A Guide to Hungary’s Permanent Residence (PR) System for International Students

Permanent Residence (PR) in Hungary allows non-EU nationals to live and work in the country indefinitely. Unlike temporary residence permits for students, a PR status provides long-term security, granting many rights similar to Hungarian citizens, such as the ability to stay without visa renewals, work freely, and access social services.

Eligibility for Permanent Residence

As an international student, you must meet certain criteria to apply for PR. The requirements differ based on whether you are an EU or non-EU student:

Non-EU Students: You need to have lived in Hungary for at least 3 years under a legal residence permit, such as a student visa. During this period, you should not have been outside Hungary for more than six consecutive months or 10 months in total. You will also need to prove stable income and may need basic Hungarian language proficiency.

EU Students: EU nationals can apply for PR after 5 years of legal residence in Hungary.

Types of Permanent Residence Permits

Hungary offers two types of permanent residence permits:

EU Long-Term Residence Permit: Available to non-EU citizens, this permit grants similar rights to Hungarian citizens, including the ability to stay and work in other EU countries.

Hungarian Permanent Residence Permit: This permit allows you to stay only in Hungary and enjoy long-term residency benefits within the country.                                                                      

Application Process

To apply for PR, you need to gather the following documents:

• Passport or national ID
• Proof of continuous legal residence in Hungary (e.g., your student visa)
• Proof of stable income (job contract, bank statements)
• Health insurance coverage
• Hungarian language certificate (if required)

Submit your application to the Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office. The processing time usually takes 2 to 6 months. If approved, you will receive a permanent residence card valid for 5 years, which can be renewed.

The Permanent Residence system in Hungary provides international students with the opportunity to stay long-term, work, and integrate into Hungarian society. By understanding the eligibility, application process, and benefits of PR, you can plan your future in Hungary with confidence. Be sure to check the most current requirements with the Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office as you begin your journey toward permanent residency.