53123

Theatre, fashion, exhibit and other creative designers

TEER 3 — College diploma, shorter apprenticeship or 6+ months training

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Art, culture, recreation & sport

5 › 53 › 531 › 5312

Definition

Theatre, fashion, exhibit and other creative designers conceptualize and produce designs for film, television, theatre and video productions, garments and textiles, displays and exhibits, and for other creative items such as jewellery and trophies. Theatre designers are employed by performing arts and broadcasting companies and by festivals; fashion designers are employed by clothing and textile companies or may be self-employed; and exhibit designers are employed by museums. Other creative designers in this unit group are employed by manufacturing establishments or may be self-employed.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Theatre designers
Design and create settings, scenic environments, properties, costumes and lighting for theatre, film and video productions, operas and ballets.
Fashion designers
Design and create clothing and accessories for men, women and children.
Exhibit designers
Plan and develop permanent and temporary or moveable exhibits and displays for museum exhibitions, trade shows, conventions and other exhibitions.
Theatre designers may specialize in costume, lighting or set design; fashion designers may specialize in men's, women's or children's apparel or in different lines such as sportswear, footwear or formal wear.

Example job titles

•clothing designer
•costume designer
•couturier - haute couture
•fabric designer
•fashion designer
•fur designer
•jewellery designer
•lighting designer

Overview

Under the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, NOC 53123 encompasses theatre, fashion, exhibit, and other creative designers. This TEER 3 occupation category includes professionals who conceptualize and create designs for theatrical, film, and television productions, fashion apparel and accessories, trade shows, museum exhibits, and commercial displays. Typical job titles falling under this classification include fashion designer, costume designer, set designer, and window display designer. These specialists may work as independent consultants or be employed by retail establishments, performing arts companies, design firms, or production studios.

To meet the employment requirements for NOC 53123, candidates typically require a university degree or college diploma in fine arts, fashion design, or a related discipline. Additionally, a strong portfolio of work demonstrating creative ability and technical skill is essential. Because this is classified as a TEER 3 occupation, foreign nationals with experience in this code may qualify for economic immigration pathways to Canada, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program through the Express Entry system, as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) aligned with in-demand creative sectors.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For official, up-to-date immigration and visa requirements, please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.