Working Legally in Hungary
It is necessary for non-European Union (EU) citizens to obtain a work permit in order to work legally in Hungary. The work permit must be obtained prior to starting work.
Who Must Make the Application?
The application for a work permit must be made by the expat’s employer. The employer must provide proof that they have attempted to hire a Hungarian citizen or an EU citizen before offering the job to the expat
Some exemptions exist for certain categories of people, such as:
- EU citizens who have the right to work in any EU country without a work permit
- Family members of EU citizens
- Diplomats
- Researchers
- Students who have been accepted into a Hungarian university
- People who have been granted asylum in Hungary
Types of Work Permits for Expats in Hungary
The following types of work permits are available for expats in Hungary:
- Short-term work permit
- Long-term work permit
- Intra-corporate transfer permit
- Highly-skilled worker permit
- Seasonal work permit
Eligibility for each type of work permit depends on factors such as the nature of the work, the qualifications of the expat, and the length of the intended stay in Hungary.
Work Permit Application Process in Hungary
The procedure to apply for a work permit in Hungary includes the following steps:
- The employer must first apply for a work permit on behalf of the expat
- The expat must then apply for a visa at a Hungarian embassy or consulate in their home country
- Once the visa has been granted, the expat can travel to Hungary and complete the work permit application process, including a medical examination
- The processing time for a work permit application is typically several weeks, but can vary depending on the type of permit and the complexity of the application
Work Permit Documents in Hungary
The following documents are required to apply for a work permit in Hungary:
- Passport
- Employment contract
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of qualifications
- Criminal record check
- Proof of accommodation in Hungary
Work Permit Costs in Hungary
The costs involved in applying for a work permit in Hungary include:
- Work permit fee
- Visa fee
- Medical examination fee
- Health insurance premium
Reliable Information on Working Legally in Hungary
Expats can find reliable information on working legally in Hungary from the following websites:
- Hungarian government website for immigration and asylum: http://www.bmbah.hu/
- Hungarian embassy or consulate in the expat’s home country
- International organization for migration: https://www.iom.int/
- European Union’s information on living and working in Hungary: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/work/living-and-working-abroad/hungary/index_en.htm