In an era of expanding markets and interconnected economies, the quest for the best talent knows no borders. If you’re eager to harness international expertise and hire foreign workers in Hungary, this post is for you.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for hiring non-EU nationals in Hungary.
From understanding the prerequisites to applying for a worker permit, we will equip you with the knowledge and insights you need to make the most of your hiring process.
What You Need to Do to Hire Foreign Workers in Hungary
According to data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), more than 70% of the migrants are entering Hungary for work purposes.
Additionally, nearly half of the Hungarian companies are struggling to fill their vacancies.
This applies especially in industries such as IT and healthcare.
If you, too, are looking to hire non-EU nationals, you must ensure you comply with immigration laws and regulations.
The employment of foreign nationals in Hungary is governed by two pieces of legislation:
- Act II of 2007 on the Admission and Residence of Third-Country Nationals
- Government Decree 114/2007 (V. 24.) on the Implementation of Act II of 2007 on the Admission and Residence of Third-Country Nationals
As per these laws, non-EU nationals who want to work in Hungary for more than 90 days must obtain a single permit.
A single permit is a combined work and residence permit. This simplifies the application process and minimizes the number of required steps.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the process of hiring foreign workers in Hungary in just two simple steps.
Step 1: Find the Right Candidate
When you identify a skill gap that local workers can’t fill, it’s time to explore international talent.
To do so, you have a wide array of online resources to tap into. For instance, you may use online job platforms, candidate directories, or specialized recruitment agencies.
You may also want to consider platforms such as VideoWorkers, which house a vast talent pool eager to work abroad. These skilled individuals showcase their abilities through short videos, enabling you to streamline your hiring process and find the perfect match for the role.
Once you’ve found the perfect match, you can sign a preliminary work contract. This is a written agreement signed when parties don’t know the exact date on which the employee starts working.
After signing the work contract, you can assist your workers with their work and residence permit applications.
Step 2: Your Future Employee Applies for a Work and Residence Permit
Your future workers can obtain a work and residence permit in a single application procedure. The application includes the application for an entry visa as well.
As part of the application process, the employment authority in Hungary conducts a labor market test. The purpose of the test is to check whether there are Hungarian or EU nationals available to fill the position.
The required documents for a work and residence permit for Hungary are as follows:
- Application for Residence Permit and Appendix 9 (available on the website of the National Directorate General for Aliens Policing)
- Original passport
- Passport-size picture not older than 3 months
- Preliminary work contract
- Proof of sufficient means of subsistence (e.g., bank accounts, income certificates, etc.)
- Proof of accommodation in Hungary
- Adequate health insurance
- Documents showing the conditions of exit (valid passport or valid ticket for departure)
- Degree or qualification certificate
- Proof of paid fee (110 EUR)
Your future workers must submit the application to the competent Hungarian Diplomatic Mission in their home country.
In some cases, the documents may need to be translated into Hungarian and attested by OFFI, the Hungarian Office for Translation and Attestation.
Do note that the embassy reserves the right to request additional documents.
In most cases, the embassy will process the application within 70 days.
Can the Employer Apply for a Work and Residence Permit for Hungary?
Under specific circumstances, you can apply for a work and residence permit on behalf of your future employee.
Typically, these circumstances include:
- If you have concluded a strategic partnership agreement with the Hungarian government
- If you plan on employing Serbians or Ukrainians in hard-to-fill roles
- If you are listed in the register of qualified employment agencies
- If you’re implementing projects of strategic importance to the economy
In this case, you must submit the application electronically via Enter Hungary.
Before submitting the application, make sure you have written consent (power of attorney) from the candidate.
The processing time for an application submitted electronically is 60 days.
After Entering Hungary
After entering the country, your workers must carry with them the proof of registering their place of accommodation.
Upon registration, they must also notify the immigration authority within three days using their online system.
The immigration authority can be either:
- The regional directorate of the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing
- Any police station
Hiring Foreign Workers in Hungary: Final Considerations
Hiring foreign workers in Hungary offers a promising opportunity for businesses seeking diverse talent and growth.
Hungary’s strong economy and streamlined immigration procedures make it an attractive destination.
To succeed in this process, it’s crucial to navigate the legal requirements, plan your recruitment strategy, and provide support for seamless integration.
By following these steps and staying updated on regulations, you can harness the potential of foreign employees to contribute to your business’s success.
VdeoWorkers is the go-to platform that connects companies with candidates from every background and experience level. Create your free company account today to search for top-tier candidates, watch their skill presentation video, and make the perfect hire for your company.