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Hungary has become a growing destination for international workers seeking stable employment within the European Union.?If you are a non-EU/EEA national planning to work and live in Hungary, you will likely need a Single Permit — a residence and work authorization combined into one document.
This guide explains what the Hungarian Single Permit is, who can apply for it, how it works, and the process for securing it legally.
1. What Is the Single Permit?
The Single Permit in Hungary is a combined residence and work authorization that allows non-EU citizens to live and work legally in the country.?It is issued as a residence card and replaces the need for separate residence and work permits.
Introduced in line with EU Directive 2011/98/EU, this system simplifies the process for both employers and foreign employees by allowing them to apply through one integrated procedure.
2. Who Needs a Single Permit in Hungary?
You need a Single Permit if you:
• Are a non-EU/EEA or non-Swiss citizen
• Plan to work in Hungary for more than 90 days
• Have a valid job offer from a registered Hungarian employer
Citizens of EU and EEA countries do not need a work or residence permit in Hungary — they only need to register their stay after entering the country.
3. What Does the Single Permit Allow You to Do?
Once approved, the Single Permit gives you the right to:
• Work legally for the employer listed on your permit
• Reside in Hungary for the duration of your employment contract
• Access basic social benefits, such as healthcare and tax registration
• Apply for renewal or modification if you change jobs or extend your stay
However, the permit is employer-specific, meaning you cannot change employers without a new application.
4. Documents Required for the Single Permit Application
To apply for a Single Permit, you must prepare the following key documents:
• Completed Single Application Form
• Valid passport (at least six months beyond your intended stay)
• Employment contract or job offer from a Hungarian employer
• Proof of accommodation in Hungary
• Health insurance certificate valid for your entire stay
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• Two recent passport photos
• Criminal background certificate (from your home country)
• Application fee payment receipt
All foreign documents must be officially translated and legalized before submission.
5. How to Apply for the Single Permit
The application can be submitted in two ways:
1. From Abroad:?If you are applying from outside Hungary, you must file your application through the Hungarian consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
2. From Within Hungary:?If you are already in Hungary legally (e.g., with a visa or residence permit), you can apply directly at the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (Országos Idegenrendészeti F?igazgatóság) or its regional offices.
After submission, your employer must also provide supporting documents to the Hungarian Labor Authority for job verification.
6. Processing Time
The average processing time for a Single Permit in Hungary is 60 days from the date of submission, though this may vary depending on documentation completeness and workload.
Applicants will receive a residence card once approved, which serves as both the work and residence authorization.
7. Duration and Renewal
• The Single Permit is usually valid for one or two years, depending on the length of your employment contract.
• It can be renewed if you continue to meet the employment and residence requirements.
• Renewal applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the current permit expires.
8. Changing Employers or Job Roles
If you wish to change your employer or job position, you must apply for a new Single Permit.?The new application will undergo labor market assessment and verification similar to the original process.
Working for a different employer without an updated permit is considered a violation of Hungarian immigration law.
9. Key Advantages of the Single Permit
• Simplifies administrative procedures (one combined application)
• Legal residence and work authorization in a single document
• Streamlined communication between immigration and labor authorities
• Faster renewal process compared to separate permits
This unified process supports foreign professionals in integrating smoothly into the Hungarian labor market.
Key Takeaway
The Single Permit in Hungary simplifies the process for foreign nationals to live and work legally in the country.?By combining residence and work authorization, it ensures a faster, transparent, and more efficient procedure — provided that all documentation and employment terms meet Hungarian legal standards.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.?Permit requirements and application rules in Hungary may vary depending on your nationality, employment type, and residence status.?Always verify current details with the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF) or your local Hungarian consulate before applying.
October 27, 2025
