Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2026 Revision

Last Updated On 15 January 2026, 9:49 AM EST (Toronto Time)

Canada’s National Occupational Classification, commonly known as NOC, is a crucial reference manual that impacts various aspects of labor market reporting and government program design. It plays a significant role in how employers recruit, provinces target workers, and immigration pathways assess work experience.

The upcoming NOC 2026 revision is not just a routine update; it has been labeled a major revision, involving content updates and structural changes to the classification itself. This article delves into the significance of NOC 2026, highlighting the changes, revisions, and implications for immigration applicants.

What Is The National Occupational Classification?

 

The NOC serves as Canada’s national standard for occupations, categorizing jobs based on tasks and qualifications required. It facilitates labor market data collection, workforce planning, career development, program administration, and policy analysis. For immigration purposes, aligning work experience with a NOC code is essential across economic pathways.

Why NOC 2026 Is Remarkable

 

Unlike past updates, NOC 2026 is a major revision occurring sooner than expected. The objective is to adapt to changing roles, clarify distinctions between occupations, and update outdated descriptions. Notably, over 150 unit groups are being updated, with 18 experiencing real structural changes.

NOC 2026 Changes Overview

• • Over 150 unit groups undergoing updates

• • 165 unit groups impacted by changes

• • 18 unit groups facing structural alterations

Understanding NOC Building Blocks

The NOC comprises Broad Occupational Categories (BOCs), TEER Levels, and Unit Groups. BOCs categorize occupations based on work type, field of study, and industry, while TEER levels indicate qualifications and responsibilities. Unit groups, the most detailed level, are crucial for coding and immigration matching.

Types of Changes in NOC 2026

NOC 2026 introduces two main types of changes: real changes, involving structural modifications, and content-only changes, impacting duties and requirements. These revisions are vital for individuals navigating the immigration process and aligning with NOC codes.