🇭🇺
Immigration & residence in Hungary
Hungary's National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF) issues residence permits. Address cards are obtained separately from the district office.
Immigration offices in Hungary
OIF — National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing: Residence, long-stay visa. Kormányablak (Government Window): Address card, ID, general services. Hungarian Helsinki Committee: Free legal aid for foreigners.
Residence steps to prioritise
Get an address card (lakcímkártya): Register at Kormányablak within 3 days of moving in. Bring documents — Passport, residence card, landlord agreement signed. Free. Residence permit via OIF: For non-EEA — work, study, family, guest self-employed. Book on Enter Hungary — Fees €60–€110. Biometrics + card issued. EEA registration — EEA nationals register at OIF within 93 days — free. Access healthcare: Register with a háziorvos (GP) in your district. Choose a GP — Free to pick one accepting patients. Consultations free with TAJ.
Documents to keep ready
Prepare your passport, visa or residence card, birth and marriage certificates, address proof, health-insurance proof, job or study documents, and passport photos. In Hungary, officials may ask for originals, copies and certified translations.
If a decision is delayed or refused
Ask OIF — National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing for written confirmation that your application is pending. If you receive a refusal, read the appeal deadline immediately and contact a legal-aid organisation or migrant support office in Hungary.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Proof of purpose (job/study/family)
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Frequently asked questions
Which office should I contact first in Hungary?
Start with OIF — National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. For broader newcomer help, also check OIF — National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing, Kormányablak (Government Window), NAV — Tax & Customs Administration.
What language will offices use in Hungary?
The main administrative language is Hungarian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
How long does a residence permit take in Hungary?
Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the permit type and completeness of your documents.
Can I work while waiting for my permit?
In many cases yes, especially if you already hold a work-based permit. Rules differ by category — check with the migration authority before starting work.
What if my application is refused?
You almost always have the right to appeal. Free legal counselling is available through NGOs and, in some cases, publicly funded lawyers.
Ask TerraNowa