Residence Permit for Highly Qualified Professionals – How to Get an EU Blue Card in Hungary 2025

The EU Blue Card is a European Union program designed to attract highly qualified specialists from non-EU countries. As a participant in the program, Hungary offers applicants the opportunity to live and work legally in the country while enjoying a number of significant benefits. This option is ideal for those who hold a university degree and have a valid job offer in Hungary. In this article, you’ll learn about the eligibility requirements, the application process, the necessary documents, processing times, and the opportunities the Blue Card provides.

Obtaining a Blue Card is possible only if certain conditions are met. It’s important to note that Hungary operates both the European and national systems for attracting foreign professionals. The EU Blue Card is an EU-wide initiative, while the Hungarian Card is a national alternative. However, the Blue Card offers broader opportunities within the EU.

To qualify for a Blue Card, you must:

• Be a citizen of a non-EU country;
• Hold a higher education degree or have proven professional experience in your field;
• Have an employment contract with a Hungarian company for at least 6 months;
• Receive a salary that is at least 1.5 times higher than the national average.

This is not just a “work visa” — it’s a residence and work permit combined. It’s designed for engineers, IT professionals, doctors, analysts, managers, and other skilled workers.

Applicants must submit a standard but carefully prepared set of documents. All papers must be translated into Hungarian and certified if required.

The list includes:

• A valid passport covering the intended period of stay;
• University diploma or documents proving qualification and experience;
• Employment contract with a Hungarian company (minimum 6 months);
• Proof of meeting the minimum salary threshold;
• Proof of accommodation in Hungary (rental agreement, invitation letter, etc.);
• Health insurance or access to medical services;
• Completed application form, biometric photo, and criminal record certificate if required.

The exact list of documents may vary depending on the job type and applicant’s status, so a prior consultation is strongly recommended.

The Blue Card application follows a “single permit procedure”, meaning you apply for both residence and work authorization at once. This simplifies the process but requires accuracy and preparation.

• Processing time: up to 70 days (often faster if documents are complete).
• Application fee: approximately €110–150, plus possible extra costs for notarization, translations, and medical certificates.

The card is issued for up to 4 years, but not longer than the employment contract’s duration. It can be renewed if needed. Changing employers is possible after the first year of holding the card.

The Blue Card is not only a work and residence permit — it’s a pathway to long-term stay in the EU. Key benefits include:

• Legal residence and employment rights with renewal options;
• Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area;
• Family reunification with a fast-track process for spouses and children;
• Eligibility for permanent residence (PR) after 5 years, subject to conditions;
• Option to move to another EU country after 18 months of residence in Hungary and transfer the Blue Card there;
• Competitive living costs and taxation compared to Western European countries.

For IT experts, engineers, and other globally in-demand professionals, this is a convenient way to establish themselves in Europe with prospects for growth and mobility.

The EU Blue Card in Hungary is one of the most effective ways for skilled professionals to legally migrate to Europe. The program opens not only professional but also personal opportunities — from career advancement to family reunification and obtaining permanent residency. The key is to meet the requirements and prepare your documents correctly.

If you plan to work in Hungary or another EU country, contact the Visa Dan experts. We will evaluate your eligibility, help you collect the necessary documents, and guide you through every stage — from receiving a job offer to submitting your application.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!