Architect NOC code
NOC 2021 code, TEER level and Express Entry status for architect.
Last reviewed 2026-11-02 · Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Quick answer
The NOC code for architect is 21200 (Architects), a TEER 1 occupation — it counts as skilled work for Express Entry. It's a high-wage occupation (Level 3): +20 CRS for 12+ months of Canadian work, or 50 for a job offer.
NOC code
21200
TEER 1 · skilled
High-wage
Level 3
+20 work · 50 job offer
Category draws
None
IRCC 2026 lists
What NOC 21200 covers
Architects conceptualize, plan and develop designs for the construction and renovation of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. They are employed by architectural firms, private corporations and governments, or they may be self-employed.
| Unit group | 21200 — Architects |
|---|---|
| TEER | TEER 1 — usually requires a university degree |
| Broad category | Natural and applied sciences and related occupations |
Main duties to compare with yours
- Consult with clients to determine the type, style and purpose of renovations or new building construction being considered
- Conceptualize and design buildings and develop plans describing design specifications, building materials, costs and construction schedules
- Prepare sketches and models for clients
- Prepare or supervise the preparation of drawings, specifications and other construction documents for use by contractors and tradespersons
- Prepare bidding documents, participate in contract negotiations and award construction contracts
- Monitor activities on construction sites to ensure compliance with specifications
To use NOC 21200 on an Express Entry profile or reference letter, your duties should match the lead statement and most of the main duties. See every duty and the full Express Entry breakdown for NOC 21200 →
Other job titles under NOC 21200
- Architectural standards specialist
- Chief architect
- Consulting architect
- Residential architect
- Industrial and commercial buildings architect
Similar titles in other NOC codes
If your duties don't match NOC 21200, one of these may fit better:
- Application architect — NOC 21231 (Software engineers and designers, TEER 1)
- Cloud solutions architect manager — NOC 20012 (Computer and information systems managers, TEER 0)
- Database architect — NOC 21223 (Database analysts and data administrators, TEER 1)
- Hardware technical architect — NOC 21311 (Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers), TEER 1)
- Landscape architect — NOC 21201 (Landscape architects, TEER 1)
- Naval architect — NOC 21399 (Other professional engineers, TEER 1)
- Senior landscape architect — NOC 21201 (Landscape architects, TEER 1)
- Software architect — NOC 21231 (Software engineers and designers, TEER 1)
Calculate your CRS score → · All job titles A–Z · High-wage list
Sources: Statistics Canada, NOC 2021 Version 1.0 (example titles and duties); IRCC high-wage occupations and category-based selection lists. Check the official NOC site before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NOC code for architect?+
In NOC 2021, "architect" is an example title in unit group 21200 — Architects. It is a TEER 1 occupation in the "Natural and applied sciences and related occupations" broad category.
Is architect eligible for Express Entry?+
NOC 21200 is TEER 1, which IRCC counts as skilled work experience for the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class — provided your actual duties match the NOC description and you meet every other program requirement.
Does architect get extra CRS points?+
Yes. NOC 21200 is on IRCC's high-wage list at Level 3. From November 3, 2026, 12+ months of qualifying Canadian work adds 20 CRS points, or a valid job offer is worth 50 (whichever is higher).
Can a architect get a category-based Express Entry invitation?+
NOC 21200 isn't on any of IRCC's current category-based selection lists. You can still be invited in general, Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program rounds.
What if my job title says architect but my duties are different?+
IRCC assesses your duties, not your job title. Compare what you actually do with the lead statement and main duties of NOC 21200. If most of them don't match, look at the related occupations below or search the official NOC site.