Combined Work and Residence Permits to be Implemented; Longer Processing Times Expected

Longer processing times in Hungary are expected to result from the January 1, 2014 roll-out of combined work and residence permits for third-country nationals. Processing times may reach up to three months due to the new system’s implementation but could vary depending on the city where the application is lodged. Work and residence permits are currently processed in two to three months.

Exact processing times for visa nationals at Hungarian consulates are not yet known. Renewals for third-country nationals should be submitted at least three months before the expiry of the current work and residence permits.

European Union member states are required by an EU directive to adopt a single combined work and residence permit system for locally hired third-country national workers by December 25, 2013. In Hungary, the combined work and residence permit applies to non-EU national intracompany transferees and to local hires.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen Global or send an email to [email protected].