Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Hungary was a meticulous process that required careful planning, organization, and attention to detail. Here’s a detailed account of my experience and the steps I took to secure my residency.

Document Submission

I applied for my permanent residence permit via the Enter Hungary portal, which streamlined the submission process. The documents I submitted were comprehensive, covering all necessary aspects to support my application. Here’s a breakdown of what was required:

1. Accommodation Reporting Form or QR Code
2. Official Translation of Birth Certificate and Apostille: Since my birth certificate needed to be recognized in Hungary, I included an apostille, a simplified process of attestation accepted in 105 member countries of the Hague Convention. Click here to see the countries under Hague Convention. For countries not part of the Hague Convention, a three-step process involving notarization, authentication, and legalization is required. Additionally, I had to translate both the birth certificate and apostille at OFFI.
3. Hungarian Marriage Certificate: As I am married, I included my Hungarian marriage certificate. For those whose marriages took place abroad, the original certificate, its apostille, and official translations are necessary.
4. One-Year Bank Statements: It is recommended to have around 6-7 million forints for one year, depending on your monthly costs.
5. Criminal Record and Apostille: Along with the official translation, I submitted my criminal record and its apostille.
6. Curriculum Vitae: A detailed CV highlighting my professional experience, educational background, reasons for moving to Hungary, contributions to Hungarian society, and efforts to learn the language.
7. Letters of Recommendation: Letters from Hungarian friends and family attesting to my integration into society.
8. Educational Diplomas, Certificates of Volunteering Works in Hungary: Copies of my bachelor’s, certificates of volunteering jobs, and master’s diplomas along with their official translations.
9. Notarized Rent Contract: A notarized copy of my rental agreement, signed by two witnesses.
10. NAV Certificate: Proof of taxable income for the past year and three months prior to the application.
11. Husband’s Income Certificate: An income certificate from my husband’s employer and his NAV certificate for the past year.
12. TAJ Card: A copy of my Hungarian health insurance card.
13. Application Form: A scanned copy of the application for a permanent residence permit, complete with my signature, facial photograph, and the landlord’s signature on page 4.
14. Bank Balances: Statements of current investments in both Hungary and abroad for the past year.
15. Full copy of my passport pages: I scanned all passport and I uploaded it without hungarian translation.

Application and Follow-Up

I submitted my application on December 26th via the Enter Hungary portal. The next day, I visited the Budafoki immigration office to complete the biometric process. By the end of February 2024, I received a letter indicating missing documents, despite having submitted everything initially. I had 15 days to resubmit these documents via Enter Hungary. To ensure there were no further issues, I also sent them via email and delivered physical copies to the Szegedi út immigration office in Budapest.

Approval and Final Steps

On March 8th, 2024, I received a letter confirming the approval of my permanent residence permit. The card was expected to arrive within 2-3 weeks, and I received it on March 28th.

However, my journey didn’t end there. At the end of June, I received another letter from the local government office, notifying me that they were aware that my permanent residence permit had been issued and they requested that I bring my birth certificate with translation, the permanent residence permit, passport, address form, and marriage certificate to their office, along with a translator. After presenting these documents, I received my address card and was informed that my foreign ID card would arrive within two weeks via post.

Reflections

The process of obtaining a permanent residence permit in Hungary was intricate and required diligent preparation. Each document played a crucial role in verifying my eligibility and commitment to integrating into Hungarian society. Despite a few hiccups along the way, such as the request for missing documents, the support from both the Enter Hungary portal and the immigration offices was invaluable.

I am now proud to call Hungary my home, and I look forward to continuing my journey here. If you have doubts about how to deal with these processes, you can contact us to inquire about an offer for permanent residence application!

Hungary offers residence permits for third-country nationals engaged in public interest volunteer work within the country. These permits provide a pathway for individuals who prioritize contributing to societal welfare through various voluntary engagements in Hungary. It's crucial to understand the permits' validity period fully, the conditions guiding their extension, and the procedural guidelines enforced by Hungarian authorities.

Validity Period: The validity period of residence permits for voluntary activities depends on the voluntary engagement's nature and the contractual agreement between the individual and the host organization. Hungarian authorities cap the maximum validity of these permits at two years to ensure a reasonable timeframe for a volunteer's stay while maintaining regulatory oversight. Simultaneously, every permit issued under this regulation must be valid for at least six months or, where appropriate, maximally one year.

As with other residence permits, authorities consider the validity of the volunteer's travel document, which must remain valid for at least three months beyond the permit's expiry date. This precautionary measure aims to avoid any complications or disruptions arising due to expired travel documents during a volunteer's stay in Hungary.

Extension Procedures: Extension of a residence permit for voluntary activities requires compliance with specific criteria and procedural guidelines outlined by the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP). The extension process is applicable solely within the territory of Hungary, underscoring the importance of compliance and continuity in a volunteer's engagement.

To be eligible for an extension, the volunteer must fulfill the following conditions:

1. Valid residence permit: The applicant must possess a valid residence permit at the time of submitting their extension application.
2. Residence history: The volunteer should have resided in Hungary for at least 90 days within any 180-day period, demonstrating a commitment to their voluntary activities and integration into Hungarian society.

The extension application must be submitted at least 30 days before the existing residence permit expires, allowing ample time for administrative processing and review by the authorities.

In terms of documentation, the applicant must ensure the accuracy and completeness of all required attachments, including proof of continued engagement with the host organization, financial stability, health insurance coverage, and means of subsistence. Any deficiencies or additional documentation requested by the NDGAP must be promptly addressed to facilitate a smooth extension process.

Seek Assistance from JCE Consultancy

Navigating the complexities of visa applications can be challenging. If you require guidance through the application process, contact JCE Consultancy. Our team can help you understand the immigration procedures and ensure a smooth transition in Hungary.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is general information and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, consult with our immigration experts or legal professionals.

Do you dream of owning property in Hungary as a foreign citizen? With the right information and support, that dream can become a reality. Navigating the loan and support systems may seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge, you can confidently take the steps towards owning your dream home in Hungary. This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights into the process, ensuring you're well-prepared to embark on your real estate journey.

Eligibility Criteria:

The first step towards securing a loan in Hungary is establishing lawful residence in the country. EU citizens can certify their permanent stay with a registration card, while third-country nationals need a permanent residence permit after three years of continuous stay. These applications are processed through the immigration office, setting the stage for your loan application.

Hungarian Address Card, Verified Income, and Property Value:

Once residency is confirmed, obtaining a Hungarian address card is essential. This document verifies your permanent residence address, a prerequisite for all loan applications. Additionally, you'll need to demonstrate verifiable income and, for mortgages, provide details of a property with market value.

Real Estate Acquisition:

Third-country nationals must adhere to additional regulations when acquiring real estate in Hungary, including obtaining official permits. While this may seem like a hurdle, these permits are typically a formality, albeit with some processing time required.

Loan Options:

Hungarian banks offer a range of lending terms, with some catering exclusively to Hungarian-speaking clients and others extending services to foreign borrowers. Researching and comparing loan products is key to finding the right fit for your needs.

State Subsidies and CSOK:

Hungary provides various state subsidies for property plans, particularly targeting families and couples planning to expand. The Hungarian family housing allowance, CSOK, offers non-refundable allowances and favorable interest rates for property purchases. However, eligibility criteria changes in 2024 signal a shift in priorities, favoring rural investment options. While the maximum amount of CSOK will increase, eligibility for certain benefits will be restricted, particularly in urban areas with populations exceeding 5,000. Additionally, the age limit for women applying for the prenatal loan will be reduced to 30 from 40, reflecting the government's intention to encourage earlier family planning and rural investment.

Expert Guidance:

Navigating the complexities of Hungarian real estate investment is made easier with expert guidance. JCE Consultancy, in partnership with Selling Budapest, offer comprehensive support throughout the loan, residence permit application and property acquisition process. From loan applications to property selection, their expertise ensures a seamless experience for buyers.

For individuals navigating the complex landscape of immigration regulations, Hungary offers two key pathways to permanent residency: the EC Permanent Residence Permit (EC PRP) and the National Permanent Residence Permit (N-PRP). While both provide long-term residency rights, each has distinct eligibility criteria, application processes, and rights and obligations attached. In this article, we'll delve into the nuances of these permits to help you understand which might be the best fit for your circumstances.

Eligibility Criteria:

EC Permanent Residence Permit (EC PRP):

• Requires continuous legal residence in Hungary for at least five years (or two years with an EU Blue Card).
• Applicants must meet general residency conditions, including place of abode, financial stability, and health insurance.
• Exceptions include individuals under diplomatic or personal immunity, refugees, asylum-seekers, and those in seasonal employment or voluntary service activities.

National Permanent Residence Permit (N-PRP):

• Available to third-country nationals who have legally resided in Hungary for at least three years.
• Applicants must not have entered Hungary with or joined an EEA citizen as a family member.
• Continuous legal residence and possession of a valid Hungarian residence permit are required.

Application Process:

EC Permanent Residence Permit (EC PRP):

• Application process involves similar steps to the N-PRP, including online submission through the Enter Hungary platform.
• Stricter requirements for continuous legal residence apply.

National Permanent Residence Permit (N-PRP):

• Applied for online through the Enter Hungary platform.
• Requires a lower threshold of continuous residence compared to the EC PRP.

Rights and Obligations:

EC Permanent Residence Permit (EC PRP):

• Valid for five years, with the possibility of extension.
• Grants indefinite residence in Hungary and visa-free travel within Schengen Member States.
• Provides employment rights without the need for additional permits.
• Withdrawal conditions include prolonged absence from the EU or Hungary, or obtaining long-term resident status in another EU country.

National Permanent Residence Permit (N-PRP):

• Issued for 5 years period of time.
• Entitles holders to indefinite stay in Hungary and free job mobility.
• Provides eligibility for Hungarian national ID and address card.
• Withdrawal conditions include significant changes in personal circumstances, prolonged absence from Hungary, or misleading the immigration authority.

Choosing the Right Permit:

When deciding between the EC PRP and N-PRP, it's essential to consider your current situation and long-term goals. The EC PRP may be preferable for individuals seeking broader mobility within the EU, while the N-PRP offers a simpler path to permanent residency with fewer stringent requirements.

Ultimately, both permits provide valuable pathways to secure your status in Hungary and enjoy the benefits of long-term residence. Understanding the differences between them will empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations for the future.

In the intricate web of immigration laws and regulations, understanding the nuances of family reunification is paramount for those seeking to reside in Hungary as third-country national family members of EEA nationals. Let's delve deeper into the eligibility criteria and definitions surrounding family life in the context of Hungarian immigration.

Defining Family Life

Family life, a cornerstone of immigration policy, is considered to exist when the third-country national applicant lives in the same household as a third-country national who has been granted immigrant, permanent resident, or refugee status. This definition underscores the importance of maintaining familial bonds and ensuring the unity of families, even in the realm of immigration.

Expanded Definition of Family Members

To provide clarity and inclusivity, the definition of family members extends beyond traditional notions. In addition to spouses of EEA nationals and Hungarian citizens, it encompasses:

• Direct descendants of EEA nationals and Hungarian citizens under the age of 21 years or dependents.
• Dependent direct relatives in the ascending line of EEA nationals and Hungarian citizens.
• Persons who have parental custody of a minor child who is a Hungarian citizen.
• Any person authorized by the competent immigration authority on grounds of family reunification.
• Partners with whom EEA nationals or Hungarian citizens have entered into registered partnerships before relevant Hungarian or EU authorities.

This expansive definition recognizes the diverse familial structures and relationships that exist in modern society, ensuring that no eligible family member is left behind.

Understanding EEA Nationals

The term "EEA national" encompasses citizens of Member States of the European Union, excluding Hungarian citizens, as well as citizens of any State that is a party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area. This includes citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, highlighting the interconnectedness of European nations and the shared principles of free movement and residency.

Additional Information

Third-country family members of EEA nationals have the right to work and be self-employed in Hungary without having to re-apply for a new residence permit. Additionally, Hungarian authorities consider family life to be in existence when a third-country national applicant lives in the same household as a third-country national who has been granted immigrant, permanent resident, or refugee status.

Seek Assistance from JCE Consultancy

Navigating the complexities of visa applications can be challenging. If you require guidance through the application process, contact JCE Consultancy. Our team can help you understand the immigration procedures and ensure a smooth transition in Hungary.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is general information and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, consult with our immigration experts or legal professionals.