Residency options for Ukrainians and other nationals coming from Ukraine to Hungary

Last updated on 13 March 2022.

Temporary protection

Everyone who has fled Ukraine since 24 February 2022 has a right to temporary protection in the entire EU, as it was agreed in the meeting of the European Council last Thursday (4 March 2022). Those applying for temporary protection in Hungary will have the right to receive shelter, apply for work, receive healthcare services, and have their children attend school in Hungary (see a detailed list of rights here).

UPDATE: As of 7 March 2022, there has been a change to who can apply for temporary protection in Hungary. Third-country residents of Ukraine are no longer eligible. The status of Hungarian citizens is unclear. Click here to learn more.

Since the European Union invoked the rule for temporary protection, this status is supposed to be available for at least a year. However, if you are planning to stay in Hungary, or you just want more autonomy and access to more services (e.g. a wider range of healthcare services) while you are here, you might consider applying for a regular residence permit. Hungary offers various options for residency based on various grounds – see which might be most relevant to you.

White card

If you have been working remotely for a Ukrainian or any other, non-Hungarian company, you can continue your work from Hungary. Just apply for the white card, which is what residency for digital nomads is called. You will get residency for one year, which can be renewed once. Its drawback compared to other residency options is that you will need your own private health insurance, and that based on the white card your family members cannot apply for residency with family unification. Read more here.

Work permit

As a third country citizen in Hungary, you need a work permit if you want to enter employment. You can get one even under temporary protection, but if you are planning to stay longer, you might want to apply for a regular work permit. As an employee, you will be fully insured in Hungary, which makes you eligible to receive the full range of healthcare services. Your family members can also apply for Hungarian residency based on family unification. Read more here.

Business immigration

You might also decide to start a business in Hungary, whether you had your own business in Ukraine or you are starting something entirely new here. Registering a company in Hungary takes just 4-5 business days, after which you must open a corporate bank account, and you are good to go. You can also get an EU VAT number for your company immediately and without extra requirement, so you can start trading immediately not only in Hungary but also internationally. You as a managing director also become eligible for social security (meaning a full range of healthcare services). Residence permit by family unification is also available for your family members. Read more here.

Student permit

If you have been studying in higher education in Ukraine, you may decide to continue your studies at a Hungarian institution. Many universities offer programs for international students, usually in English. If your application is accepted, you can apply for a student permit with your admission papers. Read more here.

Immigration Office

Starting from 11 March 2022, the Immigration Office at Harmat utca, Budapest is open every day, including weekends and holidays, for people coming from Ukraine, whether they are asking for temporary protection (available to Ukrainian citizens) or for temporary residency (available to third-country nationals).

Address: 1108 Budapest, Harmat utca 131.
Open: every day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Expert assistance with various residency options

Helpers Hungary has more than 15 years of experience in providing administrative support to foreigners in Hungary. Our services cover everything from residence permit application through company setup to accountancy.

Check out our services here

to learn more about the various residency options in Hungary, or fill in the form below to get in touch today.

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