What are residence permits and permanent residence in Hungary: advantages and limitations

The advantages and limitations associated with obtaining residence permits - temporary residence (ВНЖ) and permanent residence (ПМЖ) - have certain characteristics. A residence permit is a temporary status, while permanent residence provides rights comparable to citizenship. Holders of permanent residence enjoy privileges such as free education at local universities, participation in elections, and affordable health insurance.

Features of permanent residency

By acquiring the permanent residence status, you receive a plastic card confirming your permanent residence and an internal passport, which allows you to move freely around the EU countries without a passport, except for the UK. The Hungarian residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed without having to submit all the documents again. However, a residence permit is also issued for five years, but requires proof of the legality of your stay in the country.

Restrictions on permanent residency

It should not be forgotten that the status of permanent residency has its limitations. For example, a permanent resident cannot move to another EU country, such as Austria, without special permission. However, after two years of holding Hungarian permanent residency, one can obtain "EU permanent residency" with similar rights.

Employment in another EU country

When seeking employment in another EU country, the holder of Hungarian permanent residency is required to obtain an additional permit, unlike Hungarian citizens or holders of "EU permanent residency".

Requirements for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary

• Residence in Hungary for at least three years
• Presence in the country for at least 270 days a year
• Ownership of one's own or rented housing
• Residence at the relevant address in case of lease
• Absence of a criminal record

To apply for permanent residency, you need to submit documents to the Hungarian immigration office and pay a state fee of 10,000 forints (approximately €33) for each person. Applications are processed within three months, and additional documents may be requested if necessary.

Obtaining Permanent Residency in Hungary: Challenges and Required Documents

Obtaining permanent residency in Hungary is a rather complicated and resource-intensive process that requires applicants to provide a large number of documents and undergo numerous checks. An interview with the authorities can be a real test, as any uncomfortable questions may be asked, including those about the source of funds. Due to the migration crisis and the political situation, the scrutiny of applicants from Russia and post-Soviet countries has intensified, so one should be prepared for intrusive questions and inspections in their own home.

Necessary documents for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary:

• Passport, old passports (if they have been changed in the last three years)
• Application for a residence permit
• Two photos
• Pension certificate
• Certificate of absence of criminal record

The documents for financial viability include:

• Insurance for a year (from any insurance company)
• Notarized statement of obligation to renew the insurance in Hungary
• Notarized statement of obligation to support children and spouse in Hungary

It is also necessary to provide:

• Certificates of marriage, divorce, and birth of children
• Notarized statement from the spouse regarding the permission for the children to stay in Hungary.

Important points when obtaining a residence permit in Hungary:

• To budget around €500 per person per month when confirming financial capability.
• Provide an extract from the real estate register

Overall, the process of obtaining permanent residency in Hungary is quite complex and labor-intensive, requiring a large number of documents and going through numerous checks. However, with all the necessary documents in hand and a willingness to undergo the checks, it is possible to successfully obtain permanent residency in this country.

Advantages and limitations

Reference:A residence permit is a temporary residence permit, while a permanent residence permit is a permanent residence permit. The key difference between a residence permit and a permanent residence permit is that the holder of the latter is entitled to the same rights as citizens of the country. He can study free of charge at local universities, vote in the parliament at the place of residence, receive health insurance on favorable terms. The cost of medical insurance is almost 10 times less than that of a residence permit holder!

When obtaining permanent residency, a plastic card is issued that confirms permanent registration at the place of residence, as well as an internal passport that allows travel within the European Union (except for the UK) without presenting a foreign passport. Permanent residency in Hungary is granted for five years with the possibility of extension. In this case, there is no need to resubmit all the documents justifying this status.