IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Canadian government recently announced that it will soon transition to the 2021 National Occupational Classification system.

Key Points:

  • Canadian authorities will transition to the 2021 NOC system on Nov. 16. This means:
    • The current 2016 NOC skill type and skill level structure (NOC 0, A, B, C and D) will be replaced with a six-category system, representing the training, education, experience and responsibilities (TEER) needed to work in an occupation.
    • Four-digit occupation codes will become five-digit codes.
    • The eligibility criteria for all programs that use NOC will be updated.
  • The TEER categories and examples of jobs are as follows:
TEER Occupation types: Examples:
TEER 0 Management occupations Advertising, marketing and public relations managers
Financial managers
TEER 1 Occupations that usually require a university degree Financial advisors
Software engineers
TEER 2 Occupations that usually require a college diploma, apprenticeship training of two or more years, or supervisory occupations Computer network and web technicians
Medical laboratory technologists
TEER 3 Occupations that usually require a college diploma, apprenticeship training of less than two years or more than six months of on-the-job training Bakers
Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
TEER 4 Occupations that usually require a high school diploma or several weeks of on-the-job training Home child care providers
Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers
TEER 5 Occupations that usually need short-term work demonstration and no formal education Landscaping and grounds maintenance laborers
Delivery service drivers and door-to-door distributors

Additional Information: The transition to the 2021 NOC system may affect prevailing wages for various occupations; however, Canadian authorities have yet to announce these changes.

BAL Analysis: The 2021 NOC system is expected to affect those applying through permanent residence and temporary work permit programs, including Express Entry, the Atlantic Immigration Program and the Provincial Nominee Program, among others. Those affected by the transition to the 2021 NOC system change should note the updated eligibility requirements to avoid possible complications and/or delays. BAL will provide more information on the transition to the 2021 NOC and the impact it may have on prevailing wages when it becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2022 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.