1. What is the EU Blue Card and how does it work?
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly skilled non-EU citizens who wish to work and live in one of the member states of the European Union. It was introduced by the EU in 2009 as a means to attract and retain highly qualified professionals from outside the EU.2. Who is eligible for the EU Blue Card?
To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, a person must meet the following criteria:
– Hold a university degree or have at least five years of professional experience in their field
– Have an employment contract or job offer from a company based in an EU member state
– The salary offered must be at least 1.5 times the average gross salary in that country
– Possess valid health insurance
– Meet any additional requirements set by the country where they will work.
3. What are the benefits of having an EU Blue Card?
Holders of an EU Blue Card are entitled to several benefits, including:
– The right to live and work in any EU member state (except Denmark and Ireland) for up to four years.
– The possibility to renew the card after four years, or after two years if working in a highly demanded occupational category.
– Equal treatment with citizens of that country regarding working conditions, social security, education, etc.
– The ability to travel freely within the Schengen area for up to three months every six-month period.
– Facilitated family reunification – immediate family members can join them without meeting additional eligibility criteria.
4. How do I apply for an EU Blue Card?
The application process may vary slightly from country to country, but generally it involves submitting your documents, such as diplomas and job contract, along with your residency application to the relevant authority in your host country. You may also need to provide proof of language proficiency and pay a processing fee.
5. How long does it take to get an EU Blue Card?
The processing time for an EU Blue Card varies depending on the country where you are applying. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
6. Can I switch jobs with an EU Blue Card?
Yes, you can switch jobs with an EU Blue Card as long as the new job still meets the eligibility criteria and salary requirements. You may need to apply for a new Blue Card if the job is in a different EU member state.
7. Can I apply for permanent residency with an EU Blue Card?
Yes, after living and working in the host country for at least five years (or four years if working in a highly demanded occupational category), holders of an EU Blue Card can usually apply for permanent residency.
8. Can I bring my family members with me if I have an EU Blue Card?
Holders of an EU Blue Card are entitled to bring their immediate family members (spouse or partner and children) with them to live in their host country. They must meet certain eligibility criteria and may need to apply for a family reunification visa.
9. Are there any limitations or restrictions with an EU Blue Card?
There may be some limitations or restrictions on an EU Blue Card, such as not being able to work in certain sectors or having to pass a language proficiency test after residing in the host country for a certain amount of time. Additionally, the card may be revoked if the holder loses their job or fails to meet renewal requirements.
2. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
To obtain an EU Blue Card in Hungary, an individual must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1. Qualifications: The applicant must hold a higher education degree, such as a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD.
2. Job offer: The applicant must have a job offer or binding job contract from a Hungarian employer for highly skilled and qualified work that is at least one year in duration.
3. Salary: The salary offered to the applicant must be at least 1.5 times the average gross monthly salary of full-time employees in Hungary in the previous calendar year (as published by the Central Statistical Office). In 2021, this amounts to at least HUF 378,000 per month.
4. Highly skilled work: The job offered to the applicant must require high level knowledge and skills, typically requiring completion of at least three years of higher education or comparable work experience.
5. Valid travel document: The applicant must hold a valid passport or other travel document recognized by Hungary.
6. Health insurance: The applicant must have valid health insurance coverage for themselves and any family members accompanying them.
7. Clean criminal record: The applicant must not have a criminal record in Hungary or their country of residence for crimes punishable by more than one year imprisonment under Hungarian law.
8. No threat to public policy, security or health: The applicant’s presence in Hungary must not constitute a threat to public policy, security or public health.
9. Residence permit application: A first-time applicant for an EU Blue Card needs to file their residence permit application with the competent consulate before they enter Hungary.
10. Consular fee payment: Applicants are required to pay an administrative fee when submitting their application for an EU Blue Card at the consulate.
3. How long is the validity of an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
The EU Blue Card is valid for a maximum of 3 years and can be extended for an additional 2 years if the employment contract is still valid. After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Hungary, EU Blue Card holders can apply for permanent residence. The validity period may also vary depending on the individual’s specific circumstances and may be limited to the duration of their employment contract. 4. Can an EU Blue Card holder bring family members to Hungary?
Yes, an EU Blue Card holder can bring their spouse and minor children to Hungary as dependents. They will need to apply for a residence permit as a family member of an EU Blue Card holder within 90 days of arriving in Hungary.
5. Is it possible to change jobs while holding an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
Yes, it is possible to change jobs while holding an EU Blue Card in Hungary. However, you will need to inform the Immigration Office and provide proof that your new job meets the requirements for the EU Blue card, such as salary level and qualifications.
6. Are there any language requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
There are no specific language requirements for obtaining an EU Blue card in Hungary. However, knowledge of Hungarian or another official language may be necessary for certain professions.
7. Can I apply for Hungarian citizenship with an EU Blue card?
No, holding an EU Blue card does not automatically grant you Hungarian citizenship or permanent residence. After 5 years of continuous legal residence through the EU Blue card, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence which can eventually lead to citizenship.
8. Are there any restrictions on working in different European countries with an EU Blue Card issued by Hungary?
No, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and have a valid employment contract that meets the minimum salary requirement set by each country, you can work in any other European country with your Hungarian-issued EU Blue card.
9. What are the main advantages of an EU Blue Card?
The main advantages of an EU Blue Card include ease of travel within the European Union, shorter processing times compared to other work permits, equal treatment with nationals in terms of working conditions and benefits, and a quicker path to permanent residence and citizenship in the hosting country. Additionally, holders of an EU Blue Card can also bring their family members to live with them in Hungary.
10. Can I apply for any type of job with an EU Blue card or are there restrictions on certain professions?
There may be restrictions on certain professions with regards to obtaining an EU Blue card. The job must require higher education or specialized skills and must meet the minimum salary requirement set by each country. Additionally, some countries may have specific shortage occupations where the minimum salary requirement is lower for non-EU citizens. It is best to check the requirements set by the country you wish to work in before applying for an EU Blue card.
4. Can I bring my family to Hungary with me if I have an EU Blue Card?
Yes, your family members (spouse and minor children) can accompany you to Hungary if you have an EU Blue Card. They will also be eligible for a residence permit as your dependents. However, they will need to apply for their own residence permits and go through the necessary application process.
5. Will I need a work permit in addition to the EU Blue Card in Hungary?
No, the EU Blue Card itself is a work permit and allows you to work legally in Hungary without the need for an additional work permit.
6. Is there a minimum salary requirement for getting an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
Yes, the minimum salary requirement for getting an EU Blue Card in Hungary is at least 1.5 times the average gross salary of full-time employees in Hungary, which is approximately € 79,000 per year (2021). This amount may vary depending on the profession and qualifications of the applicant.
7. Are there any language requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
Yes, applicants for an EU Blue Card in Hungary must have at least a B2 level of proficiency in either Hungarian or English language. This can be proven through language certificates or by passing a language exam administered by the Hungarian Chamber of Trade and Industry.
8. How quickly can I apply for permanent residence with an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
The period of time you must hold an EU Blue Card before being eligible to apply for permanent residence in Hungary is five years. This means that you can apply for permanent residence after holding the EU Blue Card for five consecutive years in Hungary.
9. Are there any restrictions on the type of work I can do with an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
There are no restrictions on the type of work you can do with an EU Blue Card in Hungary. The card allows you to work in any field or profession, as long as it corresponds with your qualifications and education. However, the job must also meet the salary requirements set by the Hungarian government (at least 1.5x the average annual gross salary).
10. Can I apply for citizenship in Hungary through the EU Blue Card program?
Yes, it is possible to apply for citizenship in Hungary through the EU Blue Card program, but you must meet certain requirements in order to be eligible. These include:
1. Holding a valid Hungarian residence permit based on the EU Blue Card for at least three years.
2. Having a basic knowledge of the Hungarian language.
3. Being financially self-sufficient and having stable and legal income in Hungary.
4. Not being convicted of any serious criminal offenses.
5. Having a place to live in Hungary.
Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for Hungarian citizenship through naturalization by submitting an application to the local government office in your place of residence. The process may take several months and requires passing a language and culture exam, as well as an interview with an immigration officer.
It is also important to note that holding an EU Blue Card does not guarantee automatic citizenship in Hungary, as it is ultimately up to the discretion of the Hungarian authorities.
11. How long does it typically take to process an application for an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
The processing time for an EU Blue Card application in Hungary varies depending on several factors, such as the completeness of the application, workload of the relevant authorities and any potential delays. However, it generally takes around 2-4 months for the Hungarian immigration authorities to process an EU Blue Card application.
12. Can self-employed individuals apply for an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
Yes, self-employed individuals can apply for an EU Blue Card in Hungary, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. This includes having a university degree or five years of professional experience in their field, a job offer from a Hungarian employer or proof of sufficient income and health insurance. They will also need to pass a criminal background check and pay the necessary fees.
13. Do I need health insurance to obtain and maintain an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
Yes, it is a requirement to have health insurance in Hungary in order to obtain and maintain an EU Blue Card. This can be either a private insurance or the public Hungarian National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK). The insurance should cover all necessary medical treatments, including emergency care, hospitalization, and repatriation of remains.
14. Is it possible to transfer my EU Blue Card from another European country to Hungary?
Yes, it is possible to transfer your EU Blue Card from another European country to Hungary, provided that you meet the eligibility requirements for an EU Blue Card in Hungary and have a valid reason for the transfer. You will need to submit a new application for an EU Blue Card in Hungary and provide proof of your previous EU Blue Card status in the other country. Your employer in Hungary will also need to provide proof that they have offered you a job with a salary that meets the minimum threshold required for an EU Blue Card.
15. Are there any special tax benefits or privileges associated with having an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
Yes, there are several tax benefits and privileges associated with having an EU Blue Card in Hungary:
1. Reduced Income Tax: Holders of the EU Blue Card are eligible for a preferential 15% flat income tax rate on their employment income for the first two years of their stay in Hungary.
2. Expedited Permanent Residence Permit: After holding an EU Blue Card for 18 months, holders may apply for a permanent residence permit in Hungary without being required to have resided in the country for at least five consecutive years.
3. Family Reunification: The family members of an EU Blue Card holder can join the holder in Hungary without having to meet any additional visa requirements.
4. Access to Social Security Benefits: EU Blue Card holders are granted access to social security benefits (such as healthcare, sickness benefits, etc.) under the same conditions as Hungarian citizens.
5. Portable Rights: If an EU Blue Card holder moves to another EU member state, they can still enjoy certain rights (such as access to employment and social security benefits) without losing their status or having to reapply for a new card.
6. Visa-Free Travel: With an EU Blue Card, holders can travel visa-free within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
It is important to note that these specific tax benefits and privileges may vary depending on individual circumstances and changes in legislation. It is recommended to consult with a tax professional or official sources for more accurate and up-to-date information.
16. Do I need a job offer before applying for an EU Blue Card in Hungary?
No, in Hungary, a job offer is not a requirement for obtaining an EU Blue Card. However, you must have a university degree and a valid employment contract or binding job offer that meets the minimum salary requirements for the position. Additionally, you must also meet all other eligibility criteria for the EU Blue Card.
17. Can students or recent graduates apply for an EU blue card right after graduation?
No, students or recent graduates cannot apply for an EU Blue Card immediately after graduation. The requirements for an EU Blue Card include having a valid work contract with a minimum duration of one year, a high level of education or specialised skills, and a salary that meets the threshold set by the member state in which they wish to work. Therefore, students or recent graduates must first secure a job offer that meets these requirements before they can apply for an EU Blue Card. It is also important to note that each member state may have additional eligibility criteria for the EU Blue Card, so it is best to check with the relevant authorities in the country where one wishes to work.
18.Am I allowed to travel outside of the Schengen area with my Hungarian-issued EU blue card?
Yes, you are allowed to travel outside of the Schengen area with a Hungarian-issued EU blue card. The EU blue card is recognized and valid in all EU member states, as well as some non-EU countries such as Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland. However, it is recommended that you check the visa requirements and specific entry rules for the country you plan to visit before traveling.
19.Is there a limit on the number of people who can receive an eu blue card each year in hungary?
Yes, there is a limit on the number of people who can receive an EU Blue Card each year in Hungary. The quota for issuing EU Blue Cards is set at 5% of the total number of work permits issued in the previous year. This means that only a limited number of EU Blue Cards can be issued each year, based on the available quota. Once this quota is reached, no more EU Blue Cards can be issued for that year.
20.What should I do if my application for an eu blue card is denied by Hungarian authorities?
If your application for an EU Blue Card is denied by Hungarian authorities, you have the right to appeal the decision within 8 days of receiving the denial notice. You can submit your appeal to the Immigration Office of Hungary.In your appeal, you should clearly state the reasons why you believe the decision was incorrect and provide any documents or evidence that support your case. It is important to follow the instructions for appealing provided by the Immigration Office and submit all required documents in a timely manner.
If your appeal is also rejected, you may seek legal assistance from a lawyer or contact an EU national contact point for help with resolving your case. Additionally, you may also consider reapplying for an EU Blue Card after addressing any issues that may have caused your initial application to be denied.