Starting the process of becoming a permanent resident of Canada is an exciting undertaking, and applicants for the Express Entry system must grasp the intricacies of the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Akkam Overseas will explore the influence of job experience in this blog, with a particular emphasis on how National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes affect CRS ratings.

The NOC 2021 codes provide each occupation in Canada a distinct identity and function as a categorization system. These codes are essential to many parts of the Express Entry process, even if they might not have a direct impact on the CRS score.

• Candidates may receive extra CRS points in regular Express Entry drawings according to their NOC. 
• Candidates having NOC codes under Major Group 00, which indicate arranged employment, have a substantial advantage with 200 more CRS points. 
• Fifty more points can improve a candidate’s CRS score if they have employment offers in different NOC codes (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3).

When considering category-based Express Entry drawings, it becomes even more important to comprehend the relevance of NOC codes. The five vocational areas that the Canadian government has designated for priority in 2023 are trades, healthcare, STEM, transportation, and agriculture/agri-food.

Through category-based draws, applicants with suitable job experience may be able to get immigration status under each of these categories, which correspond to certain NOC codes. The healthcare category includes, for example, massage therapists (NOC: 32201) and dentists (NOC: 31110), illustrating the complex relationship between NOC codes and eligibility in these targeted draws.

Furthermore, the story of the NOC code is further enhanced by the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). PNPs are used by provinces and territories to fill labor shortages in local labor markets, and they increase the attractiveness of applicants to local authorities who have particular job experience tagged with NOCs.

• Within the PNP, each province runs several streams that are geared for particular professions. 
• For instance, professions such as nurse assistants, transport truck drivers, and laborers/assistants in the construction trades are sought after by Ontario’s In-Demand Skills Stream. 
• Alberta’s Farm Stream targets farm workers, whereas British Columbia’s Healthcare Professional Category concentrates on professions including physicians, psychiatric nurses, and nurses.

Essentially, a candidate’s NOC turns into a useful advantage that increases their appeal to certain regions that are looking to fill certain skill needs. The effectiveness of a candidate’s immigration process through the PNP may be greatly impacted by this strategic fit between their NOC-coded knowledge and a province’s demands.

In summary, prospective immigrants must comprehend the significance of NOC codes as they negotiate the complex Express Entry system. In addition to having a direct effect on CRS scores, NOC codes also affect eligibility for standard and category-based draws and how appealing applicants are to provinces via the PNP. 

Think about the strategic advantage that a well-matched NOC code can offer to your Express Entry profile as you start your journey with Akkam Overseas; it might open doors to a new chapter in your life in Canada.