What are the challenges of obtaining a residence permit in Hungary for third-country nationals?

Obtaining and extending a residence permit for citizens of non-European Union countries in Hungary is a rather complex process that requires attention to various nuances. The main aspect that Hungarian authorities value when analyzing residence permit applications is the acquisition of residential real estate. At first glance, it may seem that this factor is sufficient; however, in practice, it turns out that many applications from citizens who have purchased property are rejected when applying for a long-term D visa. Studies show that over 98% of such applicants face failure, highlighting serious issues in the existing system.

Problems with extending residence permit

Those who want to extend an already issued residence permit are also facing particular difficulties. Often, the reason for refusal is insufficient time spent in the country—less than 180 days a year. Hungarian authorities believe that such categories only require a standard visa. Dmitry Efuni, the director general of the ICON agency, recounts the case of an acquaintance who was denied a D visa at the end of November 2016, despite having purchased property in Budapest. Consular officials in Moscow emphasized that in 98% of such cases, obtaining a positive decision would be extremely difficult. They also noted the need to justify the purpose of obtaining a residence permit, which experts believe is a result of changes in domestic policy, although the exact motivations are not clear.

Medical care in Hungary

As for medical care in Hungary, it is provided through a health insurance system that is free for all citizens. Healthcare funding comes from a special fund, to which employers make mandatory contributions for their employees. Each employee also pays a small portion of their income monthly, which allows them to access medical services without additional costs.

Insurance for unemployed individuals

Individuals not working in the country can only access medical services if they have a national health insurance policy. It is important to emphasize that for citizens with permanent residency, the cost of obtaining health insurance is about €25 per month, which is tens of times cheaper than for those with temporary visas. Additionally, holders of national insurance can obtain what is known as European insurance, which is valid for three years and provides access to emergency medical assistance in any EU country free of charge.

Changes in legislation

Since 2017, the system has changed, and to obtain insurance, the applicant is required to provide a certificate from their country stating that they are not provided with medical insurance. For example, in Russia, current laws do not allow for the cancellation of mandatory medical insurance, as confirmed by the Federal Fund for Mandatory Medical Insurance in their official letter. This creates associated difficulties, resulting in many finding themselves in a vicious circle where the discrepancies in the requirements and laws of different countries add barriers for those wishing to legalize and receive quality medical care.

Conclusion

Ultimately, this process becomes extremely confusing and risky for people who do not have sufficient information about the complexities of local legislation.

Documents for medical services in Russia

Dmitry Efuni emphasizes that in the current situation, the most reasonable solution may be to obtain a document in Russia that certifies that you have been removed from the registration account – that is, you have received a certificate of deregistration. This document will help you explain why you cannot access medical services in Russia. However, it is important to consider that the process of obtaining such a document may encounter difficulties, as you might simply be denied.

Medical insurance and benefits in Hungary

It should be emphasized that having health insurance in Hungary is mandatory for receiving child benefits, especially if you have permanent resident status. Hungarian authorities significantly complicate the process for foreigners to obtain health insurance, which in turn negatively affects access to social benefits for children.

As for the healthcare system in Hungary, it is renowned for its high quality of service, significantly surpassing the level of medical services in Russia and other CIS countries.

Driving a car in Hungary

Let's move on to questions related to driving a car. Foreigners, both temporary and permanent residents, have the opportunity to exchange their driver's licenses for Hungarian ones without taking additional exams. To do this, it is necessary to contact a specialized authority in Budapest and provide your old license as well as a medical certificate.

Obtaining a residence permit in Hungary for students

To obtain a residence permit in Hungary based on studying at a university, you need to gather certain documents. First of all, you must provide a certificate of enrollment from the educational institution.

Additionally, it is necessary to confirm the place of residence in the country, which can be done using documents such as:

• rental contract;
• a certificate of residence from the dormitory with an attached certificate of ownership.

Financial documents

It is necessary to provide evidence of financial means for living in Hungary. This can include:

• bank statement
• a letter from the parents guaranteeing that they will cover all living expenses;
• certificate of scholarship receipt.

It is also important to attach a certificate or document confirming the level of proficiency in a foreign language, which must be submitted both in the original and in a copy.

Documents for a second higher education

For those planning to pursue a second higher education, it will be necessary to provide the diploma of the previous higher education, both in the original and in a copy. In addition, a certificate from the educational institution regarding the payment of tuition fees or exemption from them will be required.

It should be noted that to enroll in Hungarian universities, it is necessary to pass special entrance exams.

Education and adaptation of children

As Dmitry Efuni notes:“My children have never had any issues with the educational process in local schools. There is a law that requires educational institutions to accept children living in the designated area.”He also expresses satisfaction with the level of education and the teachers' approach to their students.

Employment in Hungary

When it comes to job searching, it can be quite a challenging process in Hungary. This is not only because employers often prefer local residents. A key factor is language proficiency, as a good command of Hungarian is required to work in any Hungarian business.

Even if you manage to get your desired job, you shouldn't expect high salaries. On average, incomes in this country are only about€500-600Therefore, many residents of Hungary who live near the Austrian border prefer to look for job opportunities outside the country, especially in the border regions.

Job opportunities for foreign citizens

It is important to note that only those who have the following can work as an employee in Hungary:

• work permit;
• permanent or temporary residence permit;
• Hungarian citizenship.

Individuals with temporary residence permits obtained through real estate purchases should expect to rely on the income they earn in their home country.

International companies and language difficulties

Dmitry Efuni also emphasizes:“International companies operate in Hungary, mainly located in Budapest. However, it is difficult to find a job in such companies without knowledge of the Hungarian language.”Typically, such positions are filled by local residents, and the Hungarian language is difficult to master; it is considered one of the hardest languages to learn in the world.

Pension provision

It is also necessary to understand the differences between temporary and permanent residence permits in Hungary. As for pension benefits, only those who have a permanent residence permit or are citizens of Hungary are entitled to receive a pension in this country.

The size of the pension depends on the total work experience you accumulate throughout your career.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as the author of this article, I aimed to reveal the details and complexities that foreigners face when obtaining and renewing residence permits in Hungary. The situation where 98% of applicants for residence permits who have invested in real estate face rejections is deeply concerning.

The refusal to issue a long-term visa D due to "insufficient residence" raises questions about the real motives and criteria used by the Hungarian authorities. I also discussed other important aspects of life in Hungary, such as healthcare and education, emphasizing that despite the high quality of medicine, immigrants may face difficulties in obtaining health insurance.

Prospects for life in Hungary

Nevertheless, the ability to own a car and receive an education without significant obstacles opens up certain prospects for life in the country. I am convinced that these aspects should be taken into account by those considering moving to Hungary.

Key points

• 98% of applicants for residence permits face rejections.
• Rejections are often related to "insufficient residency."
• It's important to know about medical care and insurance.
• Education is available for holders of residence permits and permanent residence permits.

It is important to understand that every decision made by the Hungarian authorities has its roots and consequences, and we should closely monitor changes in legislation. It might be advisable to consider lobbying for more favorable conditions for immigrants and simplifying the residency application process.

I hope that my article will help readers better navigate the issues related to obtaining and renewing a residence permit in Hungary, and serve as a useful guide in this challenging process.