Guest workers in Hungary: Who can apply, new quotas, and what life is really like

Hungary has introduced a tightly controlled system for hiring foreign guest workers as businesses continue to face labour shortages. While companies in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics and construction increasingly rely on international employees, strict rules determine who can work in the country, how many can arrive each year, and under what conditions.

Why Hungary needs guest workers

Hungary’s unemployment rate remains relatively low, while several industries struggle to find enough employees. Large manufacturing investments by companies such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and CATL have further increased demand for labour.

As a result, Hungarian companies have turned to workers from outside the European Union. Many foreign workers currently come from countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and Kazakhstan.

However, the Hungarian government insists the programme is temporary and strictly regulated.

How foreign workers can apply for jobs in Hungary

Non-EU nationals cannot simply move to Hungary to work. They must first secure a job offer from a Hungarian employer.

The typical process involves:

• A Hungarian company applying for permission to hire foreign workers
• Recruitment agencies sourcing employees abroad
• Workers applying for a residence permit for employment
• Authorities verifying that the job cannot easily be filled by Hungarian or EU workers

In most cases, guest workers arrive with a fixed-term employment contract and a residence permit linked specifically to that job.

Many are employed in factories, warehouses, food processing plants or construction projects.

Strict limits on the number of guest workers

Hungary introduced a cap on the number of guest workers entering the country each year. The quota is intended to ensure that foreign labour does not significantly affect the domestic workforce. In 2026, the limit is 35,000.

The government has repeatedly stated that foreign workers must not settle permanently in Hungary. Residence permits are generally issued for a limited period, and workers are expected to leave the country once their contracts end.

Family reunification is also restricted under the current system, meaning most workers arrive alone.

What life is like for guest workers

Guest workers in Hungary typically live in employer-provided accommodation, often located near industrial zones or factory sites. Some companies provide dormitory-style housing, transport to workplaces and basic services.

Working hours and wages vary depending on the sector, but salaries are usually aligned with Hungarian labour regulations and minimum wage requirements (Hungary’s minimum wage for full-time workers in 2026 is HUF 322,800/EUR 810 gross, or HUF 214,662/EUR 539 net).