Long-stay visas (Type D)
Hungarian Hungarian Card
A skilled-work residence permit for professionals in designated occupations, as well as athletes, coaches, performers and film-industry workers, allowing them to live and work in Hungary.
Important information
- Issuing authority
- National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF/NDGAP)
- Who qualifies
- Holders of a decree-listed professional qualification; athletes, coaches, performers, film-industry workers
- Validity
- Up to 3 years, renewable for further 3-year periods
- Decision deadline
- Within 70 days of submission
Who it's for
- Skilled workers whose profession is listed in the ministerial decree on qualifications
- Business owners or directors performing actual work in their own enterprise
- Professional athletes and coaches
- Performers and film-industry workers
Requirements
- Valid employment contract or binding job offer (or evidence of the qualifying activity)
- Professional qualification matching the position, or eligible athlete/coach/performer/film status
- Sufficient financial means for subsistence and healthcare
- Proof of accommodation in Hungary
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Valid passport (valid at least 3 months beyond the permit)
What you can do
- Live and work in Hungary in the specified capacity
- Renew for further 3-year periods
- Apply for family reunification
- Change status and build toward long-term residence
How to apply
Apply from abroad at a Hungarian consulate, or inside Hungary through the Enter Hungary platform or a regional directorate if you are visa-exempt. The authority confirms completeness within 21 days and issues a decision within 70 days.
Where the application is made from abroad, an approved applicant receives a single-entry Type D visa to enter Hungary and collect the Hungarian Card residence permit.
Documents
- Employment contract or preliminary agreement (or proof of qualifying activity)
- Proof of professional qualification or eligible status
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of health insurance
- Valid passport and one facial photograph
Frequently asked questions
The Hungarian Card is aimed at skilled talent and allows renewal, change of status, family reunification and a path to permanent residence. The guest-worker permit is short, capped at three years, and blocks family reunification, status changes and permanent residence.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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