Canada Set to Transform the NOC System in 2022

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a key element of the Canadian immigration system. It is the country’s national reference for occupations and helps in the immigration process of skilled workers and temporary foreign workers.

Role of NOC

IRCC used the NOC system to divide employment activities in Canada into various categories so as to get a clear picture of the country’s labour market, organize skills development program, and conduct important immigration research. The NOC is crucial when it comes to managing immigration and foreign worker programs. Usually, temporary foreign workers and skilled worker candidates have to prove their work experience according to NOC requirements of whichever program they are applying to. 

New changes

The federal government revises the NOC system every ten years to adapt to the changes in the labor market and the Canadian economy. Statistics Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has hence introduced NOC 2021 which will change the system altogether. The changes are expected to take place in late 2022. This is because the federal government wants immigration applicants and stakeholders to learn more about the NOC 2021 and its effects before the implementation.

NOC 2021 was created after extended research, analysis, and evaluation of the Canadian economy. It will introduce a new six-category system based on the level of Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) required to enter a particular occupation. NOC 2021 will categorize occupations with the help of a five-tier hierarchical system.