How long must I live in Hungary before qualifying?

The main route requires at least three years of continuous, lawful residence. Shorter periods can apply for certain family members, and there are separate routes for spouses, former Hungarian citizens and descendants of Hungarian citizens.

Do all residence permits count toward it?

No. Time spent on permits for employment, study, training, internship, medical treatment or voluntary service does not on its own qualify for the National Residence Card.

How long is the card valid?

The status is indefinite, but the physical card is issued for up to ten years and can be renewed for further ten-year periods through Enter Hungary.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Hungarian National Residence Card (Long-Term Residence)

Indefinite settlement status for third-country nationals who have completed several years of continuous legal residence in Hungary, securing a permanent right to remain.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Hungary government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issuing authority: National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF/NDGAP)
Main qualifying route: At least 3 years of continuous, lawful residence in Hungary
Right granted: Indefinite residence
Card validity: Up to 10 years, renewable for further 10-year periods

Who it's for

Long-term residents who have lived lawfully and continuously in Hungary for at least 3 years
Dependent family members (1+ year) living with a Hungarian citizen or long-term resident
Spouses married at least 2 years before applying
Former Hungarian citizens or descendants of Hungarian citizens, and minor children of a long-term resident or refugee

Requirements

Qualifying period of continuous lawful residence, or a qualifying family/ancestry link
Guaranteed housing and means of subsistence in Hungary
Comprehensive health insurance
No criminal record (unless exempted) and no security concerns or entry ban
Stay consistent with Hungary's interests

What you can do

Reside in Hungary indefinitely
Hold a card valid up to 10 years and renew it for further 10-year periods
Enjoy a stable status not tied to a single employer or study programme

How to apply

Applications are submitted through the Enter Hungary electronic platform. The application is treated as received once the fee is paid and biometrics are provided, which must be done within 15 days.

The standard administrative processing time is 70 days (with a fast-track for newborns). Exceptional national-interest cases may be decided by the responsible minister.

Documents

Proof of the qualifying residence period or family/ancestry link
Proof of housing and subsistence
Proof of health insurance
Valid passport
Police/criminal-record evidence as required

Frequently asked questions

The main route requires at least three years of continuous, lawful residence. Shorter periods can apply for certain family members, and there are separate routes for spouses, former Hungarian citizens and descendants of Hungarian citizens.

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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