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.

Please note that the following instructions are a general guide and the exact process may vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and changes in Hungarian immigration law. Always check with the official Hungarian government website or contact the Hungarian consulate or embassy in your country for the most current information. ```html

• Check Eligibility
  • Review the different types of Hungarian residency permits on the official Hungarian Immigration Office website to determine which category fits your situation: Hungarian Immigration Office.
  • Ensure you meet the general requirements, such as having a valid passport, health insurance, and sufficient financial means to support yourself.
• Gather Required Documents
  • Prepare your valid passport and make sure it has at least two blank pages and is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from Hungary.
  • Obtain proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Hungary.
  • Collect proof of sufficient financial resources, such as bank statements or a letter from an employer.
  • If applicable, prepare documents related to your purpose of stay, such as an employment contract, proof of enrollment in an educational institution, or documents related to family reunification.
• Apply for a Residence Permit
  • Complete the residence permit application form, which can be downloaded from the official website: Residence Permit Application Form.
  • Submit the application form along with all the required documents at the Hungarian consulate or embassy in your home country, or at the regional directorate of the Hungarian Immigration Office if you are already in Hungary.
  • Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of permit and your nationality.
• Wait for Decision
  • After submitting your application, wait for the immigration authorities to process it. This can take several weeks or months.
  • Track the status of your application online if the service is available, or stay in contact with the consulate, embassy, or immigration office where you applied.
• Register Your Address
  • Once in Hungary with your residence permit, you must register your place of residence at the local government office (district office) within 3 days of finding a permanent place to live.
  • Bring your lease agreement or a document proving your right to stay at the address, along with your passport and residence permit.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the National Tax and Customs Administration of Hungary (NAV) office or their website to obtain the application form: National Tax and Customs Administration of Hungary.
  • Complete the application form and submit it along with your identification documents, such as your passport and residence permit.
  • Once your application is processed, you will receive a Hungarian tax number, which is necessary for employment and other official matters.
• Open a Hungarian Bank Account
  • Choose a bank in Hungary and inquire about the requirements for opening an account as a foreign resident.
  • Typically, you will need your passport, residence permit, address card, and Hungarian tax number.
  • Visit the bank in person to open the account, as you may need to sign documents and provide biometric data.
• Obtain a Social Security Card
  • Apply for a social security card at the National Health Insurance Fund of Hungary (NEAK) office or through their website: National Health Insurance Fund of Hungary.
  • You will need to provide your passport, residence permit, and proof of employment or other status that entitles you to social security in Hungary.
  • The social security card will give you access to the Hungarian healthcare system and other social services.

``` Remember to keep copies of all documents and forms you submit, and always check for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements for your situation.

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

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