Public Institutions in Hungary

Immigration office

Immigration-related matters are handled by the National Directorate‑General for Aliens Policing. This office is responsible for residence and immigration procedures for foreign nationals living in Hungary.

Here you can apply for different types of residence permits (for example for work, study, or family reunification), extend your residence permit, or report changes related to your immigration status. The office also handles residence cards, registration certificates for EU citizens, and other documents required for legal stay in Hungary. In some cases, biometric data (such as fingerprints and photos) may also be taken during the application process.

Appointments are usually required before visiting the office, and many procedures can be started online through the official immigration administration system. It is important to check the required documents in advance, as incomplete applications may delay the process.

Government service centres (Kormányablak)

Many general administrative services in Hungary can be handled at Kormányablak offices, also known as government service centres. These offices are designed as one-stop service points where residents can manage a wide range of official matters in one place.

At a Kormányablak, you can apply for or replace official documents such as ID cards, address cards, or driving licences. These offices also handle address registration, vehicle-related administration, and certain family or social benefit applications. In some cases, they can provide information about other administrative procedures and direct you to the appropriate authority.

Kormányablak offices are located in most cities and districts, and many services can be accessed with or without an appointment, depending on the type of procedure. In larger cities such as Budapest, several offices operate across different districts, making it easier for residents to access administrative services close to their place of residence.

Municipality

Local administrative and community-related services are managed by the municipality of the city or district where you live. Municipal offices are responsible for many local matters that affect everyday life, such as local services, community programmes, and certain administrative procedures.

At the municipality, residents can obtain information about local regulations, social services, housing-related issues, and community programmes. Municipalities may also provide support in areas such as childcare services, local education institutions, and cultural or recreational activities. In larger cities such as Budapest, each district has its own municipal office that manages local services for residents.

Municipalities also organise local events and provide information about public services available in the area. For newcomers and foreign residents, municipal websites and customer service offices can be useful sources of information about living in a specific city or district.