Subscribe to our social channels to get the latest news about Hungary!
DE
Guest workers in Hungary: Who can apply, new quotas, and what life is really like
Change language:
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.
What you can read about below
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).
For many workers from Asia, employment in Hungary offers significantly higher wages than in their home countries, even if the jobs are physically demanding.
However, challenges also exist. Language barriers, cultural differences and distance from family can make daily life difficult. Many workers remain in Hungary only for a few years before returning home.
A politically sensitive issue
The topic of foreign workers has become increasingly debated in Hungarian politics. While the government promotes Hungary as a destination for major international investment, it simultaneously emphasises that foreign workers will only be allowed in controlled numbers.
Officials argue the system balances economic needs with the protection of Hungarian jobs. Critics, however, say the growing reliance on foreign labour highlights deeper demographic and labour market challenges.
Find more of our articles concerning guest workers here!
Sources and more information: Eurofound, OECD, European Commission
If you missed it:
Guest workers in Hungary: Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies as a guest worker in Hungary?
A guest worker in Hungary is a non-EU national who receives a temporary residence permit to work for a specific employer. Under Hungary’s immigration rules introduced in 2024, these permits are designed for short-term employment and usually apply to workers recruited for sectors experiencing labour shortages, such as manufacturing, logistics and construction.
How many guest workers are allowed to enter Hungary?
The Hungarian government sets an annual quota limiting how many guest workers can be admitted. The current cap is 35,000 workers per year, and authorities say the limit is designed to ensure that foreign labour does not significantly affect employment opportunities for Hungarian citizens.
Can guest workers settle permanently in Hungary?
No. Guest worker permits are temporary and tied to a specific job and employer. Workers are expected to leave Hungary once their contract ends, and the permit does not provide a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship. Family reunification options are also very limited under the current rules.
Which countries do most guest workers in Hungary come from?
Many guest workers in Hungary are recruited from Asian countries where labour recruitment agencies actively cooperate with Hungarian companies. Workers frequently come from the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and several Central Asian countries, although the government periodically updates the list of eligible countries.
At https://betwhales.net/, you can access a wide range of games, including classic and video slots, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer tables. The diversity is good enough for regular play without getting repetitive, and most games run smoothly even on mobile devices. The platform seems to focus on providing variety and accessibility. If you want to explore the full list of available titles and features, it’s a good idea to check a detailed BetWhale casino overview…