Navigating Hungary’s Work Visa Landscape: A Guide for Employers in 2025

As Hungary continues to refine its immigration policies, employers aiming to hire foreign talent must stay informed about the latest regulations. This guide provides an overview of Hungary's work visa system as of 2025, highlighting key visa types, employer responsibilities, application procedures, and compliance considerations.

Understanding the importance of immigration compliance

Hungary's immigration laws have undergone significant changes with the implementation of Government Decree No. 450/2024, effective January 18, 2025. These reforms aim to streamline the employment of foreign workers while imposing stricter eligibility criteria. Employers must ensure adherence to these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure smooth onboarding of international employees.

Overview of the Hungarian work visa and permit system

Hungary offers several work visa options tailored to different employment scenarios:

• General Work Visa: For non-EU nationals with a job offer from a Hungarian employer.
• EU Blue Card: Designed for highly skilled non-EU professionals meeting specific salary and qualification thresholds.
• Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit: For employees of multinational companies transferring to a Hungarian branch.

Each visa type has distinct requirements and benefits, necessitating careful selection based on the employee's role and qualifications.

Types of work visas in Hungary

General Work Visa

The General Work Visa caters to non-EU nationals who have secured employment in Hungary. Applicants must provide a valid job offer, proof of qualifications, and meet health insurance requirements. As of 2025, eligibility is restricted to citizens of specific countries listed in Appendix 1 of the new decree.

EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers

The EU Blue Card is intended for highly qualified professionals. Applicants must have a valid work contract for at least six months and meet the minimum salary threshold, which stands at HUF 883,671 (US$2,474) gross per month in 2025. This card offers benefits such as family reunification and a pathway to permanent residency after three years.

For broader context on global immigration trends and skilled worker programs, explore how global employment services can streamline the hiring process.

Intra-Corporate Transfer Work Permit

The ICT Permit facilitates the temporary transfer of managers, specialists, or trainees from a non-EU parent company to its Hungarian branch. The permit is valid for up to three years for managers and specialists, and one year for trainees. Applicants must have been employed by the sending company for at least three months prior to the transfer.

Work visa requirements 

Necessary documentation and legal obligations

Employers must provide:

• A valid employment contract detailing job responsibilities and salary
• Proof of the company's registration and compliance with Hungarian labor laws
• Evidence of efforts to fill the position locally before hiring a foreign national

Employers are also responsible for verifying that the employee’s qualifications align with the job requirements.

Eligibility criteria for applicants

Applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

• Relevant educational qualifications and work experience
• Meeting minimum salary thresholds
• Passing health and background checks

Understanding employer sponsorship

Employer sponsorship is essential for initiating and supporting the visa application. Employers must submit documentation on behalf of the applicant and coordinate with immigration authorities throughout the process.

Work permit application process in Hungary

Step-by-step guide to the application process

1. Secure a formal job offer for the prospective employee.
2. Gather employment contracts, proof of qualifications, and insurance.
3. File via the Enter Hungary platform or at a consulate.
4. The applicant provides fingerprints and a photograph.
5. Wait 30–60 days for processing.
6. Upon approval, a permit is issued to live and work in Hungary.

Key considerations for a successful application

• Double-check documents for accuracy
• Apply early to allow for processing time
• Stay in regular contact with authorities

Common mistakes

Be careful to avoid these mistakes:

• Incomplete paperwork
• Not meeting salary or qualification benchmarks
• Failing to submit early enough

Legal and compliance considerations

Compliance with Hungarian law

Employers should monitor changes in Hungarian immigration policy and conduct routine audits to avoid compliance risks.

Health insurance and other benefits

Health insurance is mandatory. Additional perks—like housing support or language assistance—can ease employee transitions and reinforce retention.

Employment contracts

Employment contracts must specify job details, compensation, hours, and termination conditions. Clear terms help reduce disputes.

Maintaining and renewing work visas and permits

Conditions for renewal and extensions

Permits generally last one to three years. Renewal requires ongoing employment, legal compliance, and no infractions. Apply at least 30 days before expiration.

Procedures for transitioning to permanent residency

After three years (two in some cases), employees may seek permanent residency. This includes a new cultural knowledge exam and integration proof.

Rights and responsibilities of employers and employees

Employers must comply with labor laws and provide contractual benefits. Employees are expected to uphold visa conditions and report employment changes.

Utilizing support from EOR providers

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organization that hires and pays employees on behalf of another company. EORs handle complex HR, compliance, and legal tasks—especially valuable in cross-border employment situations. For employers unfamiliar with Hungary’s evolving immigration landscape, partnering with an EOR ensures that visa applications align with current laws, documents are properly filed, and onboarding is compliant.

EOR support helps streamline hiring timelines, reduce legal exposure, and ensure foreign hires are onboarded without disrupting operations.

How Velocity Global can help

Velocity Global helps employers easily hire talent in Hungary with our Employer of Record solution. We provide expert support at every stage, backed by a proven track record in enabling smooth, compliant onboarding. From selecting the right visa to submitting documentation and ensuring compliance, we simplify global hiring worldwide.

This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free.

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