Truck Drivers and Other Occupations Are Now Eligible for Express Entry!

On November 16, 2022, IRCC officially switched to their new NOC 2021 system to classify occupations by category type. In the old NOC 2016 system, occupations were classified by skill type 0, A, B, C and D and each occupation was a 4-digit code. Previously, occupations which fell under NOC 0, A or B were considered skilled occupations and were thus eligible for Express Entry through the Federal Skilled Worker Program. A qualified candidate could apply for permanent residence through this program. NOC C and D occupations were not eligible.

The new NOC 2021 system consists of TEER categories 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The NOC codes are 5-digits. Now, occupations are classified by TEER category instead of skill type. For the Federal Skilled Worker Program, almost all occupations which fall under TEER category 0, 1, 2 and 3 are eligible.

Most occupations were unaffected by this change. However, some occupations which were classified as NOC C in the NOC 2016 system are now in the TEER 3 category. For this reason, these occupations were previously ineligible for Express Entry, but now they are!

The new occupations which are eligible for Express Entry include the following:

Some occupations which were eligible for Express Entry in the NOC 2016 are now ineligible. These occupations include:

One of the most significant occupations added to the list above is transport truck drivers. With the switch to the new NOC 2021 system, transport truck drivers are eligible to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry as long as they meet the other requirements.

Regardless of whether you are eligible for Express Entry or not, Canada has a vast selection of temporary residence and permanent residence pathways. It is important to consult a licensed immigration representative to find out which option is best for you.

If you have any questions about coming to Canada, feel free to book a consultation by clicking the image below or visit the IRCC website.