National Card: Residence and Business Key in Hungary
The National Card is a type of residence permit that provides certain third-country nationals the opportunity to stay and work in Hungary. This card can be issued to individuals from specific countries, as determined by government regulations, who meet certain conditions and legal relationships. The National Card serves as the legal basis for the employment relationship and the purpose of stay for third-country nationals.
Conditions for Issuance of the National Card
A third-country national can obtain the National Card if they:
- Have an employment relationship and perform work in Hungary (including employment through temporary work agencies).
- Perform actual work for the purpose of employment as an owner or executive officer of a business, cooperative, or other income-generating legal entity.
The National Card grants the right to stay in Hungary for up to 90 days within 180 days, for a maximum duration of 2 years, which can be extended for 3 years as needed.
Extension of the National Card
If a third-country national with a National Card wishes to establish an employment relationship with a different employer, they must submit a new application for card extension. The application for extension must be submitted before the new employment relationship begins.
If the guest worker’s employment is terminated, the permit automatically becomes invalid on the day the employment ends. In this case, the employee must declare whether they are voluntarily leaving the EU member states or other Schengen countries.
Required Documents for the National Card Application:
- Valid travel document.
- Proof of accommodation and livelihood.
- Proof of financial means to cover travel costs for onward or return journeys.
- Proof of health insurance.
- Documents verifying the purpose of stay, such as a preliminary agreement for establishing an employment relationship or proof of it.
Eligible Countries for National Card Issuance
Third-country nationals from the following countries are eligible to apply for the National Card:
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- North Macedonia
- Belarus
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Russia
- Serbia
- Ukraine
It is important to note that citizens who meet the conditions for the issuance of the National Card cannot receive the White Card.
The National Card also provides the opportunity for family reunification.
Administration and Decision-Making
The processing time for applications is 21 days, while the decision is made by the competent authority within 70 days. The issued National Card is valid for a maximum of 2 years, which can be extended for up to 3 years.
Applications for residence permit extensions can only be made in Hungary, via the Enter Hungary platform.
Summary
The National Card is an important legal tool that allows specific third-country nationals to work and stay in Hungary. The procedures for issuing and extending the card are strictly regulated, and for those who meet the conditions, it provides an opportunity for legal employment in Hungary.