Guide to Residency in Hungary

Obtaining a residency visa in Hungary is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Hungary gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Determine the type of residence permit you need
  • For stays longer than 90 days, you will need a long-term visa or residence permit
  • Common types include: student, employment, family reunification, and business
• Prepare the necessary documents
  • Valid passport
  • Completed application form (available at Office of Immigration and Asylum)
  • Passport-size photo
  • Document proving the purpose of stay (e.g., work contract, letter of acceptance from university)
  • Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental contract, letter from landlord)
  • Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statement, scholarship certificate)
  • Health insurance certificate
• Apply for a residence permit
  • Submit your application at the Hungarian diplomatic mission in your home country
  • If you are already in Hungary, you can submit your application at the Immigration Office in person
• Wait for the decision
  • Processing time can take up to 70 days
  • You may be required to attend an interview
• Register your address in Hungary
  • Within 3 days of arrival, register your address at the Immigration Office
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) website for the application form
  • Submit the completed form to the nearest NAV office
• Register with the Hungarian health insurance Fund (TAJ)
  • Visit the NEAK website for more information
  • Submit the required documents (e.g., residence permit, address registration, passport) at the nearest NEAK office
• Renew your residence permit (if necessary)
  • Residence permits are usually issued for a specific duration
  • Submit your renewal application at the Immigration Office before your current permit expires

Useful Links

Office of Immigration and Asylum

National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV)

National Health Insurance Fund Management (NEAK)

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Hungary?

"In order to visit Hungary, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Hungary, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Immigration Office. The application must include a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and proof of employment or other legal source of income. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit," commented one member living in Hungary.

"The process is quite straight forward although it can take a few weeks for residency cards to be processed," mentioned one expat living in Hungary.