The new NOC will change eligibility for some of Canada’s immigration programs including Express Entry. After the switch, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) which currently classifies work experience under NOC skill types 0, A or B will start using the new Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) system.
The change has been brought about to better address the specific labour shortages and needs of Canada’s economy by conducting targeted Express Entry draws beginning in 2023. These Express Entry draws will intentionally target candidates based on their occupation, language and/or education to find the Canadian in accordance with labour demand in Canada.
According to Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, the current Express Entry all-program draws do not satisfactorily help Canada bring in foreign nationals who best align with the country’s most in-demand skills and qualifications.
For the moment, IRCC will continue conducting Express Entry draws as usual. As early as Q1 2023, however, the Express Entry system will transition away from a focus on CRS scores and conduct draws that allow Canada to welcome immigrants that help the country better focus on addressing specific areas of labour market need and weakness.