Eligibility Quiz
Are you a third-country national (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen)?
Overview
The Residence Permit for Family Reunification is a long-term immigration pathway designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens (third-country nationals) who wish to live in Hungary with a family member already legally residing there. This permit bridges the gap between family members, allowing them to maintain a shared household under the legal framework of Act XC of 2023.
It is important to distinguish this from the Residence Card for family members of EEA citizens. This specific pathway is for those joining a "sponsor" who is either a Hungarian citizen or a third-country national holding a specific type of Hungarian residence permit. Under the major legal overhaul of 2024, this pathway has become more restrictive regarding which sponsors are eligible to bring their families.
Rights as a Family Reunification Permit Holder
Holding this permit grants you several legal protections and opportunities, though some rights are not automatic.
- Residence and Travel: You have the right to reside in Hungary for the duration of your permit (typically 3–5 years, or up to 10 years for families of Guest Investors). You may travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Work Rights: You do not have an automatic right to work. To work, you must undergo a "Single Application Procedure" to link your residence permit with a work authorization.
- Family Reunification: As a holder of this permit, you generally cannot act as a sponsor for other family members.
- Path to Permanent Residency: Years spent on a family reunification permit count toward the residency requirements for a National Settlement Permit (Permanent Residence), usually after 3 years of continuous residence.
- Independent Status: If you have held this permit for at least 5 years, or in the event of the sponsor's death, you may be eligible to apply for an independent residence permit that is no longer tied to the sponsor.
- Access to Services: You have access to public education and, depending on your insurance status, the Hungarian healthcare system.