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NOC 21232 is the Canadian National Occupational Classification code for Software developers and programmers. It is classified TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree, which meets the skill requirement for Express Entry. An officer decides whether you can claim this code by comparing the duties written in your reference letter against the official main duties below — not by your job title.
Classification
Natural & applied sciences
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Definition
Software developers and programmers design, write, and test code for new systems and software to ensure efficiency. They create the foundations for operative systems and run diagnostic programs to certify effectiveness. They are employed in computer software, computer and video game development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the public and private sectors.
Main duties
Example job titles
Overview
Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, NOC 21232 classifies "Software developers and programmers." This TEER 1 occupation includes professionals who write, modify, integrate, and test computer code for software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software, and communications software. Key duties under this classification include identifying technical requirements, preparing logical and physical specifications, and designing, writing, and testing code.
Candidates seeking Canadian permanent residency under NOC 21232 can leverage several economic immigration pathways. As a TEER 1 occupation, it is eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system. Furthermore, because of its alignment with technology sectors, candidates under this code frequently qualify for targeted Category-Based Selection draws focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) professions, as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) like the BC PNP Tech or Ontario Tech Draws.
To qualify for immigration under this code, applicants must meet the educational and experience requirements outlined by the ESDC, which typically includes a bachelor's degree in computer science or another discipline with a significant programming component, or completion of a college program in computer science.
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Commonly confused codes
Yes — Software developers and programmers is TEER 1, and TEER 0–3 occupations meet the skill-level requirement for Express Entry programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class. Full eligibility also depends on your work experience, language results and other program criteria.
Software developers and programmers is classified as TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree. Always confirm the exact employment requirements on the official NOC profile before relying on them.
Applicants most often mix up 21232 with 21230 (Computer systems developers and programmers). If your real day-to-day duties fit one of those codes better, that mismatch is exactly what an officer flags — double-check before you submit.
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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.