Entering, staying and working conditions in Hungary in case of Third country nationals

1.      Short term stay (not exceeding the 90 days period)

Nationals of countries listed in the 539/2001 EC council regulation Annex II. („Visa-free nationals”) may enter Hungary without a visa, however nationals of countries not listed in the council regulation/countries under visa obligation („Visa nationals”) - even if they are family members of EU/EEA citizens - will need to apply for a visa or a residence permit before entering Hungary (Visa free nationals and Visa nationals collectively: „Third country nationals”). Visa-free nationals and Visa nationals entering Hungary with a visa are entitled to stay in Hungary only for 90 days.

2.      Entry for long stay (period exceeding 90 days)

Third country nationals intending to stay in Hungary for more than 90 days shall apply for a residence permit. The type and the validity of the residence permit depends on the purpose of stay. The resident permit may be issued for the following purposes: visitation, gainful activity, education, family reunification, medical treatment, research work, voluntary activity or official purpose. In case the stay does not fall in the categories above, it may be issued for another purpose. To obtain such a residence permit the applicants shall prove not only the purpose of their stay, but also their livelihood, housing and all inclusive health insurance. Usually the residence permit may be issued for a maximum of two years, but after this period it can be renewed for two further years.

Third country nationals are entitled to become a permanent resident of Hungary, after a five-year period of uninterrupted legal residence in the territory of Hungary.

3.      Working in Hungary

Third country nationals – except family members of EU/EEA citizens - may only work in Hungary based on a permit. The work permit may be issued if the employer has a valid labor need in relation to the activity to be performed by the applicant. Once issued, the work permit is valid for a maximum of two years, but it can be renewed for an additional two-year period.

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Should you have any questions regarding this post, feel free to contact Dr. Miriam Bukovics
miriam.bukovics@gfplegal.com or office@gfplegal.com