Moving to Hungary as an EEA Citizen
Moving to Hungary as an EEA Citizen? Here’s What You Need to Know!
Hungary offers excellent opportunities for citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA), whether for employment, studies, or long-term residence. While EU citizens can travel and stay in the country freely, an official registration is required if they stay for more than 90 days. But why is this important, what are the benefits, and how does the process work? In this article, we have gathered all the essential information!
Who is eligible for Registration in Hungary?
EEA citizens – including those from the European Union, as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein – are entitled to reside in Hungary. However, if their stay exceeds 90 days within a 180 day period, they must apply for a registration certificate. The application must be submitted within 93 days of arrival.
Benefits of Registration
Registering in Hungary provides several advantages for EEA citizens:
- Legal Residency: The registration certificate officially verifies the legitimacy of your stay in Hungary and also facilitates clarification of your tax residency status.
- Access to Services: Registered individuals have easier access to various public services, including healthcare and education.
- Employment: Registration simplifies the process of getting a job and conducting other economic activities in Hungary.
- Attractive Tax Environment: Hungary has the lowest corporate tax rate in the European Union (only 9%) and a highly competitive personal income tax rate. Individuals in Hungary pay only 15% in personal income tax, whereas in some Western EU countries, this rate can be as high as 55%.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to other EU member states, the cost of living in Hungary (including housing, food, and transportation) is lower, allowing newcomers to enjoy a higher standard of living for the same expenditure.
Conditions for Registration
To apply for a registration certificate, the following conditions must be met:
- Valid travel document or ID card: A copy of a valid passport or national ID card must be attached to the application.
- Proof of purpose of stay: The applicant must provide documentation justifying their stay in Hungary, which could include:
- Employment contract
- Economic activity
- Proof of studies
- Family reunification
- Other valid reasons and motivation for residing in Hungary
- Sufficient financial resources: Proof is required that the applicant has enough financial means to support their stay in Hungary.
- Health insurance: The applicant must demonstrate that they have valid health insurance or sufficient financial resources to cover medical expenses.
- Proof of residence: This can be confirmed through various means, such as a property ownership document, rental agreement, accommodation consent declaration, or other credible proof.
Application Process
The registration certificate application can be submitted:
- In person at the regional immigration office based on the applicant’s Hungarian residence.
- Online via the Enter Hungary platform. To submit an online application, prior registration is required in the system, but if the applicant is represented by an authorized agent, this registration is not necessary. Authorized agent can be a lawyer as well.
It is important to note that the online application must include a photo of the applicant.
During the registration process, the applicant must submit a valid passport or ID card along with supporting documents proving the conditions for their stay. Additionally, the applicant must declare whether they have any infectious diseases and whether they are receiving treatment for them.
Once approved, the registration certificate is sent to the applicant by post. If the first Hungarian address is registered simultaneously with the application, an address card will also be issued automatically, and the declared address will be officially recorded in the central register.
Frequently asked questions about EEA citizen Registration in Hungary
Many EEA citizens have questions about the registration process. Below are the answers to the most common ones:
1. What documents are required for registration?
The basic documents needed for registration include:
- A valid passport or national ID card
- Proof of purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, study certificate, etc.)
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of sufficient financial resources for living in Hungary
The exact list of documents may vary depending on the purpose of the stay.
2. How long does it take to obtain the registration certificate?
Authorities usually process applications within a few weeks, but the process may be faster if submitted online. Submitting online not only avoids long queues but can also shorten the process.
3. What should I do if my motivation for staying or residence address changes?
If the registration certificate holder changes jobs, switches to another educational institution, or moves to a different address, they must notify the relevant authorities. Changes must be reported to the Immigration Office.
4. How long is the registration certificate valid?
The registration certificate is valid indefinitely. However, the individual must continue to meet the legal conditions for residence. If the individual loses their eligibility (e.g., employment ends and no other grounds for staying exist), they must re-establish their right to stay.
5. What happens if someone fails to register?
EEA citizens are not automatically subject to deportation; however, failure to register may result in official warnings or a requirement to provide retrospective proof of residence. Not having proper registration may also cause problems when seeking employment or accessing public services.
6. What options do EEA citizens have for long-term residence?
An EEA citizen who has continuously lived in Hungary for at least five years can apply for a permanent residence card. This card grants the holder equal treatment with Hungarian citizens regarding benefits and services, and can only be revoked in cases of serious criminal offenses.
Conclusion
The registration process is simple, fast, and offers numerous advantages, making it highly recommended to complete as soon as possible. Additionally, for those planning an extended stay, securing a permanent residence card after five years allows for long-term stability and equal treatment with Hungarian citizens in terms of rights and benefits.