11202 NOC code — marketing specialist NOC for Express Entry

Here's what makes this trickier than it looks: in a lot of small companies, "Marketing Specialist" is really three or four jobs stitched together. You might be running paid campaigns, but also handling product launches, managing influencer relationships, or writing website copy. On paper that's 11202 — but if product decisions and go-to-market strategy are actually your day-to-day, you could be closer to 10022 (Advertising, Marketing and PR Managers) or even 20012 (Computer and information systems managers), a completely different TEER level with different point implications. There's no textbook version of this job to compare yourself against, which is exactly why a generic checklist doesn't work — it depends on where your actual hours go.

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 11202 for marketing specialists) 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 Marketing Specialist applicant claimed NOC 11202 but their reference letter described content posting and CRM updates, none of the strategy and campaign-development duties NOC 11202 requires. Refused at the eligibility stage.

At a glance

  • NOC 2021 code: 11202
  • Title: Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • TEER: 1
  • Eligible: FSW, CEC, most PNPs

Official main duties

  • Assist in product development and direct and evaluate the marketing strategies of establishments.
  • Develop, implement and evaluate communications strategies and programs designed to inform clients, employees and the general public of initiatives and policies.
  • Conduct public opinion and attitude surveys to identify the interests and concerns of key groups served by their organization.
  • Prepare or oversee preparation of reports, briefs, bibliographies, speeches, presentations, websites and press releases.
  • Develop and organize workshops, meetings, ceremonies and other events for publicity, fundraising and information purposes.
  • Prepare and deliver educational, publicity and information programs, materials and sessions.
  • Initiate and maintain contact with the media.
  • Co-ordinate special publicity events and promotions for internal and external audiences.

11202 vs 10022 — manager or specialist?

Ask yourself: do you have direct reports whose performance you manage, and do you set budgets and approve campaigns? If yes, NOC 10022 (TEER 0) likely fits. If you plan and execute campaigns yourself — even senior-level work like "Head of Growth" — NOC 11202 is usually the safer claim. See our primary NOC guide for hybrid roles.

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.

“Marketing Specialist” on your letter? Prove it.

Officers reclassify weak 11202 claims as 10022 (and reject them) every week. Score your duty match in 30 seconds — below 70% is meaningful refusal risk.

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FAQ

Is NOC 11202 the same as a Marketing Manager?
No. NOC 11202 covers Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations — specialists who plan and execute campaigns. People who supervise the marketing function and have direct reports usually fall under NOC 10022 (Advertising, marketing and PR managers), TEER 0.
Is NOC 11202 TEER 1?
Yes — NOC 11202 is TEER 1, eligible for FSW, CEC, and most PNP skilled-worker streams.
Does content marketing or social media work qualify for 11202?
Yes, if your reference letter describes you as planning campaigns, analysing market data, or advising on marketing strategy. Pure copywriting maps to NOC 51112 (Authors and writers).

Last updated: June 2026

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