Hungary Restricts Family Reunification for Nine Foreign Permit Types

Hungary's National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing has published guidance detailing nine categories of foreign nationals whose family members are ineligible for residence permits for family reunification, effective in 2026. The disqualifying categories include individuals holding residence permits for guest self-employment for less than one year, seasonal employment, employment for investment, general employment, guest workers, holders of a White Card, study purposes, traineeship, and voluntary service.

Additionally, a specific rule states that a spouse cannot receive a family reunification permit if the sponsor's other spouse already holds a residence visa or permit on the same grounds. The guidance indicates that family reunification is reserved for sponsors with stable, long-term residence status, such as those on guest self-employment permits valid for at least one year.

Foreign nationals are advised to verify their permit category against the official list before making family relocation arrangements.