Europe – Hungary Visa – Long Stay – Family Visa

1. What is the process for applying for a long-stay visa to Hungary?


The process for applying for a long-stay visa to Hungary varies depending on the purpose of your stay. However, the general steps are as follows:

1. Determine the type of visa you need: Hungary offers various types of long-stay visas, including study visas, work visas, family reunion visas, and business visas. You must determine which type of visa you need before starting the application process.

2. Gather all necessary documents: The specific documents required will vary depending on your reason for travel. However, common requirements for all types of long-stay visas include a valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay in Hungary, a completed visa application form, and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

3. Fill out the online application form: Most types of Hungarian long-stay visas require applicants to fill out an online application form through the Consular Services Portal. You will need to upload scanned copies of all required documents and pay the application fee.

4. Make an appointment at a Hungarian embassy or consulate: After submitting your online application and paying the fee, you will need to make an appointment at a Hungarian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

5. Attend your appointment: At your appointment, you will need to submit all required documents and biometric data such as fingerprints and a photograph.

6. Wait for processing: It can take several weeks for your visa application to be processed. During this time, the embassy or consulate may contact you for additional information or documentation if needed.

7. Collect your visa: Once your visa has been approved, you can collect it from the embassy or consulate where you applied.

Note that additional steps may be required depending on the specific purpose and length of your intended stay in Hungary. It is recommended to check with the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your country for detailed instructions on how to apply for a long-stay visa based on your specific circumstances.

2. What documents are required for a Hungary long-stay visa application?


The documents that are typically required for a Hungary long-stay visa application include:

1. A completed and signed long-stay visa application form
2. A valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond the intended stay in Hungary
3. Two recent passport-sized photographs
4. Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Hungary (such as bank statements or a letter from your employer)
5. Travel medical insurance, covering the entire period of stay
6. Proof of accommodation in Hungary, such as hotel reservations or a rental contract
7. A letter explaining the purpose of your visit and details of your itinerary
8. Criminal record certificate from your home country (sometimes called a “police clearance certificate”)
9. Evidence of ties to your home country, such as property ownership or employment contracts, to demonstrate strong reasons for returning after your visit
10. Depending on the purpose of your visit, additional documents may be required – for example, for work or study purposes, you may need to provide a job offer letter or enrollment information from a Hungarian educational institution.

3. How long does it take to process a Hungary long-stay visa application?


The processing time for a Hungary long-stay visa application can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. Generally, it can take anywhere from 2-3 months for processing. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

4. What is the maximum duration of stay allowed on a Hungary long-stay visa?


The maximum duration of stay allowed on a Hungary long-stay visa is one year. After this period, the visa holder must apply for a residence permit if they wish to continue their stay in Hungary.

5. Is it possible to work in Hungary with a long-stay family visa?


Yes, it is possible to work in Hungary with a long-stay family visa. However, the conditions and limitations for working may vary depending on your specific situation and the type of family visa you hold. In general, if you have a Family Reunification Visa or a Residence Permit for Family Reunification, you are allowed to work in Hungary without a work permit. If you have a Long-term Visa for Study Purposes or an Employment of Foreigners Permit as the family member of an EU/EEA citizen, you may also be able to work without a separate work permit. It is important to check with the Hungarian immigration authorities for more information and to ensure that your employment is compliant with your visa status.

6. Can I bring my spouse and children with me on a long-stay family visa to Hungary?


Yes, family members of the visa holder can accompany them on a long-stay family visa to Hungary. However, they must apply for their own visas and meet all the necessary requirements for entry into the country. They may also be required to provide proof of their relationship with the visa holder and have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Hungary.

7. Are there any specific financial requirements for a long-stay family visa to Hungary?


Yes, there are financial requirements for a long-stay family visa to Hungary. The exact amount required may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each individual case, but generally it is expected that the applicant can provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while staying in Hungary without becoming a burden on the social welfare system. This may include providing bank statements, proof of employment or income, and/or a sponsorship letter from a relative or friend in Hungary who is willing to support the applicant financially during their stay. Additionally, applicants may be required to show evidence of healthcare coverage and adequate accommodation arrangements in Hungary. It is best to consult with the Hungarian embassy or consulate for specific financial requirements for your situation.

8. Do I need travel insurance for my stay in Hungary on a family visa?


Yes, travel insurance is required for all travelers to Hungary, including those on a family visa. It is important to have adequate health insurance coverage in case of any medical emergencies during your stay. Additionally, travel insurance can also cover other potential issues such as trip cancellation, lost luggage, and emergency repatriation. Your insurance should meet the minimum requirements set by the Hungarian government, which include coverage for medical expenses up to 30,000 euros and repatriation costs up to 50,000 euros. It is recommended to purchase travel insurance before your departure to Hungary to ensure that you are adequately covered during your entire stay.

9. Can I study in Hungary while on a family visa?

No, you cannot study in Hungary on a family visa. Family visas are intended for people who wish to reunite with their family members living in Hungary and not for studying purposes. If you want to study in Hungary, you will need to apply for a student visa.

10. What are the requirements for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary after staying on a family visa?


The requirements for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary after staying on a family visa are:

1. Length of stay on the family visa – You must have resided in Hungary for at least 3 years continuously on your family visa.

2. Valid residence permit – Your family visa should still be valid and not expired at the time of applying for permanent residency.

3. Adequate accommodation – You must have adequate accommodation in Hungary during your stay, as evidenced by a lease agreement or ownership documents.

4. Financial stability – You must show proof of financial stability and means to support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Hungary.

5. Valid passport – Your passport should still be valid for at least 6 months at the time of submitting your application.

6. Sufficient knowledge of Hungarian language – You may need to demonstrate a basic level of proficiency in the Hungarian language, depending on the type of family visa you hold and the length of your stay.

7. No criminal record – You should not have any criminal record or any pending criminal cases in Hungary or any other country.

8. Integration into Hungarian society – You may be required to attend an interview with immigration authorities to assess your integration into Hungarian society.

9. Health insurance – You must have valid health insurance coverage for yourself and any dependents during your stay in Hungary.

10. Payment of fees – A fee is required for submitting an application for permanent residency, which can vary based on individual circumstances and type of visa held.

11. Will I be required to provide biometric data during the application process for a family visa to Hungary?

Yes, biometric data is required for all visa applicants aged 12 and above. This includes fingerprints and a digital photograph.

12. How much is the application fee for a long-stay family visa to Hungary?

The application fee for a long-stay family visa to Hungary is 60 EUR. However, this fee may vary depending on the exchange rate and any additional services requested during the visa application process.

13. Is there an age limit for children included in a family visa application?

There is no specific age limit for children included in a family visa application. Generally, children under the age of 18 can be included as dependents in a family visa application. It is important to note that each country may have its own requirements and restrictions for dependent children on family visas. It is recommended to check with the appropriate immigration authority for specific information related to your situation.

14. Can I renew my long-stay family visa before it expires?

Yes, you can renew your long-stay family visa before it expires. It is important to start the renewal process at least 3 months before the expiration date of your current visa.

To renew your long-stay family visa, you will need to follow the same application process as when you initially applied for the visa. This includes providing all necessary documents and paying the required fees.

You should also keep in mind that the renewal process may vary depending on the country and embassy or consulate where you are applying. It is best to check with the relevant immigration authorities for specific instructions and requirements for renewing your family visa.

15. Are there any restrictions on traveling within Europe while on a Hungarian long-stay visa?


There are generally no restrictions on traveling within Europe while on a Hungarian long-stay visa. However, it is important to keep in mind that the purpose of your stay in Hungary should match the type of visa you have obtained. If your visa allows you to work or study in Hungary, you may need to obtain additional permits or visas for other European countries where you plan to work or study. It is always best to check with the immigration authorities in both Hungary and the other countries you plan to visit before traveling.

16. Will I be required to show proof of accommodation during my stay in Hungary?


Yes, you will likely be asked to show proof of accommodation during your stay in Hungary. This could include a hotel reservation confirmation, a rental agreement, or a letter from a friend or family member stating that you will be staying with them. It is always best to have this documentation ready when entering the country.

17. Does having relatives or friends living in Hungary affect my chances of getting a long-stay family visa?

No, having relatives or friends living in Hungary does not directly affect your chances of getting a long-stay family visa. However, it may indirectly impact your application if you can demonstrate strong ties to Hungary, such as through family support and accommodation arrangements, which could strengthen your case for obtaining a long-stay visa. Ultimately, the decision to grant a visa will depend on individual circumstances and meeting all necessary requirements.

18.Are there any language requirements for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary after residing on a family visa?


Yes, there are language requirements for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary after residing on a family visa. According to the Hungarian Residence Law, applicants must demonstrate basic knowledge of the Hungarian language in order to be eligible for permanent residency. This can be proven by passing a language exam or providing a certificate from a recognized language school. Alternatively, if the applicant is unable to take or pass a language exam due to age or health reasons, they may provide proof of successful integration into Hungarian society, such as employment or enrollment in an educational institution.

19.How can I track the status of my long-stay family visa application to Hungary?


You can track the status of your long-stay family visa application by contacting the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country. They will be able to provide you with updates on your application and inform you of any missing documents or additional information required.

Alternatively, you may also check the status of your application online through the Hungarian Immigration Office’s website. You will need to enter your application number and other personal information to access this service.

Finally, if you have hired an immigration lawyer or consultant to assist with your visa application, they may also be able to provide you with updates on the status of your application.

20.Is there an interview as part of the application process for a Hungarian long-stay family v


Yes, there is an interview as part of the application process for a Hungarian long-stay family visa. The purpose of the interview is for immigration authorities to determine the validity and sincerity of the applicant’s reasons for staying in Hungary. During the interview, they may ask about the applicant’s family ties in Hungary, their financial situation, and their plans during their stay. It is important to be honest and provide all necessary documentation to support your application during the interview.