What are the main immigration pathways to Hungary?

Hungary rebuilt its immigration system under Act XC of 2023, effective 1 January 2024, replacing older categories with a clearer, more restrictive set of permits administered through the Enter Hungary platform. For work, the main routes are the Residence Permit for Employment Purposes (the standard single permit, now capped and, for non-graduate roles, limited by nationality), the EU Blue Card for highly qualified workers (open regardless of nationality), the specialised Hungarian Card, and the White Card for digital nomads working remotely for foreign employers.

Investors can use the relaunched Guest Investor Residence Permit, with options now limited to an approved real-estate fund investment or a donation to a Hungarian higher-education institution. There are also student, researcher and family reunification routes — though, importantly, many temporary-work and student permit holders cannot sponsor family under the new law. Longer-term status comes through the National Residence Card (permanent residence, generally after three years) or the EU Residence Card (EU long-term residence after five years).

The rules are changing quickly, and salary thresholds, fees and quotas are set by decree and updated regularly, so confirm the current position on the official portal before relying on older guidance. ACME can help you map your situation to the right route from the start.