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New Restriction on Guest Worker Residence Permit Applications

According to a recent Government Decree, as of 6 June 2026, it is no longer possible to apply for a new ‘guest worker residence permit’. Previously, such permits could be requested by foreign nationals whose employer was registered either as a preferential employer or as a certified temporary work agency.

Accordingly, the changes affect these categories of employers and foreign employees. The transitional provisions ensure that employees currently working in Hungary under a guest worker residence permit may still apply for an extension of their permit. Applications submitted by 5 June 2026 will continue to be assessed under the rules that were in force at the time of submission. With regard to residence permits for employment purposes, only a clarification has been introduced. This type of permit remains available to nationals of the countries previously specified by law (i.e. Georgia, Armenia, and the Republic of the Philippines).

Further legislative changes are expected in the future in light of a government resolution, which states that a comprehensive and expedited review of all legislation governing the employment of third-country nationals in Hungary is necessary. Accordingly, the Government has ordered a review of the existing regulatory framework and the preparation of related legislative measures.