Determining the right NOC code - should I hire a lawyer?

[applicant_12345]

Hello all, I'm planning to apply for a Canadian PR via Express Entry through the Skilled Worker program. I've already completed my Educational Credential Assessment and am scheduled to take the CELPIP language test. After that, I'll be ready to create my Express Entry profile.

The remaining item for me is to determine the right NOC code. This is the part that is making me anxious because whatever I pick here will become binding on me should I be invited to apply. I'm debating whether to hire a lawyer for this, since I do not really know what to expect.

I'm a software engineer at one of the big Silicon Valley firms (Google/FB/Uber/Airbnb kind of company). The most logical NOC code is 2173 for Software Engineers and Designers, but there are other similar ones for eg Computer programmers and interactive media developers. Has anyone on this forum been in a similar situation and successfully gotten a Canadian PR? What NOC code did you use for your case? What kind of supporting documents did you need to get in order to apply for the PR?

Thanks in advance for any guidance and information!

 

[Islander216]

Look at the lead statements for each NOC which seems close to your title, and then determine which ones' duties and responsibilities most closely resembles the for your work experience.

 

[applicant_12345]

Thanks @Islander216 and @dan_and -- both NOC 2173 and 2174 bear resemblance to the work I do, which is the confusing part. Should I try and get the reference letter from my employers before I submit my Express Entry profile? I'm not sure whether it's possible to change the NOC code after submitting the profile.

 

[Islander216]

You can always mention that in your LOE, but i think when the occupations are so similar and closely related, i don't think IRCC are going to penalise you for choosing one or the other.

They're both under the 217 - Computer and information systems professionals subgroup.

It would be good to get the work references, but make sure it includes all the information you need.