Hungary is a Central European country esteemed for its above-average rank in work-life balance and one lowest income inequality in the world. The nation promises a great living and working environment, together with opportunities to hone your skills and talents.
It won’t be a surprise if foreign nationals like you wish to migrate to the country to work. This article will help you with the requirements and procedures for a Hungary work visa that you need to know.
Do I need a work visa in Hungary?
Hungary joined the European Union in 2004 and the Schengen area in 2007. Hence, it allows citizens of the union’s member states to work and live in the country without any special Hungary work visa. EU citizens only need a registration card and a registered Hungarian address.
Non-EU nationals who intend to work for over 90 days require a work visa or permit.
What are the requirements to apply for a work visa in Hungary?
Work visa application in Hungary is part of the general residency applications. Foreign nationals must apply for a single authorization that combines a work permit and a residency permit. This long-stay permit allows you to stay in Hungary for over 90 days with these activities:
- working under a contract with a Hungarian company
- intra-company transfers from UK branch of a company
- research work
- self-employed work
In the case of seasonal work, you may apply for a short-term work visa instead. It allows you to work for a maximum of 90 days in 180 days.
Prepare the following general requirements:
- Completed residence permit application form
- Valid travel document or passport (must exceed the visa validity by three months)
- One passport-sized colored photograph (must not be older than six months)
- Justification for the purpose of the stay (e.g., authorization from your employer to employ a foreigner)
- Full-coverage health insurance
- Registered address in Hungary
- Proof of travel itinerary (or any justification for return or further travel)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank account statement, advance payment from the company)
- Proof of no criminal record
In the case of a paid activity or contract:
- An employment contract or letter of intent
- Proof of required qualifications (e.g., university degree, work experience certificate)
In the case of intra-company transfer,
- Document or letter authorizing the transfer
In the case of self-employment, as applicable
- Resolution on the registration of the enterprise
- Proof of qualifications necessary for the activity
- A brief business plan
In the case of research work
- Contract with an accredited research organization
Note that a Hungarian diplomatic office may request additional documents other than those listed above. Furthermore, you must also submit an original and a copy of the documents. They also have the right to examine them for authenticity.
Check Also: Programs in Europe for International Students
Steps on Applying for a Work Visa in Hungary
The work visa procedure in Hungary can be lengthy depending on your case, but it generally takes 70 days before you get a result. Take this into consideration when you begin your application.
You can follow the detailed guide below:
1. Sign a job contract
Foreign labor is regulated in Hungary. Hence, companies can only hire foreign nationals when there is no Hungarian available for the job 15 days after a job advertisement is posted. A company will submit a manpower request to the Hungarian Labor Office, which grants foreign recruitment depending on a yearly quota.
When the request is granted, the company can forward a job contract to you. Moreover, you begin the procedure with a signed employment contract with a Hungarian company.
Your employer is responsible for a majority of the Hungary work visa application, including the application for a work permit and the provision of social security number and tax number. It is not permitted to apply for a permit as a job seeker.
2. Obtain a work permit from the Hungarian Labor Office
Your employer will submit a work permit request to the Hungarian Labor Office on your behalf. At this stage, you will provide the requirements listed above, especially those that demonstrate your qualifications for the position you’re applying for.
Your employer will also submit company details, such as social security and tax registration, to show that they are eligible employers. The labor center will review the request within 10 to 30 days upon receipt.
Work permits are granted on the following terms:
- A valid workforce requirement
- Proof of no Hungarian citizen available for the job
- Proof that the foreign national satisfies employment conditions
Once approved, your employer will receive a resolution that you can use in the overall Hungary work visa application process. It specifies the workplace details, job description, employment tenure, and employer details. The work permit is valid for two years and is renewable.
You can bring your family member through a process called “family reunification” after you have been granted a work permit. They must apply for a separate residence permit whose validity is the same as your main permit.
3. Accomplish the visa application form
Complete a residence permit application form available in English or Hungarian at the website of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The form must include your personal information, employer information, details on your means of subsistence, qualifications, signature, and other pertinent information.
4. Apply for a visa at a Hungarian embassy
Schedule an appointment with a Hungarian diplomatic mission or regional directorate in your country of residence. On the scheduled date, submit your application package and prepare for a short interview, in case it is requested. You are also required to submit digital scans of your fingerprints and have your photograph taken.
5. Settle the visa fee
There is an administrative fee for every Hungarian work visa application. As of writing, it is EUR 60 or USD 69 and is payable directly at the regional consulate office. In the case of seasonal employment, the fee is EUR 40 or USD 46.
After your payment is received, the regional directorate of the Hungarian Immigration Office will process your application within 30 days.
You will receive a notification to collect your visa by email or post, while you can obtain your residence and work permit upon your arrival in Hungary.
We hope this article on how to get a Hungary work visa was helpful! If you’re interested in studying in Europe, make sure to check out the Available Programs in Europe for International Students!
