Hungary’s Immigration Law Updates: The country has increased its residence permits

Hungary’s latest immigration law marks a significant shift with the introduction of new residence permits. These permits have now expanded to 24 different types, including 8 for employment purposes.

However, the previous Hungary immigration law specified only 18 types of residence permits, and the category of residence permits for other purposes has now been abolished. 

One of the most notable changes in the law is the introduction of separate categories of work permits for highly-skilled workers, low-skilled guest workers, and a new permit for investors, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. 

The law also introduces a “golden visa.” From July 1, 2024, the guest-investor visa and residence permit will be accessible. These permits allow residence for 10+10 years for a minimum real estate fund investment of 250,000 EUR. 

The new immigration law, which was planned to be initiated on March 1, 2024, proposes authoritarian conditions to existing regulations for third-country nationals (TCNs). 

Applications for the new regulations have not been started as per the implementation rule, i.e., executive decrees and detailed provisions have not yet been announced.

The new application submission from TCNs has been suspended with some exceptions for those with a necessitated residence permit “of national interest” based on ministerial approval.

The previous rules were considered for applications submitted before December 31, 2023, though the National Directorate-General for Alien Policing will not decide before March 1, 2024. 

The validity expiration of residence permits and permanent residence between January 1, 2024, and February 29, 2024, will be extended naturally till April 30, 2024. 

For now, the law grants a guest worker residence permit to employees who are employed by specific employers, countries, and occupations. 

In addition, the guest work permit can now only be extended for 3 years. To extend the work permit, you need to submit a new application. Furthermore, the guest workers are not eligible for permanent resident or family sponsorship in Hungary.