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An SSYK code is a number from the Swedish Standard Classification of Occupations (Standard för svensk yrkesklassificering), run by Statistics Sweden (SCB). The current version, SSYK 2012, sorts every job into groups, down to four-digit codes. For work permits, the code decides which salary statistics and exemptions apply to the job.
How the code is built
| Digits | Level | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Major group | 3 |
| 2 to 3 | Sub-groups | 35, 351 |
| 4 | Unit group (the code you use) | 3512: IT support technicians (Supporttekniker, IT) |
Why it matters for work permits
- The 75% salary level. Since 1 June 2026 a work permit normally needs a monthly salary of at least 90% of the median: SEK 34,470 for applications from 16 June 2026. Occupations listed by SSYK code in the Aliens Ordinance need only 75%: SEK 28,725. Examples include IT operations and support (3511 to 3514), assistant nurses, childcare assistants, ambulance care assistants and care assistants (5321 to 5326, 5330), welders (7212) and butchers (7611).
- Banned occupations. Personal assistants (5343) and forest berry pickers (part of 9210) can no longer get work permits. Berry pickers working for an employer established in Sweden can still apply for a seasonal work permit.
- Terms in line with the occupation. Salary and terms must be at least on par with Swedish collective agreements or what is customary in the occupation or industry, so the occupation you state matters.
Exemptions follow the code in the ordinance, not the job title. Migrationsverket says to check that the occupation is still on the list when extending a permit. Full detail: salary threshold 2026, or check a salary with the salary threshold tool.
How to find the right code
- Open SCB's search tool, SSYK-Sök, at scb.se.
- Search for the occupation in Swedish or by code, and read the description of tasks.
- Choose the code that matches what the person will actually do, not the title on the contract.
- Use the same code in the job offer, the contract and payroll reporting.
Common problems
- Choosing a code to fit the salary. Pick the code from the real tasks, never from the salary level you want to reach.
- Title vs tasks. "Engineer" titles cover many codes. The tasks decide.
- Changes at extension. A change of profession means a new work permit application, and an exempt occupation can drop off the list, so check the code before every extension.
Related terms
- The June 2026 work permit rules
- Collective agreements and work permits
- Changing jobs with the same employer
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find a list of SSYK codes?
SCB publishes the full SSYK 2012 classification and a free search tool, SSYK-Sök, where you can search by occupation name or code and read what tasks each code covers.
Who picks the SSYK code for a work permit application?
The employer states the occupation in the offer of employment. Choose the code from the actual duties, and keep it consistent across documents.
Does the 75% level apply to every IT job?
No. It applies to specific IT operations and support codes (3511 to 3514), not to all IT roles. Software and systems developers (2512), for example, are not on the list and need the normal 90% level, unless they belong to an exempt group.
How Settio helps employers and agencies
Settio helps employers and immigration agencies run every work permit and relocation case in one place, from the first step to the renewal:
- Before the move: a plan for every hire, with each step, owner and deadline counted back from the start date, and documents that check themselves as they come in.
- After arrival: the employee portal shows the new hire their next steps on their phone, in their language, with no account or password.
- For the renewal: permit and salary monitoring tracks every expiry date and flags the extension in good time.
Your first hire is free, and agencies can try a real case for free. See plans and start.
Sources
8 official sources
- SCB: Standard för svensk yrkesklassificering (SSYK)
- SCB: SSYK-Sök 2012
- Migrationsverket: Occupations and groups with the 75% level (May 2026)
- Migrationsverket: New median salary affects the salary requirement (16 June 2026)
- Migrationsverket: Salary requirements for a work permit
- Migrationsverket: New rules for work permits come into force (1 June 2026)
- Migrationsverket: Apply for a work permit in Sweden
- Lagen.nu: Utlänningsförordningen (2006:97), 5 kap. 5 and 6 §§
More in our guide toImmigration to Sweden
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