Hungary’s 2025 Immigration Overhaul: Key Changes, Rules, and Pathways for Foreign Workers

Hungary has entered 2025 with a fully enforced and drastically restructured immigration system. While reforms were introduced in 2024, this year marks the first full implementation phase—impacting both foreign workers and the Hungarian labor market.

From the removal of the once-popular “Single Permit” to new guest worker rules and the introduction of the Hungarian Card, here’s what every foreign professional and employer needs to know about the country’s new immigration direction.

The End of the ‘Single Permit’

For years, the Single Permit allowed foreign nationals to apply for residency and work authorization through a single process. That convenience is now gone. As of 2024—and fully implemented in 2025—the system has been replaced with separate permit categories based on:

• Country of origin
• Worker’s skill level
• Purpose of employment

This change significantly alters how foreign nationals approach work and residency in Hungary.

The Guest Worker Permit: New Rules for Temporary Labor

One of the most notable additions is the Guest Worker Permit, created to manage short-term labor migration. It includes several subcategories:

• Seasonal Employment Permit (agriculture, fishing, forestry)
• Employment for Investment Purposes Permit
• General Employment Permit (Hungarian payroll roles, including some low-skilled jobs)
• Guest Worker Residence Permit (linked to strategic economic projects)

2025 Restrictions:

• Ineligible Nationalities: As of July 10, 2024, citizens of Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Russia can no longer apply.
• Border Commuter Access Expanded: From April 25, 2025, non-resident commuters can access the National Card, improving work mobility for those near Hungary’s borders.

Guest Worker Permit Limitations

While the Guest Worker route offers a legal entry point, it comes with strict conditions:

• No renewal – permits cannot be extended
• No path to permanent residency
• No family reunification
• No job change or internal status conversion
• Over 300 restricted occupations – including roles in healthcare, media, education, and engineering
• Work interruption risks – workers must leave if their permit expires and reapply from abroad

These limitations are already causing labor shortages in sectors that previously relied on foreign workers.

The Hungarian Card: A Skilled Worker Solution

In response to the need for high-value talent, Hungary launched the Hungarian Card, a more attractive alternative for professionals in:

• IT and technology
• Engineering
• Sports
• Arts and culture

Key Benefits:

• ✔️ Eligibility based on higher education or exceptional skills
• ✔️ Permit renewal and status change allowed
• ✔️ Family reunification supported
• ✔️ Competitive minimum salary requirement (at least 80% of market wage for the job)

This permit is gaining popularity among skilled workers seeking long-term employment and residency options in Hungary.

New Requirements Introduced in 2025

1. Cultural Knowledge Exam

From January 1, 2025, all permanent residency applicants must pass a Hungarian culture and history test. This integration requirement tests basic knowledge of the country’s values, traditions, and national milestones.

2. Shorter Entry Visa Validity

The entry visa issued for residence permit collection is now valid for only three months. Delays in entry could force applicants to restart the process.

Tougher Employer Responsibilities

Hungarian employers now face increased compliance obligations in 2025:

• All employment starts and terminations must be reported to authorities
• Foreign workers must exit the country within 6 days of job loss or resignation
• Penalties doubled – fines now reach HUF 1 million per violation

As a result, HR departments must invest in robust compliance systems to avoid legal risks.

The Two-Speed System: Skilled vs. Low-Skilled Migration

Hungary’s immigration strategy is evolving into a dual-track system:

• Skilled migrants benefit from flexibility, renewability, and family support via the Hungarian Card or EU Blue Card
• Low-skilled or temporary labor faces rigid restrictions under the Guest Worker Permit, with no clear path to permanence

For companies, this means rethinking recruitment strategies and prioritizing long-term skilled hires. For workers, understanding the right immigration channel is more important than ever.

Final Thoughts

2025 is a year of major immigration transition in Hungary. Whether you’re a multinational company, a Hungarian employer, or a foreign professional, adapting to these changes is crucial.

The Hungarian Card offers a promising path for skilled talent, while the Guest Worker Permit serves limited, short-term labor needs. Employers must prepare for tighter controls, and foreign nationals should carefully select the right permit to secure their future in Hungary.

For more details, please contact my team.

Phone number

+ 91 6301550340
+ 91 6380692148

Thank you.