Hungary work permit visa guide

Hungary Work Permit Visa Guide

Hungary is a member of the European Union (EU), which provides EU/EEA nationals the right to live and work without requiring a work permit. However, non-EU/EEA nationals need to follow a specific process to obtain a work permit and visa to work in Hungary. This guide outlines the steps involved in obtaining a work permit and residence visa in Hungary, along with relevant citations.

Types of Work Permits in Hungary

For non-EU/EEA nationals, there are several types of work permits available depending on the nature of employment and the qualifications of the foreign worker. The most common types are:

Single Permit (Combined Residence and Work Permit)

- This is the most common permit for non-EU nationals wishing to work in Hungary. It combines both residence and work permits into a single application process. It's typically issued for skilled workers and employees in sectors with labor shortages.

Seasonal Work Permit

- For seasonal employment in fields like agriculture, tourism, or construction. This type of permit is temporary and typically valid for up to 6 months per year.

Work Permit for Highly Qualified Workers (EU Blue Card)

- The EU Blue Card is designed for highly skilled workers with higher educational qualifications or professional experience. It allows workers to live and work in Hungary and other EU member states, under certain conditions.

Intra-Corporate Transfer Permit

- For employees of multinational companies who are transferred to a branch or affiliate in Hungary. This type of permit is generally used for managerial, technical, or specialized positions.

Permit for International Service Providers

- For individuals employed by a foreign company providing services in Hungary under a contract or agreement with a Hungarian company.

Work Permit Visa Process

Step 1: Employer’s Application for a Work Permit

The process typically begins with the Hungarian employer applying for a work permit for the foreign employee. The employer must:

Prove no local candidates are available: The employer must demonstrate that they were unable to find a suitable candidate from Hungary or the EU for the This is usually done by advertising the job and showing that the local labor market cannot meet the demand for that particular role.
Provide Required Documentation: The employer will need to submit the following documents:
- Proof of the company’s legal registration in
- A copy of the job offer or
- Proof of the applicant’s qualifications and
- Evidence of recruitment

Proof of salary that meets or exceeds the minimum wage standards in Hungary.

Step 2: Work Permit Decision

Once the employer submits the necessary documentation, the application is reviewed by the

Hungarian Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (Országos Idegenrendészeti Főigazgatóság). The decision may take up to 2–3 months, depending on the type of work permit and the specific situation.

Single Permit: The combined residence and work permit for non-EU nationals is typically issued for a period of up to 2 years and can be extended.
EU Blue Card: Issued for up to 4 years, depending on the duration of the employment

Step 3: Applying for a National Visa

Once the work permit is approved, the employee can apply for a national visa (Type D) at the Hungarian consulate or embassy in their home country. The following documents are typically required:

Valid
Copy of the work permit
Job contract or employment
Proof of accommodation in
Health
Visa application form and recent

Processing times for a visa application are usually around 15–20 business days but may vary depending on the specific consulate.

Step 4: Arrival in Hungary

Upon receiving the national visa, the employee can travel to Hungary. Once in Hungary, the individual must report to the local immigration office (National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing) to complete their registration.

Step 5: Residence Card Application

If the employee intends to stay in Hungary for more than 90 days, they will need to apply for a residence card (Kártya a tartózkodásra). This process is typically done at the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing after entering Hungary.

Key Requirements for Hungary Work Permits

Salary Requirement: The salary for the position must typically meet the Hungarian labor market standards, including the national minimum For higher-skilled positions (like those covered by the EU Blue Card), the salary requirement is higher.
Educational Qualifications: Applicants for work permits (particularly for skilled work or the EU Blue Card) must provide proof of relevant qualifications, such as university degrees or professional certifications.
Language Skills: While Hungarian is the official language, knowledge of English or other languages is often required, especially for multinational companies or positions in international business or IT sectors.
No Available Local Workers: Employers must demonstrate that there is a shortage of local workers for the position being This may involve advertising the job in Hungary and providing proof of recruitment efforts.
Health Insurance: All foreign nationals must have health insurance for the duration of their stay in This is generally covered by either private insurance or through the Hungarian public health insurance system.

Duration of Work Permits and Extensions

Single Permit: Generally issued for up to 2 years, with the option to extend for up to 5 years if the employment continues.
EU Blue Card: Valid for up to 4 years, and can be After 18 months of residing in Hungary, the holder may move to another EU country while maintaining their Blue Card status.
Seasonal Work Permits: Typically valid for up to 6 months per year and must be renewed

Work permits can typically be extended as long as the employee’s job situation and the employer’s registration in Hungary remain unchanged.

Special Considerations

EU Blue Card: This card is designed to attract highly skilled professionals, such as IT specialists, engineers, and It allows flexibility for workers to move between EU countries, offering more rights than a typical work permit.
Work Permit for Startups: Entrepreneurs wishing to start a business in Hungary may apply for a business visa, provided they can demonstrate that their startup will create jobs or contribute significantly to the Hungarian economy.
Seasonal Workers: Citizens of certain countries (e.g., Ukraine, Serbia) can apply for seasonal work permits with fewer formalities, especially for sectors like agriculture or

Important Citations and Legal Sources

1. Hungarian Act II of 2007 on the Admission and Residence of Foreign Nationals
- Governs the entry, residence, and work of foreign nationals in Hungary.
- [Hungarian Immigration Law](https://www.mfa.gov.hu/eng/)

2. Hungarian Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (Országos Idegenrendészeti Főigazgatóság)
- Provides detailed instructions on obtaining work and residence permits in Hungary.
- [Directorate-General for Aliens Policing](http://www.bmbah.hu/index.php?lang=en)

3. EU Blue Card Directive:
- Provides the legal framework for highly skilled non-EU workers in Hungary.
- [EU Blue Card](https://ec.europa.eu/immigration/blue-card_en)

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in Hungary as a non-EU national involves a well-defined process that typically starts with the employer’s application, followed by obtaining a visa and registering with the Hungarian immigration authorities. Whether you’re applying for a general work permit, an EU Blue Card, or a seasonal work permit, it’s essential to ensure that all requirements are met to avoid delays.