Can Kenyans work in Hungary?
Yes. To get a legal job in Hungary, Kenyan citizens must apply for a work permit along with a residence permit. Without these documents, employers cannot hire you, and violations may result in penalties.
Jobs in Hungary for Kenyan citizens
Hungary offers many opportunities for Kenyans. Popular options include:
- Manufacturing and automotive — jobs at factories for welders, electricians, machine operators, and quality inspectors.
- Logistics and warehouses — work as loaders, drivers, couriers, or packers.
- Construction — bricklayers, plumbers, electricians, and fitters are in high demand.
- Hotels and restaurants — cooks, waiters, cleaners, especially in tourist hotspots.
- Agriculture — seasonal farm or greenhouse jobs.
- Offices and call centers (SSC/BPO) — customer support for those fluent in English, German, or French.
- IT and engineering — programmers, testers, and specialists in technology or automation.
Hungary work permits for Kenyan citizens
To work in Hungary, Kenyans can apply for different permits depending on the job:
- A work permit for a specific vacancy, issued after labor checks show no Hungarian/EU candidates. Doesn’t include residence rights.
- The Single Permit, the most popular option, which covers both living and working in Hungary.
- A seasonal permit for up to 90 days a year, mostly for farm and tourism jobs.
- The EU Blue Card, given to qualified specialists with higher education and higher pay.
Permits normally last for up to 2 years and can later be renewed.
How can Kenyans obtain a work permit in Hungary?
- Employer’s application — the process always starts with the Hungarian employer. They prepare the required paperwork, including a draft job contract, and submit it to the regional immigration and labor office. This step officially confirms the company’s need to hire a foreign worker.
- Labor market test — once the application is received, the authorities carry out a check to see if any Hungarian or EU citizen can fill the position. If no suitable candidate is found within about 30–60 days, permission can be granted to a Kenyan citizen applicant.
- Decision and work permit — after the positive outcome of the test, the foreign worker receives a work permit. With this document, Kenyans can apply for a national category D visa at the Hungarian consulate in their country of residence.
- Registration in Hungary — after entering Hungary, you must register your place of residence with the local authorities and pick up your plastic residence permit card. This card proves your legal right to stay and work in the country.
Documents Kenyans must prepare for a Hungarian work permit
- Passport — it must be valid throughout the planned period of residence and work. Authorities often check for at least six months of validity left.
- Work contract or official job offer — issued by a Hungarian employer, this document proves you have secured a job in the country.
- Passport-size photos — several recent photos that comply with official biometric requirements.
- Certificate of no criminal record — an official paper from your home country confirming that you have no convictions.
- Educational proof — diplomas, training certificates, or other evidence of your professional skills.
- Medical insurance — coverage for the entire period of stay is required to ensure you have access to healthcare in Hungary.
- Accommodation confirmation — you must provide proof of where you will stay in Hungary, such as a lease, rental agreement, or hotel reservation.
How Kenyan citizens can apply for a work permit renewal in Hungary?
- Timely submission — at least 30 days before your current permit expires, submit the renewal application to NDGAP.
- Gather necessary documents — this includes a valid passport, residence permit, updated employment contract, rental agreement or housing confirmation, valid medical insurance, a recent photo, and proof of financial resources.
- Pay the renewal fee — approximately €100 must be paid to process the request.
- Await results — the review period usually lasts from one to two months. In the meantime, a temporary stamp in your passport ensures you can continue to work legally.
Duration of work permit extension in Hungary for Kenyans
A work permit is extended to match the length of the new or updated job contract. However, the maximum period is two years. Once it expires, you may apply again for another extension.
Do Kenyan citizens need a work visa for Hungary?
Yes. To enter Hungary for employment, Kenyans must apply for a D-type national visa. The visa is granted only once the Hungarian employer has secured permission for your work.
How can Kenyan citizens obtain a work visa to Hungary?
- Work permit from the employer — everything starts with a job offer. A Hungarian employer must submit documents to the Immigration and Labor Office to obtain permission for hiring a foreign worker. Without this approval, applying for a visa is impossible.
- Book an appointment — after the work permit is approved, Kenyan citizen applicants need to reserve a time slot at the Hungarian consulate or visa center. Since dates are often limited, booking should be done in advance.
- Prepare all documents — the package usually includes a valid passport, signed employment contract, recent photos, proof of accommodation, and medical insurance.
- Consulate interview — the applicant attends an interview at the consulate, where the purpose of travel and job details are checked. Biometric data such as fingerprints and photos are also collected.
- Application review — the decision usually takes 4–6 weeks. Authorities verify your employment documents and ensure the job offer is valid.
- Visa issuance — if successful, you receive a category D national visa, which allows you to travel to Hungary and later apply for a residence permit.
- Registration after arrival — once in Hungary, you must register your local address within 30 days and collect your residence card, unless you already hold a single work-and-residence permit.
Required documents for Kenyans applying for a Hungarian work visa
- Valid passport — it must remain valid at least six months beyond your arrival in Hungary.
- Job contract or job offer — an official document from your Hungarian employer confirming your position.
- Completed visa form — submitted to the Hungarian consulate or visa center.
- Work permit approval — previously issued by Hungarian authorities after the employer’s application.
- Police clearance — a certificate proving that you have no criminal record.
- Proof of financial stability — documents such as bank statements or proof of income.
- Health insurance — valid for the entire period of stay.
- Passport photo — meeting Hungarian biometric requirements.
- Consular fee receipt — confirmation of payment for visa processing.
Hungarian work visa cost for Kenyan citizens applicants
The consular fee for a work visa (type D) is generally set at €60–80. The exact fee depends on the visa center or consulate where you apply. If the visa is refused, the money is not refunded.
Can Kenyan citizens bring family to Hungary on a work visa?
Yes. Spouses and minor children are eligible for a family reunification residence permit. This document allows them to live in Hungary for the same time as the main applicant’s visa or residence card.
The family must apply separately through the consulate or immigration office, showing proof of relationship, residence, and valid health insurance.
Hungary can be a good choice for employment for foreigners for several reasons:
Growing economy: Hungary has a stable and growing economy that attracts foreign investment and creates employment opportunities. In recent years, the country has seen steady GDP growth, making it an attractive destination for job seekers.
Central location: Hungary's central location in Europe makes it a strategic hub for business and trade. This provides easy access to other European countries, allowing professionals to explore opportunities outside Hungary.
Skilled workforce:Hungary boasts a highly skilled and educated workforce. The country pays considerable attention to education and its universities are known for their quality programs. This qualified talent pool offers advantages for businesses looking for competent employees.
Competitive salaries: Hungary offers competitive salaries, especially in comparison to other Western European countries;
Emerging sectors: Hungary has growing sectors that offer employment prospects for foreigners. These sectors include information technology (IT), engineering, manufacturing, finance, shared services, pharmaceuticals and tourism. Jobs can be found in multinational companies, start-ups, and local businesses.
Favorable business environment: Hungary has implemented various measures to support business and attract foreign investment. The government has introduced tax incentives, grants and financing programs to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation;
Language advantage: Although Hungarian is the official language, many international companies and businesses in Hungary operate in English. This can be an advantage for those who do not speak Hungarian, as knowledge of English is in demand in the labor market.
What vacancies are popular in Hungary?
The most popular jobs in Hungary are in retail, food processing, customer service, administrative and operational workers, as well as in hospitality and tourism.
What resources can I use to find a job in Hungary?
To find a job in Hungary, there are several job portals that are aimed at both locals and foreigners:
Profession.hu (https://www.profession.hu):Profession.hu is one of the largest job portals in Hungary, offering a wide range of job opportunities in various industries. It has a user-friendly interface and allows job seekers to search for vacancies by location, industry, and job type. The site is available in Hungarian and English.
CVOnline.hu (https://www.cvonline.hu):CVOnline.hu is a well-known job portal in Hungary that offers a comprehensive job database. It covers a wide range of industries and provides search options by location, industry, job responsibilities, and language requirements. The site is available in Hungarian, but offers a translation function for those who do not speak Hungarian.
Eurograduate (https://www.eurograduate.com):Eurograduate is a European job portal that provides job listings and resources for recent graduates and young professionals. It offers internship opportunities, entry-level jobs and postgraduate programs in Hungary and other European countries.
Starting a business in Hungary for a foreigner involves several key steps:
Business idea and planning:
- Develop a solid business idea and conduct market research to assess the viability of your product or service in Hungary.
- Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
Legal structure:
- Choose a suitable legal structure for your business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or a branch of a foreign company.
- Consult a lawyer or business advisor to understand the legal requirements and tax implications associated with each structure.
Company registration:
- Register your business with the Hungarian authorities: includes obtaining a tax number, company registration number, and social security registration.
- The registration process can be carried out through the electronic company registration system (Cégkapu) or with the help of a lawyer or notary.
Capital requirements:
- There are no minimum capital requirements for most types of businesses in Hungary, but some industries may have specific capital requirements.
- Prepare the necessary documentation to demonstrate your financial resources, such as bank statements or financial guarantees.
Business permits and licenses:
- Find out if your business needs special permits or licenses to operate legally in Hungary. This may depend on the industry and nature of your business.
- Consult with the relevant authorities or seek legal advice to ensure compliance with any specific regulations or licensing requirements.
Bank account and accounting:
- Open a bank account in Hungary to carry out financial transactions and manage your business finances.
Hiring employees:
- If your business needs employees, familiarize yourself with Hungarian labor laws and employment regulations.
- Register your employees with the relevant authorities, such as the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) and the National Institute of Social Security (NEAK).
Taxation and reporting:
- Learn about the Hungarian tax system and the responsibilities that are imposed on your business. This includes corporate income tax, value added tax (VAT), and social security contributions.
- Meet regular tax reporting and payment deadlines to avoid penalties and maintain a good reputation with the tax authorities.
Business support:
- Seek advice from organizations that support foreign entrepreneurs in Hungary, such as local chambers of commerce or business development agencies.
- Explore available grants, incentives, and business development programs that can help you start and grow your business.
Useful resources
If you are a foreigner looking to start a business in Hungary, here are some useful resources and organizations that can provide you with assistance and guidance:
Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency (HIPA):HIPA is a government organization that aims to attract and support foreign direct investment in Hungary. It provides information, advice and support to foreign entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in the country.
European Enterprise Network (EEN):EEN is a network of organizations that support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe. They offer services such as business matchmaking, market analysis, financing advice and access to business partners. The Hungarian branch of the EEN can provide valuable assistance to foreigners wishing to start a business in Hungary.
Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MKIK):MKIK is a non-profit organization representing the interests of business in Hungary. It offers support and resources for entrepreneurs, including information on legal regulations, business development programs, and networking opportunities.
Expat Centers and Communities: There are several expat centers and communities in Hungary that provide support and networking opportunities for foreigners. These organizations can help you connect with other expats, navigate the business environment, and provide information about local culture and business practices. For example, Expat Press Hungary (https://expat-press.com/) and InterNations (https://www.internations.org/) offer resources and public forums for expats.
Hungarian National Trade Association (MNKH):MNKH is an organization that helps foreign companies and entrepreneurs expand their business in Hungary. They provide services such as market research, business partner search and investment support.
Hungarian Intellectual Property Office (HIPO):HIPO is responsible for intellectual property rights in Hungary. If your business is related to trademarks, patents or copyrights, HIPO can provide information and assistance on how to protect your intellectual property.
Business incubators and accelerators: There are various business incubators and accelerators in Hungary that offer support, mentoring, and infrastructure for startups and entrepreneurs. These organizations can provide guidance on business development, funding opportunities, and networking. Examples of such organizations include Design Terminal and Kitchen Budapest.
Business visa to Hungary
In order to conduct business in Hungary, any non-EEA citizen must apply for a business visa. The required type of visa is a short-stay C visa.
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The following documents are required to apply for this visa:
- An invitation letter from the Hungarian company you will visit, indicating the address and date of your visit.
- A certificate from your employer about your business trip.
- A commercial bank statement for the last 6 months.
- Proof of previous trade relations between the two companies (if any)
- An original certified copy of the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association (for joint-stock companies), its trade license (first issue and most recent renewal), and any documents of ownership or partnership.
- Expenses: the employer or partner company must indicate the coverage of expenses in the letter or invitation.
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What is the validity period of a business visa?
The maximum validity of a short-term business visa C is 3 months within a 6-month period and costs 90 euros. However, the validity of this visa may vary depending on what your embassy provides you with.
Hungarian labor law regulates the rights and obligations of employers and employees, ensuring fair and equal treatment in the workplace. Here are some key aspects of the Hungarian labor law:
Employment contracts: Employment contracts in Hungary can be either fixed-term or indefinite. The contract must specify the main details, such as job responsibilities, working hours, salary, vacation rights and termination conditions. It is common practice to have written contracts in both Hungarian and English.
Working hours:The standard working week in Hungary is 40 hours, usually spread over five or six days. Overtime may be required, but it should not exceed 250 hours per year. Employees are entitled to rest breaks and a minimum of 11 consecutive hours of daily rest.
Minimum wage: There is a legal minimum wage in Hungary, which is determined by the government;
The current minimum wage in Hungary is HUF 232,000.00 per month in 2023. It came into force on January 1, 2023.
Annual vacation: Employees in Hungary are entitled to paid annual vacation depending on their length of service. The minimum annual leave is 20 working days for employees who have worked for less than 25 years. Additional days are added depending on the length of service.
Sick leave:If an employee is ill, he or she is entitled to sick leave. The duration of sick leave and the payment of sick leave benefits are regulated by law. As a rule, the employer pays for the first 15 days of sick leave, and after that, the payments are covered by the sickness fund.
Maternity and parental leave: Employees are entitled to maternity leave, which is usually 24 weeks, with additional time in case of multiple births or complications. During maternity leave, the employee receives maternity benefits. Both parents are also entitled to parental leave, which allows them to care for their child for an extended period of time.
Termination of employment: Termination of an employment contract in Hungary must be in accordance with the procedures established by law. The termination of an employment contract can be initiated by either the employer or the employee, and there are certain notice periods that must be observed. Unfair dismissal is not permitted and employees have the right to appeal against unfair dismissal.
Employment of foreigners: Foreigners working in Hungary must have a valid work permit or residence permit that allows them to be employed. Employers must comply with the relevant immigration and labor laws when hiring foreign workers.
If you are a foreigner looking for a job in Hungary, here are some tips to help you in your job search:
Study the labor market: Start by researching the labor market in Hungary to understand which industries are thriving and what skills and qualifications are in demand. Identify industries that match your experience and knowledge.
Edit your resume and cover letter: Prepare your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experience required for each job. Make sure your documents are clear, concise, and free of errors. If possible, translate them into Hungarian or provide an English version.
Use job portals: Explore popular job portals in Hungary, both general and specialized. Some of the well-known Hungarian job portals include Profession.hu, CVOnline.hu, Workania.hu, and Jobline.hu. Create profiles on these platforms and regularly check for vacancies that match your qualifications.
Network: Networking can be crucial to finding a job in Hungary. Attend industry events, career fairs, and professional meetings to network with professionals in your field. Join online networking platforms and participate in relevant discussions to expand your network.
Online presence: Make sure that your professional online presence, such as your LinkedIn profile, reflects your interest in working in Hungary. Use keywords related to your desired field of work and location to increase your visibility to potential employers.
Language skills: While English is often used in international workplaces, knowing Hungarian can be helpful. Learning basic Hungarian phrases or attending a language course can demonstrate your desire to integrate into the local culture and increase your chances of getting hired.
Company Research: Find companies in Hungary that match your career goals and values. Visit their websites, check out their job listings, and follow their social media for job updates. A proactive approach may be to contact the companies you are interested in directly.
Consider an internship or volunteering:If you are just starting your career or moving into a new industry, consider an internship or volunteering. It can give you valuable experience, help you build local connections, and increase your chances of landing a permanent job in the future.
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