NOC 83121 is the Canadian National Occupational Classification code for Fishermen/women. It is classified TEER 3 — College diploma, shorter apprenticeship or 6+ months training, 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 resources & agriculture
8 › 83 › 831 › 8312
Definition
Fishermen/women operate fishing vessels less than 100 gross tonnes to pursue and land fish and other marine life. They are usually self-employed owner-operators of fishing vessels.
Main duties
Example job titles
Overview
Under Canada's NOC 2021 classification system, Fishermen/women are categorized under code 83121, which falls within TEER Category 3. These professionals operate fishing vessels to harvest fish and other marine life, often working as self-employed owner-operators or hired captains. Their primary responsibilities include navigating vessels, operating and maintaining fishing gear such as nets, lines, and traps, directing crew members, and ensuring compliance with maritime safety and fishery regulations.
To meet the ESDC employment requirements for NOC 83121, candidates typically need several years of experience as a fishing vessel deckhand or crew member. Depending on the size of the vessel operated, individuals must possess specific Transport Canada certifications, such as a Fishing Master certificate, Marine Emergency Duties (MED) training, and valid commercial fishing licenses. Familiarity with electronic navigation aids and radio operation is also standard for this occupation.
As a TEER 3 occupation, skilled fishermen and women may qualify for key Canadian immigration pathways. This includes potential eligibility under the Express Entry system (specifically the Federal Skilled Trades Program), various regional Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.
Yes — Fishermen/women is TEER 3, 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.
Fishermen/women is classified as TEER 3 — College diploma, shorter apprenticeship or 6+ months training. Always confirm the exact employment requirements on the official NOC profile before relying on them.
Yes — Fishermen/women is regulated in Québec, so practising there requires recognition from the relevant professional body, and Québec immigration programs take this into account.
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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.