Hungary’s Updated Visa and Work Permit Regulations in 2024
Hungary has made significant changes to its immigration and visa regulations, effective from January 1, 2024. These changes mainly target third-country nationals, meaning non-EU nationals, and affect various visa types, work permits, and residency applications【19†source】【20†source】.
Visa Categories and Requirements
Hungary’s visa options have been divided into several categories:
- Work Visa:
- Split into subcategories such as seasonal employment, specific investment projects, and long-term employment【21†source】.
- The Guest Worker Residence Permit is now widely available but with restrictions. It is valid for 1+2 years (1-year initial period, extendable by 2 years) but cannot be renewed beyond this. Furthermore, it does not grant eligibility for permanent residency or family reunification【21†source】.
- Golden Visa (Guest Investor Residency):
- Available since July 2024 for those making significant investments in Hungary【19†source】. This visa offers benefits such as fast-tracked residency for investors but comes with high financial thresholds.
- Hungarian Card & EU Blue Card:
- These cards are intended for highly skilled professionals. The Hungarian Card is valid for three years, while the EU Blue Card can be issued for up to four years. Holders of these cards can bring their immediate family members to Hungary, offering a pathway to long-term residency【19†source】【21†source】.
- National Residency Card:
- After three years of residence in Hungary, individuals holding the Hungarian Card or the EU Blue Card can apply for this permanent residency option. However, not all permit types count toward this status【20†source】.
Changes in Work Permit Rules
- The old “work permit” system has been restructured. Now, third-country nationals have different options based on their employment length and type【20†source】.
- One of the most significant reforms is the limitation of guest worker permits to non-renewable terms, creating hurdles for long-term residency and family reunification【21†source】.
Opportunities for Job Seekers
Despite the increased regulation, Hungary still presents various opportunities for job seekers:
- Skilled professionals are in demand, and the Hungarian Card or EU Blue Card offers a stable route into the Hungarian job market for those with higher qualifications【21†source】.
- For unskilled labor, the guest worker permit remains an option but is limited in duration and benefits【21†source】.
Restricted Countries and Work Visa Challenges
Hungary’s immigration law changes have particularly affected nationals of non-EU countries:
- Ukrainian and Serbian citizens have a distinct advantage with the newly created National Card, granting them more rights than other third-country nationals【20†source】.
- Nationals of other third countries face stricter controls, reduced benefits under the guest worker permit, and challenges in securing long-term residency【19†source】.
Overall, Hungary’s updated visa policies reflect a focus on attracting high-skilled talent while tightening restrictions for lower-skilled labor. Applicants need to be aware of the new limitations on permits and the pathways available for long-term residency, particularly through the Hungarian Card and EU Blue Card routes.
