Solving Labour Shortages in Key Canadian Sectors: New Permanent Residence Opportunities
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Addressing Canada’s Labour Needs
Immigration plays a vital role in enhancing both community well-being and economic growth. Recognizing this, the Canadian government is actively recruiting individuals whose skills can alleviate the country’s pressing labour shortages.
On November 16, 2022, in Ottawa, Minister Sean Fraser announced the introduction of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 for immigration pathways managed via the Express Entry system. This update aims to attract global expertise in critical sectors like health care, transportation, and construction.
Expanded Occupation List
The recent NOC changes now include 16 new occupations eligible for Express Entry, such as nurse aides, hospital attendants, and transport truck drivers. This expansion will offer more pathways to permanent residency for temporary workers and international students, supporting Canada’s commitment to meet labour demands.
Voices of Support
“We are leveraging every tool to address labour shortages, especially in pivotal sectors. These changes will bolster services and provide employers with reliable talent to propel economic growth. I’m delighted to announce new permanent residency pathways for these essential workers.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“NOC 2021 is a significant development for Canadian employers and newcomers. With these updates, we can better manage labour shortages and foster economic growth with a skilled, diverse workforce.”
– The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion
Industry Endorsements
“CANSWA welcomes this initiative to address the shortage of personal support workers, who are essential for providing critical care. We look forward to the contributions of new Canadians in this field.”
– Miranda Ferrier, CEO, Canadian Support Workers Association
“The trucking industry underpins every sector. Today’s announcement ensures our supply chains remain strong by opening up international workforce access to our industry.”
– Stephen Laskowski, President of Canadian Trucking Alliance
Essential Information
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) offers a framework for categorizing occupations across Canada, aiding in labour market analysis and employment program administration. It supports skills development, career planning, and employment equity initiatives.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada relies on NOC for assessing occupation eligibility in its residency programs.
Employment and Social Development Canada and Statistics Canada collaboratively update the NOC, with comprehensive reviews every decade. Public feedback informs these updates, ensuring alignment with evolving market needs.
Newly eligible occupations for Express Entry include:
- Payroll administrators
- Dental and dental laboratory assistants
- Nurse aides and patient service associates
- Pharmacy assistants
- School teacher assistants
- Sheriffs and bailiffs
- Correctional service officers
- Regulatory officers
- Estheticians and related roles
- Installers and servicers
- Pest controllers
- Repairers and servicers
- Transport truck drivers
- Bus and transit operators
- Heavy equipment operators
- Aircraft assemblers and inspectors
Related Resources
- National Occupational Classification 2021
- An Immigration Plan to Grow the Economy
- Easier access to permanent residence for physicians
- International students to help address labour shortages
Media Contacts
For media inquiries:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What is the National Occupational Classification (NOC)?
The NOC is Canada’s reference tool for organizing and categorizing occupations, essential for labour market analysis and employment program management.
Who benefits from the recent NOC update?
Sixteen new occupations are now eligible for permanent residency, benefiting temporary workers, international students, and Canadian employers in need of skilled labour.
How does the NOC update support the Canadian economy?
By addressing labour shortages in key sectors, the NOC update helps maintain strong supply chains and supports economic growth with a skilled workforce.
