Residence permit for the purpose of seeking a job or starting a business
Hungary
Last updated: December 25, 2025
9 months total
$66
4-7 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This is a visa for recent graduates and researchers from Hungarian universities who want to stay and find a job or start a business. You've just finished studying or researching in Hungary, and you need time to look for work. This visa gives you 9 months to search and apply for jobs. Only people who studied or researched at a Hungarian institution can get this visa. It's not for people moving to Hungary for work from other countries. You must be a non-EU citizen. This visa lets you search for jobs legally. Once you find a job, you can switch to a work visa and keep living in Hungary.
Key Benefits
- Search and apply for jobs legally in Hungary
- Start a business and register it in Hungary
- Switch to a work visa when you get a job offer
- Travel freely within the Schengen area (Europe)
- Stay in Hungary while looking for employment
- Work on self-employment opportunities
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have completed a degree or research project at a Hungarian university
- Must still be holding your Hungarian student or research visa when you apply
- Must apply BEFORE your current visa expires (not after)
- Must be a non-EU citizen (not from Europe's EU countries)
- Must be at least 18 years old
- No criminal record
- Must have enough money to live in Hungary
- Must have valid health insurance or money to pay for healthcare
- Job or business you plan to pursue must match your education level
Financial Requirement
You must show you have enough money to live in Hungary for 9 months. This means paying for food, rent, and basic costs. No official minimum amount exists, but you need to prove you can support yourself. Show your bank statements as proof.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for at least 12 more months
- University degree or completion certificateProof of graduation from Hungarian institution
- Bank statementsShowing you have money to live in Hungary
- Proof of residenceLease agreement or letter confirming where you live in Hungary
- Health insuranceValid health insurance or proof you can pay for healthcare
- Job search confirmationFrom the Labor Office OR business startup document if starting a business
- Recent photographFacial photograph for visa card
- Criminal background checkNo serious crimes
- Proof of exit capabilityPlane ticket, booking confirmation, or money for travel
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.