01. Open the official NOC 2021 matrix
Go to noc.esdc.gc.ca and use the search box. Search by job title, keyword, or TEER. Never rely on a third-party NOC lookup — IRCC officers use the ESDC catalogue.
How to find a NOC code for Canadian PR
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 is the system IRCC uses to decide whether your work experience counts toward Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and most other economic immigration pathways. This guide walks through exactly how to find a NOC code that matches your job — and how to confirm it before you submit.
Knowing your NOC code is only half the equation. IRCC doesn't ask what your code is — they ask whether your reference letter duties prove it. Most refusals at the eligibility stage aren't wrong NOC codes, they're correct codes (like your claimed NOC for PR applicants) with reference letters that don't back them up.
A NOC code that doesn't match your actual duties isn't just a paperwork issue — IRCC can treat it as misrepresentation, which carries consequences that go well beyond a single refused application.
Confirming your NOC code before you submit is a lot cheaper than correcting it after.
Educational information only, not legal advice. Consequences vary based on individual circumstances.
Real example: A Operations Analyst applicant claimed NOC 13100 but their reference letter described spreadsheet upkeep and meeting notes, not the administrative-officer duties in the NOC. Refused at the eligibility stage.
✓ 3,000+ NOC codes verified
02. Read the lead statement, not the title
Two jobs with identical titles can map to different NOC codes. Open each candidate code and read the lead statement — it summarizes the occupation in one paragraph.
03. Compare the main duties to your real work
Copy the 'Main duties' bullet list. Tick the ones you actually perform day-to-day at your current job. IRCC requires a 'substantial number' to match.
04. Verify the TEER and skill type
Confirm the NOC's TEER (0, 1, 2, or 3 for Express Entry) qualifies for the program you're applying to — CEC, FSW, FST, or your target PNP stream.
05. Score your match before you submit
Use Check My NOC to score your reference-letter duties against the NOC. A duty match below ~70% is a red flag — pick a closer NOC code or rewrite your reference letter.
Official sources
What IRCC actually checks
What surprises most applicants: IRCC officers compare your reference letter duty lines word-by-word against the official NOC duty list. Generic phrases like “managed projects” or “supported the team” fail this check every time.
IRCC refused 23% of Express Entry applicants at the eligibility stage. A $9.99 check is insurance against a $1,500+ mistake.
Found two NOC codes that both look right?
The Match + alternatives plan ranks them side by side against the official NOC 2021 main duties so you pick the stronger one — before you lock it into your Express Entry profile.
Check My NOCLast updated: June 2026