IN BUDAPEST FOR WORK PURPOSES

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is not only a captivating tourist destination but also a hub for business and professional opportunities. Grab our Step-by-Step Guide to Work in Budapest as a Foreigner. Whether you’re visiting Budapest for a business trip, a conference, or an extended work assignment, here’s what you need to know:

Business Etiquette:

  • Professional Attire: Hungarians typically dress formally in business settings. Men should wear suits and ties, while women should opt for professional attire. Always be well-groomed and maintain a neat appearance.
  • Greetings: In a business context, Hungarians often address each other with titles and surnames. A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact during greetings are common practices.
  • Punctuality: Punctuality is highly regarded in Hungarian business culture. Arrive on time for meetings and appointments to show respect for your colleagues and associates.

Communication:

  • Language: The official language in Budapest is Hungarian. While many business professionals in Budapest speak English, learning a few basic Hungarian phrases can be beneficial and appreciated.
  • Business Cards: Exchanging business cards is a common practice. Have your business cards printed in both English and Hungarian, with the Hungarian side on top when offering them.

Networking:

  • Budapest has a vibrant business community with various networking events, conferences, and industry-specific gatherings. Check local event listings and consider attending to expand your professional network.

Working Spaces:

  • Budapest offers a range of co-working spaces and business centers, such as Impact Hub Budapest and Kaptár. These provide flexible office solutions and opportunities to collaborate with local and international professionals.

Work Permits and Visas:

  • Ensure you have the appropriate work permit or visa if required for your stay. Hungary is part of the European Union, and EU citizens have the right to work in Hungary without a separate work permit.

Main Hiring Agencies:


Randstad Hungary:

  • Overview: Randstad is a global staffing and workforce solutions provider with a presence in Budapest. They offer a range of employment opportunities in various industries.
  • Website: Randstad Hungary

Hays Hungary:

  • Overview: Hays is an international recruitment agency with a Budapest office. They specialize in connecting job seekers with employers in fields such as finance, IT, and engineering.
  • Website: Hays Hungary

Grafton Recruitment:

  • Overview: Grafton Recruitment provides recruitment and workforce solutions in Budapest. They have a broad range of job openings across different sectors.
  • Website: Grafton Recruitment

Prohumán 2004 Kft:

  • Overview: Prohumán is a Hungarian recruitment and HR consulting company based in Budapest. They offer services in recruitment, selection, and workforce management.
  • Website: Prohumán 2004 Kft

Von Poll Real Estate Hungary:

  • Overview: Von Poll is a real estate agency in Budapest. They provide job opportunities in the real estate and property management sector.
  • Website: Von Poll Real Estate Hungary

Adecco Hungary:

  • Overview: Adecco is a well-known staffing and workforce solutions company with a presence in Budapest. They offer a wide range of job opportunities in various industries.
  • Website: Adecco Hungary

Manpower Hungary:

  • Overview: Manpower is a global staffing agency with an office in Budapest. They provide job placement services in different sectors.
  • Website: Manpower Hungary

Kelly Services Hungary:

  • Overview: Kelly Services is an international staffing agency with an office in Budapest. They offer job opportunities in areas such as finance, IT, and engineering.
  • Website: Kelly Services Hungary

Tempo-Team Hungary:

  • Overview: Tempo-Team is a staffing and workforce solutions provider with a presence in Budapest. They offer job opportunities in various fields.
  • Website: Tempo-Team Hungary

Trenkwalder Hungary:

  • Overview: Trenkwalder is a Hungarian HR and staffing company. They offer a wide range of job opportunities across different sectors.
  • Website: Trenkwalder Hungary

Exclusive Manpower Kft:

  • Overview: Exclusive Manpower is a Budapest-based recruitment agency. They specialize in providing workforce solutions in the automotive industry.
  • Website: Exclusive Manpower Kft

Profession.hu:

  • Overview: Profession.hu is a job portal in Hungary that lists job vacancies from various employers and industries. Job seekers can search and apply for positions on their website.
  • Website: Profession.hu

EuroVértex Kft:

  • Overview: EuroVértex is a Hungarian company that offers recruitment and HR services. They assist job seekers in finding employment opportunities.
  • Website: EuroVértex Kft

Unisys Hungary Kft:

  • Overview: Unisys is a global IT company with a presence in Budapest. They often have job openings in the IT and technology sector.
  • Website: Unisys Hungary Kft

S&T Consulting Hungary Kft:

  • Overview: S&T Consulting is an IT consulting and services company with an office in Budapest. They may have employment opportunities in the IT and technology fields.
  • Website: S&T Consulting Hungary Kft

Step-by-Step Guide to Work in Budapest as a Foreigner

Working in Budapest as a foreigner can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it requires careful planning and adherence to specific procedures. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process of working in Budapest legally and efficiently:

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility:

  • Before making the move, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements to work in Hungary. As a member of the European Union (EU), Hungary has specific rules for EU and non-EU citizens. Verify the work visa and permit requirements based on your nationality.

Step 2: Secure a Job:

  • Find a job in Budapest before your arrival, as this is a crucial step in the work permit application process. Your prospective employer in Hungary must provide a job offer and assistance with your work permit application.

Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit:

  • If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’ll likely need a work permit. Work with your employer to submit the necessary documents to the Hungarian Employment Service (Foglalkoztatási Szolgálat) or the Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office (OIN).

Step 4: Obtain a Visa:

  • Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-stay visa or residence permit. Visit the nearest Hungarian consulate or embassy in your home country to apply for the appropriate visa.

Step 5: Register Your Address:

  • Upon arrival in Budapest, you must register your address with the local authorities. Visit the nearest local government office (Kormányablak) to complete this process.

Step 6: Get Health Insurance:

  • It’s mandatory to have health insurance in Hungary. You can choose between public and private health insurance options. EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Step 7: Open a Bank Account:

  • Open a local bank account in Budapest to receive your salary and manage your finances. Bring your valid passport, residence permit, and proof of address to the bank.

Step 8: Tax Identification Number (TIN):

  • You’ll need a Hungarian Tax Identification Number (TIN) for tax purposes. Apply for a TIN at the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) office.

Step 9: Social Security Contributions:

  • Be aware of the Hungarian social security system and your obligations as an employee. Your employer will withhold social security contributions from your salary.

Step 10: Language and Culture:

  • Learning basic Hungarian phrases can help you navigate daily life and communicate effectively. Immerse yourself in Budapest’s rich culture and history by exploring its museums, cuisine, and traditions.

Step 11: Integration:

  • Engage with Budapest’s international community and local expatriate groups. Attend networking events, cultural festivals, and meetups to build a social and professional network.

Step 12: Stay Informed:

  • Stay updated on any changes in Hungarian immigration and employment laws. Check the website of the Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office for official information.