Important Update on Employment-Based and Guest Worker Residence Permits in Hungary 2025
Changes Regarding Work Visas in Hungary – New Government Decree No. 450/2024
On December 23, 2024, the Hungarian government published Government Decree No. 450/2024. (XII. 23.) concerning the employment of guest workers in Hungary. This decree, which entered into force on January 1, 2025, introduces significant changes to work visa regulations for third-country nationals.
Key Updates:
-
Eligible Countries for Guest Worker Permits:
- Citizens of Georgia and Armenia listed in Annex 1 of the decree can be employed in Hungary with:
- A Residence Permit for Employment Purposes.
- A Residence Permit for Guest Workers.
- Citizens of Georgia and Armenia listed in Annex 1 of the decree can be employed in Hungary with:
-
Conditions for Employment of Third-Country Nationals:
- A third-country national may be employed in Hungary if:
- They hold a valid Residence Permit for Employment Purposes or a Guest Worker Residence Permit.
- Their country has an organisation or office recognised by the Hungarian state that ensures the individual’s departure from Hungary in case of non-compliance with Hungarian and EU legislation on entry and residence.
- The Minister Responsible for Foreign Policy will publish the list of eligible countries under this condition in an official notice.
- A third-country national may be employed in Hungary if:
-
Suspension of Work Visa Applications:
- Effective January 1, 2025, work visa applications for employment purposes are temporarily suspended until further notice.
- This suspension aligns with the new regulatory framework and affects all third-country nationals not covered under the abovementioned conditions.
Official Announcement:
For detailed information, visit the official statement published on the Hungarian Immigration Office’s website: Immigration Updates – Government Decree No. 450/2024.
Difference Between Employment-Based Residence Permit and Guest Worker Residence Permit in Hungary
Hungary offers two residence permits for foreign nationals based on the purpose of employment. These permits serve different categories of workers and have specific eligibility criteria and purposes. Below is a comparison:
1. Employment-Based Residence Permit
-
Purpose:
For third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) employed in Hungary by a local employer under a standard employment contract. -
Eligibility:
- Must have a job offer from a Hungarian employer.
- The employer must demonstrate that no suitable EU/EEA citizens are available for the job.
-
Requirements:
- Signed employment contract.
- Proof of qualifications or skills required for the job.
- Valid passport and health insurance.
-
Duration:
Valid for the length of the employment contract, up to 2 years, with the possibility of renewal. -
Processing Time:
Generally, it takes 30–70 days, depending on the complexity of the case. -
Target Group:
Skilled or white-collar workers are employed directly by Hungarian companies.
2. Guest Worker Residence Permit
-
Purpose:
Third-country nationals are recruited as temporary workers, typically to address labour shortages in specific sectors such as construction, agriculture, or manufacturing. -
Eligibility:
- Restricted to citizens of specific countries listed in Annex 1 of relevant government decrees.
- Often tied to bilateral agreements between Hungary and the worker's home country.
-
Requirements:
- Proof of employment with a company participating in the guest worker program.
- Valid passport and temporary employment contract.
- Guarantee of return to the home country after the permit expires.
-
Duration:
Valid for a maximum of 2 years, with fewer options for renewal compared to employment-based permits. -
Processing Time:
Typically faster, around 30–45 days. -
Target Group:
Blue-collar workers or temporary workers addressing Hungary's labor shortages.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Employment-Based Permit | Guest Worker Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Long-term skilled employment | Temporary labor shortages |
| Eligibility | Open to all third-country nationals | Limited to specific nationalities |
| Target Group | Skilled/white-collar workers | Blue-collar/temporary workers |
| Renewal Options | Easier and more flexible | Limited renewal opportunities |
| Sector | All sectors | Labor shortage sectors only |
| Processing Time | Longer | Faster |
| Home Country Guarantee | Not required | Required |
Conclusion
- Employment-Based Residence Permits are ideal for long-term, skilled positions, while
- Guest Worker Permits cater to temporary workers, particularly for roles in high-demand industries.
Applicants and employers should carefully assess their needs and ensure compliance with the eligibility criteria before applying.
