Travel to Hungary – Visa or Residence Permit?
October 15, 2024
info@avianlegal.hu +3670-389-3614
Dr. Boldizsár Dominik LL.M.
Hungary offers several pathways for third-country nationals to reside legally within its borders. One such opportunity is applying for National Residence Card, which grants long-term residency (up to 10 years) to individuals who meet the strict criterias layed down in the relevant legislation. This card is particularly for those with family ties to Hungarian citizens or individuals who have legally resided in Hungary for a significant period. In our article, we have collected the main informations related to the application.
Eligibility Criterias for the National Residence Card
The first and most important question is that what are the main eligibility criterias when applying for a National Residence Card.
The national residence card may be granted to a third-country national who holds either a residence permit, a interim settlement permit, or a interim residence card, and who:
a) has lawfully and continuously resided in Hungary for at least three years preceding the submission of the application,
b) has lived in a family with a Hungarian citizen, or with a third-country national holding a long-term residence permit or recognized as a refugee, as a dependent ascendant for at least one year immediately preceding the submission of the application,
c) is the spouse of a Hungarian citizen or of a third-country national holding a long-term residence permit or recognized as a refugee, provided that the marriage was concluded at least two years prior to the submission of the application,
d) was a Hungarian citizen but has lost citizenship, or whose ascendant is or was a Hungarian citizen, or
e) is the minor child of a third-country national holding a long-term residence permit or recognized as a refugee.
Additional Requirements
Beyond fulfilling the primary eligibility conditions, applicants must also meet several additional criteria. The following aspects are essential:
- Housing: Applicants must have guaranteed housing in Hungary.
- Subsistence: Applicants must show proof of financial means for subsistence.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance covering all healthcare services or the ability to cover these costs is mandatory.
Who Cannot Apply
Certain groups of third-country nationals are explicitly excluded from applying for the national residence card. These include holders of specific types of temporary residence permits, such as those for seasonal employment, guest work, or study-related purposes (without the need for completeness). The intent here would be to limit long-term residency rights to individuals with stronger and more permanent ties to Hungary, rather than those with temporary or short-term residency situations.
Processing Time and Validity
The immigration authority typically processes applications within 70 days. Once approved, the National Residence Card is issued for a maximum of 10 years. It can be extended for an additional 10 years upon request, provided the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
Revocation of the Card
The National Residence Card can be withdrawn under specific circumstances, such as:
- Providing false information or untrue data during the application process.
- Expulsion or an entry ban issued against the cardholder.
- If the third-country national’s spouse (who provided the basis for their residency) leaves Hungary or ceases legal residence.
- Security concerns, such as the cardholder becoming a threat to public or national security.
- In cases where the card was issued due to family relationships, changes in family status can also lead to revocation.
