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Hungary is a by several countries, known for its rich history, culture, and the Danube River, with Budapest as its capital and largest city. Hungary is famous for iconic landmarks like the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle, its thermal baths, and the Danube River, as well as its cuisine, including goulash and chimney cake.Hungary can be a good place to work and settle, offering an affordable cost of living, a vibrant culture, and a growing economy, with opportunities for both expats and immigrants. Hungary saw over 51 million tourist trips, including both domestic and international visitors, showing a recovery from the pandemic but still falling short of pre-pandemic levels.
| Official Name | Hungary (Magyarország in Hungarian) |
Capital | Budapest. |
Official Language | Hungarian |
| Currency | Forint (HUF). |
| Population | Around 9.78 million (2025 estimate). |
| Location | Landlocked country in Central Europe, bordering Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. |
| Area | Approximately 93,030 square kilometers (35,919 square miles). |
| Major Rivers | Danube, Tisza, Drava, and Raba. |
| Major Lakes | Lake Balaton (largest lake in Central Europe) and Lake Hévíz (one of the largest thermal lakes in the world). |
| History | Hungary has a history dating back to the 9th century, with Magyar tribes settling in the region. |
| Hungary shares many similarities | Slovakia, Austria, and Romania |
To obtain permanent residence in Hungary, you generally need to live there legally and continuously for 3 years with a residence permit and then apply for a National Residence Card, or 5 years for an EU Residence Card.
General Requirements:
1. Legal and Continuous Residence: You must have lived in Hungary legally and continuously for the required period (3 or 5 years).
2. Residence Permit: You need to have held a valid residence permit for the duration of your stay.
3. Sufficient Income/Savings: You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient income or savings to support yourself and your family.
4. Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance coverage.
5. Permanent Address: You need to have a permanent address in Hungary.
6. Cultural Knowledge Test: As of January 1, 2025, new applicants need to pass a cultural exam.
Apply for a Permanent Residence Card:
1. Online Application: Submit your application for a permanent residence card online through the Hungarian Migration Service’s Enter Hungary website.
2. Biometrics: You must visit the migration department in person to submit your biometrics for the permanent residence card.
3. Required Documents: Prepare documents such as your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), filled-out application form, photographs, your current residence permit, a CV, proof of means of subsistence, health insurance, and a certificate of no criminal record.
4. Processing Time: The regional directorate shall rule the application for a permanent residence card within 70 days.
5. Delivery: The competent immigration authority shall deliver the document evidencing right of residence to the applicant by way of post.
For non-EU citizens
In the first year you will get a Visa at the Consulate which you can travel into Hungary with. This Visa is valid for 30 days from the date you entered the Schengen area. During this period you will need to go to the Hungarian Immigration Office in person to receive the final Schengen Residence Permit and to arrange the Address Registration.
In the second year Non-EU citizens can obtain a residence permit at the Hungarian Immigration Office. You need to prove your employment (Work permit and labour agreement/employment contract) and your accommodation (i.e. rental agreement).
Hungary, a residence permit, often referred to as an “Immigration Card” or “Residence Card,” allows non-EU citizens to live and work in the country for a specific purpose and duration, with options for temporary or permanent residency.
Hungary offers residence permits to foreign citizens who want to live in this country and enjoy prospects almost the same as the citizens of Hungary. Furthermore, as this country is a part of the Schengen zone, any person with a Hungary residence permit can travel Schengen area visa-free. A person should select Hungary as his/her residing country because Hungary offers a high-class lifestyle at low costs, and people prefer to start their businesses in this country
1. Affordable Education: Hungary offers a relatively low cost of living and tuition fees compared to other European countries, making it an accessible option for international students.
2. High-Quality Education: Hungarian universities have a strong reputation and offer a wide range of programs, including those taught in English.
3. Cultural Immersion: Students can immerse themselves in Hungarian culture, history, and traditions, enriching their academic experience.
4. Work While Studying: International students can work part-time while studying, gaining valuable work experience and earning extra income.
5. Safety: Hungary is a relatively safe country, offering a secure environment for students to focus on their studies.
6. Affordable Living: The cost of living in Hungary is lower than in many other Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for expats.
7. Thriving Economy: Hungary has a growing economy with opportunities in various sectors, including IT, manufacturing, and tourism.
8. Healthcare: Hungary has a well-developed healthcare system, providing accessible and affordable healthcare services.
9. Warm Hospitality: Hungarians are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easier for expats to settle in and feel at home.
10. Rich Cultural Heritage: Hungary boasts a rich history and culture, with stunning architecture, museums, and festivals.
The statutory procedure for accepted foreign direct investment in the Investor Residency Bond Program includes the purchase of special Hungarian government bonds in the amount of €300,000 with a maturity of five years. At maturity, the original capital is returned to the investor without accrued interest.
Legislation dictates that the program investment is used to purchase bonds that are issued by a Residency Bond Agent approved by the Hungarian authorities. The agent, in turn, invests that amount in the Hungarian government bonds. This transaction is subject to a Subscription Agreement with the designated enterprise, which must be licensed for the main applicant’s geographic region. The government bonds are assigned for the program only and cannot be used for trading on the public or the secondary market.
Once the security is issued to the investor, the Residence Bond Agent will provide an irrevocable declaration certifying that a Treasury bond with a nominal value of €300,000 and a five-year maturity will be purchased using the funds received from the investor within 45 days of his/her residence permit being issued. In addition to the investment, applicants are also required to cover all processing and visa application fees.
Gather necessary documents:
Hungary permits dual citizenship, meaning individuals can hold both Hungarian and foreign nationalities without needing to renounce their original citizenship. However, it’s crucial to check the laws of the other country involved, as some countries may not allow multiple citizenships.
Working in Hungary can be appealing due to a good work-life balance, competitive salaries, especially in high-demand fields like IT and engineering, and opportunities for professional growth, along with a vibrant culture and affordable cost of living.
1. Affordable Cost of Living: Hungary offers a lower cost of living compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for expats.
2. Vibrant Culture: Hungary boasts a rich culture, beautiful architecture, and a warm climate, offering a unique experience for those who choose to live and work there.
3. Good Work-Life Balance: There’s an emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance in Hungary.
4. Competitive Salaries: Salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like IT and engineering, can be competitive.
5. Professional Growth: There are opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
In Hungary, employment is typically established through a written contract, with a standard work week of 40 hours (8 hours a day, Monday to Friday), and overtime rates varying based on the day of the week.
In Hungary, employment is typically established through a written contract, with a standard work week of 40 hours (8 hours a day, Monday to Friday), and overtime rates varying based on the day of the week.
Hungary, the minimum monthly wage for full-time employees is HUF 290,800 (approximately EUR 725.93) for jobs not requiring education and HUF 348,800 (approximately EUR 870.81) for those requiring at least a high school diploma, effective January 1, 2025.
All non-EU citizens must have a work visa and work permit to live and work in Hungary. As the employer, you’re responsible for the majority of the process, including providing documents to the immigration authorities. Some of the options include:
In addition to a work permit, your employees will need a Hungary work visa. Available visa types follow:
