Validity of expiring documents in Hungary during the state of emergency

Expiring documents during the state of emergency

Previously, in order not to overwhelm administration during the pandemic, Hungary extended the validity of expiring documents until after the end of the state of emergency. Now that the pandemic seems to stay for some time more, the extended validity of expired documents comes to an end on 30 June 2022.

Documents expired since 4 November 2020

As a pandemic related measure, Hungary automatically extended the validity of all official ID documents issued in Hungary, including ID cards, residence permits, driving licenses and vehicle registrations. Every Hungarian ID document expired since the last week before the introduction of the latest state of emergency (since 4 November 2020) was to be extended 1 or 2 months after the end of the state of emergency.

Such documents have been accepted as valid within Hungary ever since, but not internationally. If you wanted to travel abroad, you were still required to extend or renew your documents in order to be accepted abroad.

Expired documents valid until 30 June 2022

Now, after the state of emergency has been extended several times, while there are signs that the pandemic might go on for some time more, it was decided that the validity of expiring documents should come to an end.

All residency documents (including temporary and permanent residence permits, work permits, and permits based on student status, family unification, or any other reason) that expired since 4 November 2020, or will expire by 28 February 2022, will be accepted as valid in Hungary until 30 June 2022.

Residency documents expiring from 1 March 2022

Residency documents expiring from 1 March 2022 will not be accepted as valid after their expiry. Holders of such documents cannot take advantage of the same grace period those with papers expired earlier enjoy, and they should renew their residency as soon as possible.

Residency renewal might take 60-70 days. However, if your residency expires in March, you are not late to start the procedure. When you apply, you are given a temporary permit that lets you stay in Hungary without complications. Just make sure you submit your application before the expiry of your existing documents.

Can we help you renewing your expired or expiring documents?

Whether your residency document has already expired or it is just expiring this year, you will need to renew it soon if you want to continue to stay in Hungary. Expired documents will not be accepted as valid in Hungary starting from 1 July 2022.

Helpers Hungary has provided assistance to foreigners doing business and living in Hungary for more than 15 years. Whether you own a business, work at a Hungarian company, study in Hungary, joined your spouse, or received residency based on any other reason, we would be happy to help you renew your residency. Just fill in the form below, and let us know how we can help you!