If you’re working in Hungary or planning to move there with a valid work permit, you might wonder whether your family can join you. The good news is — yes, foreign workers can bring their family members to Hungary through the family reunification residence permit.

Hungary’s immigration laws allow legally employed foreign nationals to live with their close family members, provided certain eligibility and documentation conditions are met.

Understanding Family Reunification in Hungary

The Hungarian family reunification residence permit enables non-EU citizens legally residing in Hungary to bring their immediate family members to live with them.

This policy aims to support family unity for foreign workers who have established a legal and stable life in Hungary.

Who Qualifies as a Family Member?

Under Hungarian law, the following relatives are eligible to apply for family reunification:

1. Spouse (legally married partner)

2. Minor children (under 18 years old, including adopted children)

3. Dependent adult children (if unable to support themselves due to health or disability)

4. Dependent parents (if the worker provides financial support)

Note: Unmarried partners may be considered in exceptional cases if proof of a long-term relationship and cohabitation is provided.

Key Requirements for Family Reunification

To bring your family to Hungary, the main applicant (foreign worker) must:

1. Hold a valid residence or work permit

   • The primary applicant should have a valid long-term residence permit or a work visa valid for at least 12 months.

2. Provide proof of sufficient income

   • You must show that you can financially support your family without relying on Hungarian social assistance.

3. Have suitable accommodation

   • Proof of rental agreement or property ownership in Hungary is required.

4. Health insurance coverage

   • All family members must have valid health insurance during their stay in Hungary.

Documents Required for Family Members

When applying for a family reunification visa or residence permit, the following documents are typically required:

• Valid passport (of each family member)

• Visa application form

• Marriage certificate (for spouses)

• Birth certificates (for children)

• Proof of accommodation in Hungary

• Proof of financial means (employment contract, bank statements, or salary slips)

• Proof of health insurance

• Copy of sponsor’s residence/work permit

All foreign documents must be translated into Hungarian and officially legalized or apostilled.

Application Process for Family Reunification

The process generally involves the following steps:

1. Application Submission:
   The family member applies for a residence permit for family reunification at the Hungarian Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

2. Approval by Immigration Authority:
   The National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP) reviews the application. Processing usually takes 60 to 90 days.

3. Arrival in Hungary:
   Once approved, the family members receive a residence visa and must register with local authorities upon arrival.

4. Residence Permit Issuance:
   After entering Hungary, the permit card is issued, allowing family members to stay for the same duration as the sponsor’s work permit.

Can Family Members Work or Study in Hungary?

Yes, family members who receive residence permits can:

• Study in Hungarian educational institutions; and

• Apply for separate work authorization if they wish to take up employment.

This makes Hungary an attractive destination for workers planning long-term family relocation.

Duration and Renewal of Family Permits

• The family reunification residence permit is issued for the same validity period as the primary worker’s residence permit.

• It can be renewed along with the sponsor’s permit, provided all eligibility criteria remain valid.

Benefits of Family Reunification in Hungary

Key Takeaway

Foreign workers in Hungary can bring their families through a well-defined reunification process. As long as you maintain a valid work permit, stable income, and accommodation, your loved ones can legally live, study, or even work in Hungary.