First step in immigration reform in Hungary – who is affected?

Only guest worker residency holders are affected

The new government decree of June 5, 2026, introduced changes only to one specific permit type: guest worker residency. Other residence permits and work permits are not affected now.

The term “guest worker” is a bit confusing, unfortunately. While colloquially, it refers to foreign people working in Hungary, in the context of immigration law, guest worker residency is a specific work permit type relevant only to a small fraction of foreign workers who typically work on big projects for strategic partners of the Hungarian government or labor rental agencies licensed specifically for the employment of guest workers.

No new applications for guest worker residency

The most important change introduced now is that for this one specific work permit type called guest worker residency, new applications cannot be submitted starting from June 6, 2026. However, applications already in progress (submitted and paid by June 5) will be processed with the same conditions as before.

In order to maintain the rights of workers already in Hungary:

• Existing permits will stay valid until their expiry date.
• Expiring permits will be eligible for renewal.

This change is in line with the campaign program of TISZA Party, which intended to discontinue this type of residence permit in order to remove any risks posed by the immigration of large groups with little control, and to reduce unfair advantages of certain market players.

Review of the immigration law coming up

During today’s press release, the spokesperson of the government confirmed that an immigration reform is on its way, and the immigration law will need to be reviewed in the near future to create regulations that are better for every stakeholder. However, no timeline has been specified for this.

Helpers is keeping a close eye on developments in immigration to Hungary. If you want to stay up to date, follow us on Facebook, or sign up for our monthly newsletter.