The National Directorate for Aliens Policing (OIF) has announced that, effective June 6, 2026, the authorities will no longer accept applications for new guest worker residence permits.
Applications received by June 5, 2026 will continue to be processed provided the administrative submission fee has been paid. Existing permit holders can still apply for an extension or reissuance under the previous rules.
The suspension of the program results from the entry into force, on June 5, 2026, of Government Decree No. 92/2026 amending Government Decree No. 450/2024 (of 23 December) on the employment of guest workers in Hungary, as well as the withdrawal of Notice No. 2/2025 specifying the list of qualifying countries. Since December 2024, the list has included only three countries – Armenia, Georgia and the Philippines.
The guest worker program enabled preferred employers to hire third-country nationals from qualifying countries to work in Hungary, including via temporary work agencies. The residence permit was valid for up to two years and could be extended for another year.
The amendment to the legislation does not affect the provisions governing applications for residence permits issued for other purposes. Further amendments to the legislation are expected in the future as the government has ordered a review.
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