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NOC 21200: Architects
NOC 21200 is a TEER 1 occupation. It counts as skilled work for Express Entry under FSW and CEC. It is not on any 2026 category list, so candidates compete in general and program rounds.
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Architects conceptualize, plan and develop designs for the construction and renovation of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. They are employed by architectural firms, private corporations and governments, or they may be self-employed.
Job titles filed under this code
Official example titles
- architect
- architectural standards specialist
- chief architect
- consulting architect
- industrial and commercial buildings architect
- residential architect
Not this code
Close occupations that have their own code
- Architecture and science managers → 20011
- Database architect → 21223 Database analysts and data administrators
- Landscape architects → 21201
- Naval architect → 21399 Other professional engineers
- Software architect → 21231 Software engineers and designers
- Structural engineer → 21300 Civil engineers
- Technical architect - hardware → 21311 Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Consult with clients to determine the type, style and purpose of renovations or new building construction being considered
- Conceptualize and design buildings and develop plans describing design specifications, building materials, costs and construction schedules
- Prepare sketches and models for clients
- Prepare or supervise the preparation of drawings, specifications and other construction documents for use by contractors and tradespersons
- Prepare bidding documents, participate in contract negotiations and award construction contracts
- Monitor activities on construction sites to ensure compliance with specifications
- Conduct feasibility studies and financial analyses of building projects.
Architects may specialize in a particular type of construction such as residential, commercial, industrial or institutional.
What this code means for Express Entry
TEER 0–3 work counts toward the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
One year of this work in Canada can qualify for the Canadian Experience Class.
Not in a Federal Skilled Trades group.
CRS points from November 3, 2026
NOC 21200 is on IRCC's high-wage occupations list at the 1.3x level. From November 3, 2026, at least 12 months (1,560 hours) of Canadian work in it adds 20 points to your Canadian work experience points in the CRS, and a valid job offer in it is worth 50 points; the higher of the two counts. No LMIA is needed.
IRCC high-wage list (list from 2023 to 2025 wage data, read 2026-10-16) · CRS calculator with the new rules
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Employment requirements
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited school of architecture or completion of the syllabus of studies from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) is required.
- A master's degree in architecture may be required.
- Completion of a three-year internship under the supervision of a registered architect is required.
- Completion of the architect registration examination is required.
- Registration with a provincial regulatory body is required in all provinces and the Northwest Territories.
- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is offered by the Canada Green Building Council and may be required by some employers.
Good to know
- Progression to senior positions, such as chief architect, is possible with experience.