Moving to Hungary to study is an exciting adventure, but navigating the student permit process can feel daunting. As someone who has walked this path, I’m here to guide you through each step to make your application smooth and stress-free. And yes, I’ll even share my top picks for private insurance to keep you covered during your stay!

Why Study in Hungary?

Hungary is more than just breathtaking architecture and rich history. It’s also a hub for international students, offering affordable education and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, this guide is tailored to help you kickstart your academic journey in Hungary.

Step 1: Preparing Your Application

Your application begins with getting all your documents in order. Here’s what to do:

1. Fill Out the Application Form
   • Complete the application form and Appendix 9.13 accurately.
   • Scan the form, your passport, and other required documents into PDF format. Name each document according to its content (e.g., Passport.pdf, AdmissionLetter.pdf).
2. Submit via Email
   • Send your scanned documents to the consulate email address with your name as the subject line.
   • If your attachments are too large, split them into separate emails.
3. Wait for Confirmation
   • Once all documents are received, the consulate will confirm. Only then should you book an appointment. Incomplete submissions may result in cancellations!

Step 2: Booking and Attending Your Appointment

1. Use the consulate’s online system to book your appointment under Visa Application (Long-term, D Type).
2. On your scheduled date, visit the consulate.

Step 3: Required Documents for Your Appointment

Bring the original versions of the following:

1. Completed Application Form with Appendix 9.13.
2. Letter of Admission from your Hungarian host institution.
3. Proof of Tuition Payment.
4. Valid Passport (must exceed your planned stay by at least 3 months).
5. Passport-Sized Photo (recent, with a white background).
6. Travel Insurance (covering at least one month from your planned departure).
7. Proof of Accommodation (e.g., dorm acceptance, lease agreement).
8. Educational Degrees and Transcripts (in English, not verified).
9. Bank Statements (to prove financial stability).

Extra Notes for Bachelor’s and Master’s Students:

• Include certified bank statements (yours or your parent/guardian’s).
• Provide a commitment letter from your parent/guardian along with their ID or passport.

PhD Applicants:

Only your personal certified bank statements are required.

Step 4: Visa Fees and Timeline

• Pay the visa fee, payable in cash at the bank after submission.
• Processing time ranges from 3 to 6 weeks, so avoid purchasing tickets too early.

Step 5: Arriving in Hungary

Upon arrival:

• Your single-entry visa allows you to travel to Hungary.
• Within 15 days, apply for your residence permit at the immigration authority.

Stay Covered: Choosing Private Insurance

Health insurance is a must during your stay in Hungary. Based on my experience, here are the top two private insurance companies:

1. Generali: Known for its comprehensive coverage and user-friendly services.
   👉 Learn more
2. Medicover: Offers tailored plans for expats, students, and digital nomads. I personally used Medicover for six months and found it reliable and affordable.
   👉 Learn more

Final Thoughts

Applying for a student permit in Hungary may seem complex, but with proper preparation, it’s entirely manageable. From completing your application to choosing the right insurance, this guide covers all the essentials to help you start your academic journey on the right foot.

For more personalized support, reach out to JCE Consultancy at info@jceconsultancy.eu—your trusted partner for navigating life in Hungary.

Have questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below, and let’s make the expat journey a breeze together.

Until next time, stay wise and informed!

As of March 1st, 2024, Hungary has introduced a new law modification regarding residence permits for gainful activities, now termed as the Guest Self-Employed Visa. This significant update aims to facilitate independent work opportunities for third-country nationals, streamlining the process and providing clarity on eligibility criteria and application procedures.

Who Qualifies for the Guest Self-Employed Visa?

The Guest Self-Employed Visa is available for those who wish to engage in independent gainful activities or act as chief executives of business organizations within Hungary. This visa is open to third-country nationals, excluding EEA nationals and their family members, as well as stateless persons.

Application Process

Applicants have the flexibility to submit their applications both within and outside Hungary, depending on their circumstances. If applying from outside Hungary, the process involves submission before a diplomatic or consular foreign mission of Hungary. Alternatively, for those within Hungary, applications can be made electronically via the Enter Hungary platform or in person at the competent regional directorate.

Key Requirements and Documentation

To support their application, applicants need to provide various documents, including proof of self-employment registration, business contracts, financial resources, accommodation agreements, comprehensive health insurance, and documents verifying the conditions of exit.

Additional Required Documents

In addition to the aforementioned documents, applicants must provide the following:

1. Documents Verifying the Purpose of Residence:
   • Registration number of the self-employed person
   • Small-scale farmer/producer certificate
   • Detailed declaration of business activity
   • Contract of services, business, or user contract concluded as a private individual
   • Any other credible evidence.
2. Means of Subsistence in Hungary:
   • Certificate from a credit institution under the applicant’s name
   • Document on regular income issued by the tax authority
   • Any other credible evidence

If you are performing gainful activities as a registered self-employed person, certificates from the tax authority stating that your annual income from self-employment exceeds the current minimum wage 24 times and that you do not owe any taxes or contributions may serve as proof of your purpose of residence.

If you are acting as the chief executive of a business organization, you must have fulfilled your obligations to register all employees with the immigration authority and pay taxes and contributions.

Moreover, you must provide credible evidence, such as a business contract, contract of services, agreement, sales contract, or purchase contract, to support your detailed declaration of business activity (business plan)

1. Proof of Hungarian Accommodation:
   • Residential lease contract
   • Document on accommodation by courtesy
   • Document in proof of ownership of the residential property
   • Document in proof of the reservation of accommodation and payment for it.
2. Proof of Comprehensive Health Insurance:
   • Documentation proving access to comprehensive health insurance services or financial resources to cover healthcare costs
3. Conditions of Exit:
   • Valid passport or necessary permits for return travel
   • Valid ticket for departure or sufficient funds for a ticket

Extension and Validity

The Guest Self-Employed Visa lasts for one year and can be extended to an additional two years. The total length of stay cannot exceed three years from the date of first issuance.

Administrative Procedures and Fees

The administrative service fee for procedures is outlined separately, and the procedural administration typically takes 21 days. Additional documents may be requested for clarification purposes during the process.

Receiving the Residence Permit

Upon approval, applicants receive an entry visa enabling them to collect their residence permit. The permit is then delivered via post to the indicated address, with provisions for in-person collection under specific circumstances.

Important Considerations

Applicants should be mindful of their reporting obligations, exit conditions, and limitations on applying for other residence permits during the validity of the Guest Self-Employed Visa. Furthermore, family reunification and long-term residence implications are outlined for comprehensive understanding.

Applying for another type of residence permit during the validity period and after the date of expiry of the Guest Self-Employed Visa is not allowed in Hungary.

In terms of family reunification, for a year from the residence permit's issue, family members of the third-country national who is a holder of or an applicant for a residence permit for guest self-employment may not be granted a residence permit for family reunification, except for residence permits that are re-issued after three years.

Additionally, third-country nationals who are holders of a residence permit for guest self-employment may not be granted a national residence card for long-term residence.

Stay Covered: Choosing Private Insurance

Health insurance is a must during your stay in Hungary, If you do not have TAJ card, based on my experience, here are the top two private insurance companies:

1. Generali: Known for its comprehensive coverage and user-friendly services.
   👉 Learn more

2. Medicover: Offers tailored plans for expats, students, and digital nomads. I personally used Medicover for six months and found it reliable and affordable.
   👉 Learn more

Seek Assistance from JCE Consultancy

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 to self-employment in Hungary.

Enroll to our course on how to set up your business as a freelancer in Hungary: https://www.udemy.com/course/launch-your-online-business-in-hungary-as-a-digital-nomad/?referralCode=BF57EC786810378776D1

Buy my book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-freelancer-world-introvert-Entrepreneurial-ebook/dp/B0CNHXTN24

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.

Are you a full-time student or someone working more than 36 hours a week? If so, you might be navigating the world of part-time work and wondering about your tax obligations in Hungary. We're here to simplify the complexities and shed light on the nuances of being a flat-rate taxpayer. Let's delve into the details of the process for you.

Flat-Rate Taxation: The Basics

Flat-rate taxation in Hungary offers specific benefits to part-time workers, including students and individuals with full-time jobs. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

1. Tax Exemptions for Part-Time Workers

If you're a part-time worker and fall under the flat-rate taxpayer category, you enjoy significant exemptions. Specifically, once you meet the minimum tax base of HUF 2.32 million, you are exempt from paying social contribution tax and health security contributions. This means your initial earnings up to this threshold are entirely tax-free, providing you with financial breathing room as you pursue your studies or work diligently in your primary job.

2. Tax Responsibilities Beyond the Threshold

However, it's crucial to monitor your earnings. If your annual revenue surpasses HUF 2.32 million, you'll need to start paying taxes. At this point, you become liable for a 29.34% tax rate on your income. This rate includes various components:

• Social Security Contribution
• Social Contribution Tax
• Local Business Tax
• Personal Income Tax

Navigating Your Part-Time Work Journey

Understanding these tax regulations is essential for effective financial planning. Whether you're balancing your studies, honing your skills, or dedicating time to your primary job, being aware of your tax obligations empowers you to make informed decisions about your earnings and expenditures.

By staying informed and managing your finances wisely, you can make the most out of your part-time work experience. Remember, knowledge is the key to financial empowerment.

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the world of digital business in Hungary?

We're thrilled to introduce our new online course, "Create a Digital Business in Hungary," designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital landscape.

What's Inside? 🔍 11 Comprehensive Lessons

🎓 Digital Marketing Strategies

📚 In-Depth Taxation Systems

🌐 Insights on Residence Permit Types

Why This Course? 🕒 Duration: 90 Minutes

📌 Learn the Foundations for Starting an Online Business

Enroll to our course on how to set up your business as a freelancer in Hungary: https://www.udemy.com/course/launch-your-online-business-in-hungary-as-a-digital-nomad/?referralCode=BF57EC786810378776D1

Buy my book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-freelancer-world-introvert-Entrepreneurial-ebook/dp/B0CNHXTN24

Why Hungary? Hungary is a thriving hub for digital innovation, and understanding its business landscape is key to your success. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an experienced professional, this course is tailor-made for you.

Unlock Your Potential! Ready to elevate your entrepreneurial journey? Purchase the course now and unlock a world of possibilities.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your business dreams into reality. Act now and become a digital trailblazer in Hungary!

Update: Other type of residence permit doesn't exist anymore after the law modification on March 1st of 2024

Embarking on a self-employed journey in a new country can be both exciting and daunting. If you're considering becoming self-employed in Hungary with an other purpose permit, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and requirements. From obtaining the necessary permits to setting up your taxation, invoicing, and more, we've got you covered.

1.Preparation is Key: Letters of Intent or Contracts

Before transitioning from a gainful activity permit to an other purpose permit, it's crucial to secure your first clients. Having 1-2 letters of intent or contracts with Hungarian companies or individuals will demonstrate your commitment to starting your self-employed venture.

2. Getting Your TAX ID

Your journey begins with obtaining a Tax ID (TAX ID) from the National Tax and Customs Administration of Hungary (NAV). To acquire your TAX ID, visit your nearest NAV office with the following documents: your Passport, Residence Permit, and Address Form. This ID is essential for your tax-related obligations.

3.Creating an Ügyfélkapu Account

An Ügyfélkapu account (Client Gate) is essential for digital communication with Hungarian authorities. To get one, visit a Kormányablak building with your Passport, Residence Permit, and Address Form. This account will be integral for various administrative processes.

4.Understanding the Hungarian Standard Classification of Occupations Codes

Make sure to align your activities with the Hungarian Standard Classification of Occupations Codes. This is especially important if your work requires any special certification. You can find the complete list of activities and codes on the official Hungarian Central Statistical Office website: https://www.ksh.hu/docs/szolgaltatasok/eng/feor08/efeor08.pdf

5.Consider Your Taxation Type: TAJ Card

Depending on your chosen taxation type, you may need to consider obtaining a TAJ card, which is required for health insurance purposes. For instance, if you opt for KATA taxation (invoicing to individuals), you'll need the TAJ card before registering as self-employed. However, with GTR taxation (invoicing to companies), you can register first and acquire the TAJ card afterward.

6.Registering as Self-Employed and Selecting a Tax Type

With the guidance of an accountant, register as a self-employed individual and choose the appropriate tax type for your business. You can select either the KATA tax (for invoicing to individuals) or the GTR flat tax rate (for invoicing to companies). Your accountant will ensure you comply with all legal requirements.

7.Setting Up an Approved Invoicing System

Choose an invoicing system approved by NAV, such as Billingo, Billzone.eu, or Szamlazz. Connecting your account to the NAV system will streamline your invoicing and taxation processes.

8.Gathering Additional Documents to apply to gainful activity permit.

Depending on your situation, you may need additional documents for your application. These could include a business plan, a rental contract with the option to renew, a letter from your landlord granting permission for business activities at your premises, translated diplomas, six months of bank statements, a cover letter explaining your choice of Hungary for your business, and a recent passport-sized photo.

9.Navigating the Application Process

Complete the original and online forms on the EnterHungary website (https://enterhungary.gov.hu). Be sure to print out the payment receipt and appointment confirmation. Keep in mind that you must bring the originals of your documents to your appointment.

10.Seek Assistance When Needed

If the application process seems overwhelming, consider seeking assistance. Professionals can help you with tasks like preparing your business plan or guiding you through the application process, ensuring a smoother transition to self-employment. We can support you to go through this process!

Conclusion

Becoming self-employed in Hungary with an other purpose permit requires careful planning, adherence to legal requirements, and a clear understanding of the steps involved. By securing contracts, obtaining the necessary permits, selecting a taxation type, and complying with invoicing and documentation procedures, you can navigate this exciting endeavor successfully. Remember, seeking professional assistance when needed can alleviate challenges and help you realize your self-employed dreams in Hungary.

Contact us to get a quote!

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the world of digital business in Hungary?

We're thrilled to introduce our new online course, "Create a Digital Business in Hungary," designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital landscape.

What's Inside? 🔍 11 Comprehensive Lessons

🎓 Digital Marketing Strategies

 📚 In-Depth Taxation Systems

🌐 Insights on Residence Permit Types

Why This Course? 🕒 Duration: 90 Minutes

📌 Learn the Foundations for Starting an Online Business

Enroll to our course on how to set up your business as a freelancer in Hungary: https://www.udemy.com/course/launch-your-online-business-in-hungary-as-a-digital-nomad/?referralCode=BF57EC786810378776D1

Why Hungary? Hungary is a thriving hub for digital innovation, and understanding its business landscape is key to your success. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an experienced professional, this course is tailor-made for you.

Unlock Your Potential! Ready to elevate your entrepreneurial journey? Purchase the course now and unlock a world of possibilities.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your business dreams into reality. Act now and become a digital trailblazer in Hungary!

6 months before the expiration of my student residence permit, I started to question myself What should I do with my life after graduation? Should I be employed or should I be self-employed?

As an expat, I had been employed by several foreign companies and I got many work permits. However, one disadvantage of work permits is that your residence permit depends on your employer. Meaning that, if the company decides to fire you or you quit your job, you will have x number of days to find another company that will sponsor your visa. Additionally, I wanted to be my own boss and persuade my long time desired ‘’financial freedom’’.  So being self-employed was the only option for me.

Hungary is one of the few countries in EU that allows you to perform gainful activity (as part – time) with student residence permit. According to the Hungarian immigration office website: ‘’A third-country national has the right for the pursuit of a gainful activity and to engage in employment. If you hold a residence permit for the purpose of pursuing studies: you are not required to obtain a residence permit for the purpose of pursuing a gainful activity or employment during the time of study;

Third-country nationals holding a residence permit for the purpose of studies may engage in any full-time occupational activity during their term-time for maximum 24 hours weekly, and outside their term-time for a maximum period of 90 days or 66 working days in a year.’’

Now let me just break-down the steps of how I change from student residence permit to gainful activity permit:

1. First, I had to figure out what the hell I want to do. I asked myself: Which are my strengths? What services can I offer? To Whom I can offer? Then, when I answered these questions, I checked on the Hungarian standard classification of occupations codes,  whether I need a special certification or not. You can see the full list of activities and codes on this website: https://www.ksh.hu/docs/szolgaltatasok/eng/feor08/efeor08.pdf     

   Luckily, my activities didn’t need any special permit or certification, so now I could move to the second step.

2. I got a TAX ID: I went to nearest NAV office and ask for account autonomous Tax ID. I brought the following documents: Passport, Residence permit and address form.

3. Then, I apply for an Ügyfélkapu account. To get your client gate account, you should go to the closest Kormányablak building. Bring your Passport, residence permit and address form.

4. The hardest step was to get a TAJ card. As a student, if you are not lucky enough to be under scholarship, then you have two options: either to apply through a job or internship or make an agreement with OEP office.                           

   Scenario A- Applying through a job: Bring to the OEP office your Contract, photocopy of: passport, residence permit, Tax ID and accommodation form. Your employer should fill out: NYT.52 and NYT.53 forms                                             

   Scenario B- Applying through an agreement with OEP: This is the hardest one, you will be interrogated a lot and mainly you will need to justify why you want that option and not a private insurance. If you are able to pass the hard interview process you will get a pre-agreement and further health examinations must be done. As per 2020 fees, you will have to pay monthly 50.000 HUF as a student, and it will only cover emergency services.

5. Discuss with your accountant which taxation system (GTR or SZJA) is better for you. We will discuss this in another post.

6. Once you get your TAJ number, TAX ID and Ügyfélkapu account your accountant will filled out some formularies at www.mo.hu.

7. Choose an invoicing system approved by NAV (billingo, billzone.eu, szamlazz) and connect your account to NAV system.

8. If you completed the above steps, now finally you can start invoicing!

What really helped me to get my gainful activity permit, for one year and a half (on the first application) was that I invoiced to several Hungarian clients (individuals and companies) and I was able to show to the immigration office that I had already an income and my business was running. Also, I got some letter or emails of intentions from other clients.

Additional documents that I needed for my gainful residence permit application were:

1. Business plan: Check our business plan article on this link

2. Rental contract for one year, with option to renew it.

3. A letter from your landlord, where it states that they approve you to perform a gainful activity on your flat.

4. Diplomas translated by OFFI

5. 6 months bank statements

6. A cover letter: explaining why I selected Hungary to be the location of my business.

7. A passport size photo taken less than 3 month.

8. I filled out the original and online forms of https://enterhungary.gov.hu

9.  I printed out the payment receipt of the application at EnterHungary website and the appointment confirmation.

Note: On your appointment day, do not forget to bring the originals of your documents!

If you are too lazy to prepare your business plan or if you are fearful of this demanding application, contact us to get a quote!

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the world of digital business in Hungary?

We're thrilled to introduce our new online course, "Create a Digital Business in Hungary," designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital landscape.

What's Inside? 🔍 11 Comprehensive Lessons

🎓 Digital Marketing Strategies

 📚 In-Depth Taxation Systems

🌐 Insights on Residence Permit Types

Why This Course? 🕒 Duration: 90 Minutes

📌 Learn the Foundations for Starting an Online Business

Enroll to our course on how to set up your business as a freelancer in Hungary: https://www.udemy.com/course/launch-your-online-business-in-hungary-as-a-digital-nomad/?referralCode=BF57EC786810378776D1

Buy my book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-freelancer-world-introvert-Entrepreneurial-ebook/dp/B0CNHXTN24

Why Hungary? Hungary is a thriving hub for digital innovation, and understanding its business landscape is key to your success. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an experienced professional, this course is tailor-made for you.

Unlock Your Potential! Ready to elevate your entrepreneurial journey? Purchase the course now and unlock a world of possibilities.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your business dreams into reality. Act now and become a digital trailblazer in Hungary!