Blog • Published on:June 30, 2025 | Updated on:June 30, 2025 • 6 Min
Hungary is now one of the most preferred destinations for long-term residency in Europe. With its Schengen access, affordable cost of living, and straightforward immigration rules, it appeals to families, professionals, and students alike.
Whether you're relocating for work, reuniting with family, or eyeing eventual citizenship, Hungary offers multiple clear paths to permanent residency.
And in 2025, things are shifting. A new cultural integration exam is now part of the process, signalling Hungary's growing focus on long-term community ties, not just paperwork.
In this guide, we break down every step: from visa types and eligibility rules to costs, timelines, and what PR really gives you.
Hungarian Permanent Residency (PR) allows non-EU nationals to live in Hungary without time limits. Once granted, it removes the need for annual renewals and gives access to key rights similar to Hungarian citizens, minus voting in national elections.
Yes, but with limits:
Hungary offers several routes to permanent residency (PR), each with specific criteria and timelines. Below is an overview of the primary pathways:
Immediate family members of Hungarian citizens or permanent residents can apply for PR through family reunification. Eligibility includes spouses, minor children, and dependent parents. The typical waiting period is:
Applicants must demonstrate genuine familial ties and cohabitation. Note that certain temporary permit holders, such as students or seasonal workers, may not sponsor family reunification.
High-skilled professionals with valid employment contracts in Hungary can pursue PR after three years of continuous residence.
Qualifying permits include:
Applicants must maintain uninterrupted employment and residence during this period.
The Hungary Golden Visa program allows non-EU nationals to obtain a 10-year residence permit through investment:
After three years of continuous residence, investors may apply for PR, provided they have not been absent from Hungary for more than four consecutive months or 270 days in total during this period.
While studying in Hungary grants temporary residence, it does not directly lead to PR. However, graduates can transition to other permit types:
It's important to note that time spent solely on a student permit does not count towards the PR residency requirement.
To secure permanent residency (PR) in Hungary in 2025, applicants must meet specific criteria and be prepared for associated costs. Here's a concise overview:
Permanent residents can apply for Hungarian citizenship after 8 years of continuous legal stay. The process requires a clean criminal record, stable income, proof of integration, and passing a Hungarian language exam.
Spouses of Hungarian citizens and parents of Hungarian-born children may apply after 3 years.
Hungary permits dual citizenship, so renouncing your original nationality is not required.
Certain groups may qualify for permanent residency faster or under simplified rules:
To keep your Hungarian PR valid, you must reside in Hungary for most of the year. Leaving the country for over six consecutive months or more than 270 days in a 3-year span can lead to revocation.
PR cards themselves are valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiration, but the residency status remains indefinite if conditions are met.
If you commit a serious crime, falsify documents, or are found to have obtained PR through deception, authorities can revoke your status. Additionally, failure to maintain a registered address or valid travel document may also result in cancellation.
Renewals are generally straightforward if you’ve complied with residency and legal requirements.
You must legally reside in Hungary for at least 3 continuous years under a qualifying permit. Student, seasonal, or digital nomad permits do not count.
Yes. If you’re absent for over 6 months continuously or more than 270 days in 3 years, your PR can be revoked.
Yes. From 2025, all applicants must pass a Hungarian cultural knowledge exam, which includes basic language understanding.
No. Hungarian PR allows Schengen travel, but not the right to work or live in other EU countries without additional permits.
Yes. Most applicants qualify after 8 years of continuous residence with PR. Some, like spouses of citizens, may qualify in 3 years.
National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. (2025). Permanent Residence Card. Referred from: https://oif.gov.hu/factsheets/permanent-residence-card
National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. (2025). Procedural Fees. Referred from: https://oif.gov.hu/factsheets/procedural-fees
Enter Hungary – Ministry of Interior. (2025). Residence in Hungary [tajekoztato/en]. Referred from: https://enterhungary.gov.hu/eh/?en=
Written By
Laura Weber
Laura Weber is a legal expert in international tax planning and citizenship by investment. With over a decade of experience, Laura helps individuals and families navigate complex legal frameworks to secure dual citizenship and global residency options, particularly in the Caribbean and Europe.