The National Card is one of the best options for third-country nationals who want to work or do business in Hungary. It is available only to certain nationalities, but the list has just got extended.
The Hungarian National Card summed up
Since the new Hungarian immigration came into force in January 2024, the National Card (or “Nemzeti Kártya” in Hungarian) is one of the most attractive Hungarian residency options as it offers various benefits compared to the regular work permit.
| National Card | Residence permit for the purpose of employment | |
| Qualifications | No special requirements, only relevant to the job | No special requirements, only relevant to the job |
| Validity | Valid for 2 years, may be extended for another 3 | Valid for 2 years, may be extended up to 3 years |
| Family unification | Available | Not available |
| Permanent residency | Available after 3 years | Not available |
| Status change from within Hungary | Available | Not available |
Unlike most other residence permits relevant to third-country nationals working in Hungary, the National Card offers the option for family unification, so the applicant may bring along their spouse and underage children. Moreover, after paying taxes in Hungary for at least 3 years, they become eligible for permanent residency, which offers additional benefits. At the same time, if a status change becomes necessary for your employee or their family members, they can take care of it within Hungary, without traveling back to their country of origin.
List of eligible countries extended
While the National Card offers various major benefits, it has an important drawback: it is only available to the nationals of a select few countries. However, thanks to a recent change, that list is now extended. As a result, the National Card is available not only to the citizens of Serbia and Ukraine nationals, but to many more countries:
- Belarus
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Russia
- Serbia
- Ukraine
The best work permit in Hungary
If your prospective employee is from one of the above countries, they are eligible for the National Card. If you choose this type of residency when putting together their work permit application, you can offer your employee significant benefits, which may increase their commitment to your Hungarian business.
Work with the best
Helpers is Hungary’s leading provider of business and immigration solutions. With 20 years of experience and a committed team of 20+ professionals we would be happy to help your employees get their work permit in Hungary, regardless whether it is a regular work permit, a National Card, or another type.
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