It is a common misconception that if you are a third-country national staying in Hungary with a residence permit based on employment (a work permit), you MUST switch to family unification when you are getting married. Actually, the issue is more complex, and depends on the nationality of your spouse.
Family unification vs. work permit
Regularly, family unification is available for the spouse (and minor children) of any citizen and residence permit holder in Hungary. A residence permit based on family unification does NOT allow you to enter employment, so if you are a third-country national working as an employee in Hungary, it makes no sense to switch to family unification unless you want to quit your job.
The nationality of your spouse
When you are getting married, there are three possible scenarios based on the nationality of your spouse:
- Your spouse is a third-country national
- Your spouse is an EU citizen
- Your spouse is a Hungarian citizen
1. If your spouse is a third-country national like you
When you are getting married to a third-country national like yourself, your status in Hungary will not change, so your residency will continue to be based on employment. There is no need for a new permit, but you do have to report a change to your address if that applies. If only your name changes, you have to report it only when you are renewing your permit.
2. If your spouse is an EU citizen
When getting married to an EU citizen, your rights will get extended. You must report the change in your marital status (and name and address, if that applies), and apply for “residency for the family member of an EU citizen”. Your new permit will
- be valid for 5 years
- provide you an address card
- let you work anywhere in Hungary
3. If your spouse is a Hungarian citizen
When you are getting married to a Hungarian citizen, your status in Hungary will not change, so your residency will continue to be based on employment. There is no need for a new permit, but you do have to report a change to your address if that applies. If only your name changes, you have to report it only when you are renewing your permit.
Need any help with your work permit?
Whether you need to change your work permit upon getting married in Hungary depends on the nationality of your spouse. Your work permit may well remain the same, although you do have to report changes to your data.
Our team has 15+ years of experience with assisting foreigners in Hungary with their residency and work permit related issues. Let us know if you need any guidance, and we will be happy to help you too. Contact us through the form, or follow our Facebook page for up to date information for expats living and working in Hungary.