Optometrist NOC code
NOC 2021 code, TEER level and Express Entry status for optometrist.
Last reviewed 2026-11-02 · Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Quick answer
The NOC code for optometrist is 31111 (Optometrists), a TEER 1 occupation — it counts as skilled work for Express Entry. It's eligible for Healthcare category draws.
NOC code
31111
TEER 1 · skilled
High-wage
Not listed
No extra CRS points
Category draws
Healthcare
IRCC 2026 lists
What NOC 31111 covers
Optometrists examine eyes to assess and diagnose ocular diseases and disorders. They prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses and recommend treatments such as exercises to correct vision problems or ocular disorders. They work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, community health centres, rehabilitation centres, the optical industry, government and universities.
| Unit group | 31111 — Optometrists |
|---|---|
| TEER | TEER 1 — usually requires a university degree |
| Broad category | Health occupations |
Main duties to compare with yours
- Examine patients' eyes, conduct tests and use ophthalmoscopes, biomicroscopes and other specialized instruments to determine ocular health and visual efficiency
- Prescribe and provide treatment (excluding surgery) to maintain, improve and correct vision and manage other ocular diseases and disorders
- Prescribe, dispense and fit eyeglasses, contact lenses and other visual aids
- Educate, counsel and advise patients on contact lens use and care, ocular hygiene, surgical and non-surgical options, and preventive care and maintenance related to occupation and lifestyle
- Refer patients to ophthalmologists or other physicians and surgeons for treatment of ocular diseases or conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration and systemic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
- Collaborate with ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals to provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing eye surgeries such as laser vision correction
To use NOC 31111 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 31111 →
Other job titles under NOC 31111
- Doctor of optometry (OD)
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 optometrist?+
In NOC 2021, "optometrist" is an example title in unit group 31111 — Optometrists. It is a TEER 1 occupation in the "Health occupations" broad category.
Is optometrist eligible for Express Entry?+
NOC 31111 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 optometrist get extra CRS points?+
NOC 31111 isn't on IRCC's high-wage list, so there are no extra high-wage or job offer points. Canadian work-length points still apply for TEER 0–3 work.
Can a optometrist get a category-based Express Entry invitation?+
Yes — NOC 31111 is on IRCC's list for Healthcare and Social Services Occupations, 2026-Version 3. You generally need have accumulated, within the past 3 years, at least 12 months of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time experience) — this experience does not need to be continuous.
What if my job title says optometrist 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 31111. If most of them don't match, look at the related occupations below or search the official NOC site.