Hungary Job Offer (Work Visa)

What is the Residence Permit for the Purpose of Employment?

This is a combined residence and work permit that allows you to legally live and work in Hungary for a specific employer. Unlike some other visas, the Hungarian permit is tied to your employment, meaning you cannot switch jobs without applying for a new permit.

The visa is granted to third-country nationals who have a valid employment contract or a preliminary agreement with a Hungary-based employer. The primary purpose is to fill labor shortages and bring skilled foreign workers into the Hungarian workforce.

Key Requirements for the Hungarian Work Visa

To be eligible for this permit, both you and your prospective employer must meet specific criteria set by the Hungarian authorities.

For the Applicant:

• Valid Job Offer: This is the most crucial requirement. You must have a pre-employment contract or a formal letter of intent from a Hungarian company. This document is the foundation of your entire application.
• Professional Qualifications: You must possess the necessary education, skills, and professional experience for the role. As of a July 2025 update, proof of professional qualification, such as a diploma or certificate, is now a mandatory requirement.
• Sufficient Financial Means: You need to prove you have enough funds to support yourself until you receive your first salary. This can be demonstrated with bank statements or the employer’s commitment to cover initial costs.
• Accommodation: You must provide proof of a place to live in Hungary, such as a residential lease contract or a certificate from your employer stating they will provide accommodation.

For the Employer:

• Labor Market Test: In most cases, the Hungarian employer must first advertise the position for a period of time (typically 15 days) to prove that there are no qualified Hungarian or EU/EEA citizens available for the job.
• Proper Registration: The company must be a legally registered entity in Hungary and be compliant with all tax and social security obligations.

Required Documents for a Successful Application

The application process is thorough and requires a comprehensive set of documents. Providing a complete and well-organized package is key to a smooth process.

*Note: All documents must be in English or Hungarian, or a certified translation must be provided.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process is a single application procedure that combines the request for both a residence and a work permit.

1. Secure a Job Offer: First and foremost, you must find an employer in Hungary willing to hire and sponsor you.
2. Gather Documents: Work with your employer to collect all the necessary documents, including the employment contract and your personal credentials.
3. Submit the Application: As a non-EU citizen, you will typically submit your application at the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country. In some cases, your employer may be able to submit the application for you via the Enter Hungary platform with your written consent.
4. Wait for a Decision: The Immigration Directorate in Hungary will review your application. The typical processing time is 70 days, but this can vary.
5. Receive the Visa: If approved, you will receive a single-entry “D” visa, which is valid for 30 days and allows you to enter Hungary.
6. Arrive in Hungary: Upon arrival, you will visit the regional directorate of the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing to get your official residence permit card.

Important Changes and Considerations for 2025

The Hungarian government has implemented several changes to its immigration laws in 2025 to tighten regulations and streamline processes.

• New Nationality Restrictions: As of January 1, 2025, there are new restrictions on which nationalities are eligible for certain work permits, primarily based on readmission agreements between Hungary/EU and the third country. This is a crucial point to verify with the authorities.
• Stricter Employer Obligations: New rules require employers to provide proof of a paid return ticket or ensure the employee has one upon termination of the employment contract. Employers must also promptly notify immigration authorities of the termination.
• Electronic Reporting: Starting from July 2025, there will be a transition to exclusively electronic reporting for self-employed migrants, with a new mobile application expected to be introduced.

Conclusion

The Hungary Job Offer Work Visa is a well-defined pathway for foreign professionals to build a career in a dynamic European nation. While the process is detail-oriented and requires careful preparation—especially in light of recent changes—it provides a clear route to living and working in Hungary. By securing a legitimate job offer and meticulously preparing your documents, you can successfully navigate the process and start your new life in Hungary.