On January 1, 2024, Hungary implemented a new immigration law that significantly alters the landscape for guest workers. One of the notable aspects of this law is the introduction of guest worker residence permits, which will take effect on July 1, 2024. Under these new regulations, permits will be strictly limited to individuals employed by designated employers from specific countries and in designated professions.
Guest worker residence permits are valid for a maximum of three years, after which individuals must submit a new application to continue residing in Hungary. Importantly, these permits do not grant guest workers the right to apply for permanent residency or to reunite with family members in Hungary.
The law specifies that individuals from 15 countries are eligible for these guest worker permits. The eligible countries include:
- Belarus
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- North Macedonia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Kazakhstan
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Vietnam
- Russia
- Brazil
- Georgia
- Kyrgyzstan
- Venezuela
- Colombia
Additionally, on November 14, 2023, the Hungarian government introduced legislation aimed at revising the legal framework for the residency of third-country nationals. This legislation emphasizes that unlimited residency is not an inherent right for these individuals, and that extensions of residence permits will not be granted automatically.
These changes reflect Hungary’s ongoing efforts to manage immigration and ensure that the residency process remains regulated and aligned with national interests.