Moving to Hungary may be one of the best decisions you’ve made in your life – it’s simple as that. The country, especially the capital Budapest, is welcoming to newcomers and has so much to offer. It is especially suitable for young professionals who are seeking fantastic job opportunities and entertainment options. As with every relocation, you will need a good organization; therefore, we have prepared a guide that will make your move as easy as possible.
Located in Central Europe, and with a population of around 10 million people, Hungary presents a mid-sized member of the EU. The country’s official language is Hungarian, while forint is the official currency. It’s mostly famous for Lake Balaton, stunning architecture, and delicious food.
Living in Hungary Requires Obtaining a Residence and Work Permits
To travel to Hungary, you first have to get a Visa. Contact a Consulate regarding documents needed to obtain it. Keep in mind that the Visa is valid for one month from the day you arrive at the Schengen Area. During these 30 days, you must go to the Hungarian Immigration Office and get the final Residence Permit, while arranging the Address registration. Permit, in most cases, is valid for one year, or until the Work permit is valid. Along with the Address Card, it gives you the right to apply for the Social Security Card and Tax Card.
One of the Most Important Things Is to Get a Work Permit
Getting work and residence permits is part of one procedure. To get a work permit, you must fill the application form and submit it to Immigration authorities at the Hungarian Embassy. The application will be sent to the Labor Center for authorization. When the Labor Center validates the application, it is back to the Immigration office to decide if both permits will be issued.
How to Get a Permanent Residence Card
If you are thinking about living here long term, you should know that there are two permanent permits, expats can apply for. First is a National Permanent Residence Permit (NPRP) for which you can apply for if you have lived and worked at least three years in Hungary, and haven’t been absent more than 90 days per year.
Another Type of Residence Permit for Living in Hungary – EC Permanent Settlement Permit
Non-EU citizens who have lived and worked in Hungary for five years have the right to apply for the EC Permanent Residence Permit (ECPR). The permit is valid for five years and can be renewed for an additional period.
Before Moving to Hungary, Think About Healthcare and Expat Health Insurance Options
Hungary has a tax-funded healthcare system that provides free services to those covered with national health insurance. To use these services, you need to have a national insurance card – TAJ kártya, and you will only get it if you get a job in a Hungarian company. Therefore, most expatriates decide to use private services, such as the Swiss Clinic, or Mediclinic. Using these services is pricey, but they are professional and cover all sorts of healthcare needs.
Finding a Job Will Not Be a Problem
In the past couple of decades, Hungary is proud of its economy. Foreign investments have a significant impact on the nation’s economic growth; therefore, the country has become attractive among expats looking for job opportunities in international companies mostly located in Budapest.
Budapest – the Capital of Opportunities
Budapest has become popular among expatriates from all over the world due to its low cost of living, culture, and great employment opportunities. The capital is proud that some of the most successful international companies have opened their offices there, including Nokia, Robert Bosh, Morgan Stanley, and Vodafone.
Research Housing Options
One of the most significant advantages of living here is affordable housing options. To rent an apartment in Budapest is much cheaper than in, say, Berlin, Paris, Madrid or London.
Renting Is Quite Affordable
When deciding to become an expat and move here, most people opt for Budapest as their future home. According to the specialized website Numbeo, to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest, you will need around 500 dollars per month. The same-sized place in Paris would cost you more than twice as much.
Those looking for a bigger place should know that monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in Budapest, is approximately $1,000, while in Paris, it is around $3,000.
Learning a Language Is Challenging
Hungarian is a difficult language to learn because it is not like other languages of the Old Continent. Though English is widely spoken in Budapest, if you decide to live in some other part of the country, you will need to learn the local language.
Try to Learn Common Expressions
For making life more comfortable here, it is advisable to learn some common phrases. The good news is that locals are welcoming to newcomers, and they will be more than happy to give you some tips for learning a new language that will make your everyday interactions more natural.
You May Experience a Bit of a Culture Shock, but You Will Probably Love the Food
Hungarians are direct in their communication, so don’t be surprised if they ask you some personal questions, or tell you some intimate information about them. Bear in mind that they don’t want to offend you, that’s just their way to get to know someone.
Hungarians Are Proud of Their Heritage and Tradition
The country’s architecture is a mixture of all the nations that have occupied it over the centuries. Gothic churches, Turkish baths, and ruins from the Roman era all take part in Hungarian culture. Tradition’s also a big part of Hungarian identity. Music and dancing is something people are especially proud of.
The Food Is Quite Tasty
Those who are all about tasty and spicy food will love the Hungarian culinary scene. Be prepared for dishes with the taste of paprika that’s being used quite a lot. The street food is delicious, but bear in mind that most meals are deep-fried, so they are not particularly healthy.
If Your Christmas Wish Was to Relocate to Europe – It’s Time to Bring It to Reality
Moving across the world can be intimidating, but if you make the right choice, it can be one of the best things you’ll do in your life. Hungary is a great pick if you are looking for a vibrant job market, affordable cost of living, and a lot of entertainment options. Last but not least, to make this process as smooth as possible, you should contact a reliable moving company that offers international moving and packing services and get ready for a fantastic adventure.
