What NOC code is a software developer?
Software developers and programmers are usually NOC 21232 (TEER 1). Software engineers and designers fall under NOC 21231. Duties, not job titles, decide the code.
Software developers and programmers are usually classified under NOC 21232 in the 2021 National Occupational Classification, at TEER 1. Software engineers and designers fall under NOC 21231, and web developers under NOC 21234. IRCC assesses the duties described in your reference letters, not your job title, so the correct code is the one whose lead statement and main duties match your actual work.
Key facts
| Software developers and programmers | NOC 21232 (TEER 1) |
|---|---|
| Software engineers and designers | NOC 21231 (TEER 1) |
| Web developers and programmers | NOC 21234 (TEER 1) |
| What decides the code | Main duties in your reference letter, not the job title |
| Why it matters | Program eligibility, category-based selection and provincial streams |
Who may qualify?
- Developers claiming skilled work experience under Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class
- Candidates checking whether their occupation appears in a current Express Entry category
- Candidates applying to provincial tech streams that list specific NOC codes
Eligibility requirements
- Reference letters listing duties, hours per week, dates and salary
- Duties that substantially match the NOC lead statement and main duties
- Consistency between the NOC claimed in the profile and the evidence supplied
How it works: step by step
- 1
Read the lead statement first
Compare your day-to-day duties against the NOC description rather than matching the title.
- 2
Compare neighbouring codes
21231, 21232 and 21234 overlap; choose the closest fit and be consistent.
- 3
Have letters written to the duties
Ask employers to describe duties in language that mirrors the NOC statement truthfully.
Expert insight
RCIC strategy consideration: refusals in tech profiles rarely come from picking a neighbouring code. They come from reference letters that list technologies instead of duties. A letter naming frameworks proves nothing about the NOC; a letter describing design, development and testing responsibilities does.
Alternative pathways
Frequently asked questions
Immigration programs, fees and processing times change frequently. This page is general information, not immigration advice. Verify current requirements with official Government of Canada sources or speak with our RCIC.