Q & A: NOC Employment Requirements

Q. I´ve been working as software developer in a big corporation for one and a half years. But I do not have much educational background, as I learned everything most of what I know by myself. Will it be completely impossible for me to apply for immigration due to lack of educational references ?

My employers have told me they would supply me with a letter of reference stating that I am a perfectly able professional in my field, would that do any difference ?

Answer: The NOC does specify that "A bachelor's degree in computer science or in another discipline with a significant programming component, such as mathematics, commerce or business administration or Completion of a college program in computer science is usually required."

The Department has indicated that "usually" should be interpreted as "always." Realistically, however, if you can reasonably demonstrate that your skills will make you employable in your intended occupation, there is fair grounds to suggest that you could qualify in such.