Maple News reports that selecting the correct primary National Occupational Classification (NOC) code is a critical step for immigrants applying to Canada’s Express Entry system. The primary NOC you choose not only influences your eligibility for key federal immigration programs but can also improve—or hinder—your chances of receiving a nomination through one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.
Under the Express Entry system, skilled workers create online profiles and are ranked through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). One of the core fields in the profile is the ‘primary NOC code,’ which must align with your main occupation and employment history. Getting this wrong can lead to missed opportunities, refusals, or even allegations of misrepresentation.
According to Maple News, candidates are required to select a primary NOC that accurately reflects the skilled job they are using to qualify—along with proof of employment duties matching that NOC’s description. Mistakes, such as selecting a closely related but incorrect code, can disqualify applicants from specific streams, particularly those with strict criteria such as the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) or Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
For example, an individual with experience as a chef (NOC 62200) who mistakenly selects the cook NOC (62300) may inadvertently disqualify themselves from the FSTP, as these roles have different requirements and are considered separate occupations by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
To qualify for the FSTP, candidates must demonstrate at least two years of full-time work experience in specific NOC groups—Major Groups 72, 73, 82, 83, 92, and 93 (excluding Sub-Major Groups 726 and 932), Minor Group 6320, or Unit Group 62200. A mismatch here may lead to a rejection or an accusation of misrepresentation, both of which can have long-term implications for future immigration applications.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program also requires that candidates have a minimum of one continuous year of work experience in their selected primary occupation. If that experience doesn’t match the responsibilities listed in the chosen NOC, the candidate may be found ineligible when submitting their application after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Maple News advises that Express Entry candidates conduct thorough research and ensure their job experience aligns precisely with a valid NOC code before submitting their profile. Consulting immigration professionals or using government resources can further help in avoiding costly mistakes.
In Canada’s competitive immigration landscape, clarity, precision, and careful planning make all the difference. Choosing the correct NOC code isn’t just a technicality—it’s a determining factor in your path to permanent residency.