golden ticket? Arranged employment. If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer before your arrival, you’ll earn extra points.

From Permanent Residency to Citizenship: The Journey

Success in the Federal Skilled Worker Program brings with it the promise of permanent residency in Canada, offering benefits like access to healthcare, education, and social services. But the journey doesn’t end there. After living in Canada for three years, permanent residents can apply for Canadian citizenship, becoming part of the Canadian tapestry.”

Why is the National Occupational Classification (NOC) list so important?

When it comes to the Canadian labour market, the National Occupational Classification (NOC) is the secret sauce. It’s not just a bunch of codes and classifications; it’s a tool that provides a bird’s eye view of the employment landscape in Canada, helping identify trends, job vacancies, and skills shortages. Imagine having a secret decoder ring that can help you understand the often baffling world of job titles and skill requirements. That’s the NOC for you!

What’s in a NOC Code?

Let’s say you’re a whiz at coating control, a niche job that falls under the NOC code 93102. This code doesn’t just represent your specific role but also encompasses other related occupations in metalworking and surface finishing. It’s a way of grouping similar jobs based on their main duties and skill requirements. So, what’s in a NOC code? A lot more than you might think!

Why is NOC Crucial for Immigration to Canada?

Planning to migrate to Canada? Then you’ll want to become best friends with the NOC. To qualify for certain immigration programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs, your work experience in a specific NOC-listed occupation is a key requirement. Understanding your occupation’s NOC code is like having a roadmap that leads you straight to your eligibility status.

How Can NOC Codes Help Me Land a Job?

Picture this: you’re scrolling through countless job postings, trying to find one that matches your skills and experience. Sounds tiring, right? This is where the NOC system swoops in to save the day. Using your occupation’s NOC code as a keyword or filter can help you find relevant job openings in a jiffy. It’s like having a personalized job search engine at your fingertips!

Why Does NOC Matter for Public Policy?

The NOC system isn’t just about helping job seekers and potential immigrants. It’s also a powerful tool for policymakers, providing critical insights into the changing needs, trends, and challenges of the Canadian labour market. It plays a pivotal role in shaping public policies that foster a skilled workforce capable of meeting the country’s economic needs. So, in a way, NOC is also shaping the future of Canada’s labour market.

Navigating Canada’s Skilled Occupation List: A Handy Guide

Decoding the Categories on Canada’s Skilled Occupation List

Think of Canada’s Skilled Occupation List as a buffet of job opportunities, showcasing the most in-demand occupations in the country. It’s an ever-evolving list, refreshed regularly to mirror the changing job market and the country’s economic needs. The list is neatly divided into categories that cover diverse sectors, including management, finance, healthcare, and technology.

Management: Are You a Leader in the Making?

The management category is a treasure trove of opportunities for those with a knack for leadership. This segment includes roles like human resources managers, construction managers, engineering managers, financial services managers, and more. If steering teams towards success is your forte, this category is calling your name!

Finance: Got a Flair for Numbers?

If you’re someone who loves number-crunching and analyzing financial markets, the finance category is your playground. Here, you’ll find roles like accountants, auditors, financial analysts, investment bankers, and more. So, if your skills lie in analysis and you’re up-to-date with financial markets, you know where to look!

Healthcare: Ready to Make a Difference?

Healthcare is a sector that never goes out of demand, and Canada is no exception. The healthcare category enlists professionals like doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and more. So, if you have specialized education and training in any of these fields, the Canadian healthcare sector might be your next stop!

Technology: Are You a Techie at Heart?

The technology category is a hotspot for tech enthusiasts, offering roles like software developers, computer programmers, network administrators, and more. If you can code your way out of a paper bag and have a solid understanding of programming languages, this category is your sweet spot!

How Does the Skilled Occupation List Connect Job Seekers and Employers in Canada?

The Skilled Occupation List is more than just a list – it’s a vital matchmaking tool for employers and job seekers in Canada. If you’re an employer on the hunt for a software developer, this list can help identify potential candidates with the right experience, saving you time and resources. And if you’re a nurse looking for opportunities in Canada, the list can help you find jobs that match your skill set, boosting your chances of landing a job in your field once you immigrate.

Canada’s Job Market: A Goldmine for Skilled Workers

As a country that holds skilled workers in high esteem, Canada brims with opportunities for those with the right qualifications and experience. The demand for skilled workers cuts across technical, professional, and related occupations, including management, construction trades, electrical trades, and service technicians.

Work Experience: A Golden Ticket to Canada?

Work experience isn’t just crucial; it’s one of the key criteria the Canadian government uses to assess potential immigrants. The more work experience you have in your field, the better your chances of being selected for immigration.

Which Occupations are In-Demand in Canada?

Think technicians, technologists, engineering technologists, specialists, and engineers – these occupations are hot in Canada. They require specialized skills and knowledge that are in demand across various industries. For example, engineering technologists, who design and develop new products or improve existing ones, work hand-in-hand with engineers to meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Skilled workers can explore job opportunities across different sectors in Canada. Those with a knack for technical occupations can find roles in IT, healthcare technology management, or industrial automation, while those with expertise in project management or business analysis are in demand across sectors.

And let’s not forget trades-related occupations. Tradespeople like electricians and plumbers are always needed, no matter the economic climate.

What does Statistics Canada Say about Job Vacancies?

According to Statistics Canada’s 2021 Labour Force Survey, during Q4 2020, “Management occupations had the highest number of job vacancies at 65k, followed by trades-related jobs at 59k”. So, if you’re in management or a trades-related job, Canada’s job market is looking promising for you!

Express Entry Eligibility for Federal Skilled Workers

Express Entry is a system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. The system is designed to facilitate the immigration process and make it more efficient for both applicants and the government. One of the categories of skilled workers who can apply for permanent residence through Express Entry are Federal Skilled Workers.

Federal Skilled Workers are eligible to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry if they meet the minimum requirements for education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability previously mentioned in this article.

Your Ultimate Guide to the Skilled Workers List in Canada

As we wrap up, let’s revisit why the Skilled Workers List in Canada is a powerful tool for potential immigrants. It offers a thorough list of in-demand occupations, helping you determine if you’re eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program.

Understanding the National Occupation Classification (NOC) is equally crucial. It categorizes jobs based on skill level and type, guiding you to see if your occupation makes the cut for immigration eligibility.

Remember, the Skilled Workers List isn’t set in stone. It evolves annually to keep pace with Canada’s changing economic needs. So, staying updated with these changes can be the key to unlocking new opportunities or requirements.

For those who make the grade, Express Entry is a fantastic path to explore. It promises quicker processing times and boosts your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

For a more visual guide, check out the Canadian Government’s video guide below, or delve deeper into their main skilled immigration programs here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada.html

We’re rooting for your successful application and would be thrilled to assist you in your journey to Canada.

At 1st Move International we offer weekly shipping and fully insured international removals services from the UK to Canada. Just click the link for more information or get a free quote on our website today.


About 1st Move International

1st Move International are a specialist international moving and shipping company offering packing, shipping and insurance for shipping household goods and personal effects overseas. We have a global reach covering over 80 countries and 6500 worldwide destinations. You can get an international removals quote here or find more information on our international removals UK to Canada service here.

Avatar for Mike Harvey
As the Managing Director of 1st Move International, Mike Harvey brings more than two decades of logistics expertise and three years of specialised experience in international relocations to his role. His comprehensive knowledge spans the intricacies of overseas shipping, secondary yet crucial areas such as visa application processes and immigration requirements, and the wider topic of moving abroad including topics such as comparative analyses of cost of living, healthcare and educational systems worldwide. This expertise allows 1st Move International to equip people with the information they need to not just move overseas, but to make informed decisions about whether, and where, to relocate.