→ → → Laws and regulations regarding employment and work permits for immigrants
Laws and regulations regarding employment and work permits for immigrants in Hungary
Laws and regulations regarding
employment and work permits for immigrants
If you are a non-EU/EEA
citizen, you are generally required to obtain a work permit and residence
permit to be employed in Hungary. This combined permit -known as a residence
permit for the purpose of employment- allows you to live and work in the
country. For the most accurate and up-to-date
information, I recommend visiting the
official website of the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF)
or seeking advice from a qualified Hungarian immigration lawyer, as regulations
are subject to frequent changes.
Types of Employment Permits
There are several categories of permits depending on the type
and duration of employment:
-Single Permit: For those employed by a Hungarian employer for more than 90
days.
-Seasonal Work Permit: Typically issued for agricultural
or tourism work lasting no more than 6 months.
-EU Blue Card: For highly skilled non-EU
nationals, especially in sectors facing labor shortages.
-Intra-Corporate Transfer Permit: For employees temporarily relocated
within a multinational company.
-Third-Country Nationals Employed
Through Temporary Agencies: This requires additional employer documentation and registration.
Application process
The work permit application process is usually initiated by
the Hungarian employer, and must be submitted to the National
Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (Országos Idegenrendészeti
Főigazgatóság)—commonly called the Immigration Office. The application usually
includes:
-A valid job offer or employment contract
-Proof of qualifications (translated into Hungarian)
-Passport and passport photos
-Health insurance documentation
-Proof of accommodation in Hungary
Processing time: Most work permit applications take between 30 and 70 days
to process, depending on the complexity of the case and completeness of the
documents.
Employment laws and rights
Once employed in Hungary,
immigrants are entitled to the same labor rights as Hungarian citizens,
including:
-A written employment contract
-Minimum wage guarantees
-Health and safety standards
-Social security coverage
-Paid leave (holiday, sick leave, maternity leave, etc.)
EU/EEA Citizens
Citizens of EU/European Economic Area countries do not need a
work permit to work in Hungary. However, if they plan to stay for more than 90
days, they must register with the immigration authorities and obtain a
registration certificate and address card.
Penalties and compliance
Working without the appropriate permit can result in fines,
deportation, and bans on future entry into the Schengen Area. Employers who
hire undocumented workers are also subject to legal penalties.
Helpful sources
Immigration Office Budapest (National Directorate-General for
Aliens Policing)
This is the official authority managing immigration,
residency, and employment-related permits. The website offers information in
English and provides application forms, document checklists, and appointment
booking.
H-1117 Budapest, 60 Budafoki út
Postal address: H-1903 Budapest, P.O.
Box no. 314
Call Centre: +36 1 463 9292
Email: migracio@oif.gov.hu
Website: http://www.oif.gov.hu/index.php
https://enterhungary.gov.hu/eh/assets/tajekoztato2025-en.pdf