Canada boasts a significant portion of its adult population with college degrees, nearly 30%. However, this statistic highlights that there are numerous opportunities available in industries and positions that do not require formal education, ranging from trades to semi-skilled jobs. If you’re considering moving to Canada, understanding the immigration options in Canada is essential.
The National Occupation Classification System
Canadian immigration utilizes the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system to categorize the thousands of different occupations relevant to various immigration programs. These occupations are divided into four categories based on the type of training required for each job:
| National Occupations Category | |
|---|---|
| Category | Occupation |
| A | managerial and professional jobs that require a minimum of three years of formal training, ie a university degree |
| B | skilled occupations that require formal training ie trades workers |
| C | occupations that require a high school diploma and on-the-job training ie general workers |
| D | occupations that require a high school diploma and on the job training ie general workers |
Immigration Options
The Express Entry system includes a dedicated immigration stream for all occupations classified under category B of the NOC: the skilled trades program. To qualify for this program, you must be a certified tradesperson and have at least two years of experience in your profession. With the assistance of a regulated immigration consultant, you could become a permanent resident of Canada in as little as six months through this program.
Atlantic Immigration Pilot
If your occupation falls under categories B or C of the NOC, the provinces of Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia are eager to welcome you. These four Atlantic provinces are looking to enhance their workforce across all sectors. The semi-skilled worker program allows foreigners with job vacancies listed in categories B and C of the NOC to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Under this immigration pilot project, your NOC classification is not a barrier. All you need to do is secure a job in one of the participating communities, and that community will support your application for permanent residence with the Canadian government.
By understanding the immigration options in Canada and the NOC system, you can better navigate your path to becoming a permanent resident and take advantage of the diverse opportunities available in the Canadian job market.