Quick answer
To apply for an EU Blue Card in Hungary, you need a valid work contract of at least 6 months for highly qualified employment, meet the salary threshold (9,283,788 HUF/year or 7,427,028 HUF for shortage occupations), have higher education or relevant professional experience, and provide documents such as passport, photo, health insurance, proof of accommodation, and financial means . Hungary applies a labour market test . The card is valid for 1–4 years (or contract +3 months) . Processing takes up to 90 days and costs 38,000 HUF (national) / 26,000 HUF (electronic) .
Requirements
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Requirements in detail
You must have a binding job offer or work contract for highly qualified employment lasting at least 6 months.
Gross annual salary must be at least 9,283,788 HUF (or 773,649 HUF per month).
If your profession is on Hungary's 2019 shortage list, the minimum salary threshold is reduced to 7,427,028 HUF/year.
You must prove that you meet the required professional qualifications for your job.
For regulated professions, present documents proving compliance with national legal requirements.
For unregulated professions, present documents proving higher professional qualifications (e.g., diploma).
Present a valid travel document, apply for a visa if necessary, and provide a valid residence permit or national long-term visa if applicable.
Provide proof of sickness insurance or proof that you have applied for it.
You must not pose a threat to public policy in Hungary.
You may be required to provide your address in Hungary.
Hungary applies a labour market test, so your employer must have searched for EU/EEA workers before hiring you.
Initial fee is 38,000 HUF (or 26,000 HUF via electronic system).
Documents you'll need
Application form
- Application form and Appendix 9.9 duly filled out in English and signed on site with blue ink .
Photo
- One recent passport photo (35mm x 45mm, well‑contrasted, straight face, mouth closed) .
Passport
- Valid passport (at least two empty visa pages, valid ≥3 months after departure, issued within last 10 years) plus copy of biometric page .
Residence proof
- Proof of legal residence in current country (e.g., residence permit or British passport) .
Employment and qualification
- Employment contract or preliminary agreement for at least 6 months, plus document certifying higher education or professional qualification . For ICT/executive positions, 3 years of relevant experience may substitute .
Financial means
- Proof of means of subsistence: employment contract, bank statements, or tax authority document .
Accommodation
- Proof of accommodation in Hungary – Hungarian address in the application form (no separate document needed) .
Health insurance
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance or proof of sufficient funds to cover medical costs .
Exit conditions
- Evidence of exit conditions: valid passport/travel document and ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one .
This list adjusts automatically based on your nationality and category.
How to apply
- 1
Gather all required documents: application form, photo, passport, residence proof, employment contract, qualification cert, financial proof, accommodation, health insurance, and exit conditions [73–86].
- 2
Submit the application in person at a Hungarian embassy/consulate or through the authorized VFS centre. Pay the applicable fee (38,000 HUF national or 26,000 HUF electronic) .
- 3
Attend an interview if required. The consular office may request additional documents .
- 4
Wait for processing – up to 90 days . You will be notified of the decision.
- 5
Upon approval, collect your EU Blue Card. The card is valid for 1–4 years (or contract +3 months) and can be renewed .
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my family with the EU Blue Card?
Yes, family members (spouse, children) can apply for a residence permit for family reunification once you hold the EU Blue Card. They must meet standard family reunification requirements [C1].
Is there a labour market test in Hungary?
Yes, Hungary applies a labour market test, meaning your employer must prove that no suitable Hungarian, EU/EEA, or legally resident third‑country worker is available for the position .
What happens if my employment contract ends early?
If your contract ends before the validity of the EU Blue Card, you have 90 days to find a new qualifying job or you may need to leave the country. The card itself is tied to the job.
Can I apply for permanent residence after holding an EU Blue Card?
Yes, after holding the EU Blue Card and residing legally in Hungary for a certain period (usually 5 years, but time on Blue Card may count), you can apply for long‑term residence. Specific conditions apply.
Related visas
Official source: https://enterhungary.gov.hu/eh/tajekoztato/en/tarteng1
Last verified: Aug 15, 2026
This page reflects Hungary's officially published requirements as of the dates above. It is not legal advice, and final approval is solely at the discretion of Hungary's immigration authorities. For a case-specific compliance check against your own documents, try VisaBook free.