Hungarian Citizenship
Full European Status
The highest level of the immigration process. Become a full citizen of the European Union, obtain voting rights and one of the world's strongest passports. We guide you through every step of the naturalization procedure, from application to the ceremonial oath.
The Naturalization Procedure in Detail
Not a subjective right, but state recognition.
Acquiring Hungarian citizenship (naturalization) differs fundamentally from all other permit types. While for residence permits, the authority is obliged to issue the permit if conditions are met, granting citizenship is a discretionary power of the Head of State (the President of the Republic).
Proving Integration The legislator’s aim is that only those who have proven their integration into Hungarian society receive citizenship. This rests on three pillars:
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Continuous Residence: Years of long-term, uninterrupted residence in Hungary.
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Subsistence and Housing: A stable existence, clean criminal record.
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Language Proficiency: This is the most critical point. The applicant must pass a successful exam in the Hungarian language and on constitutional basics (unless exempt).
Dual Citizenship Hungary recognizes the institution of dual (or multiple) citizenship. With naturalization, you do not have to renounce your original citizenship (unless your country of origin regulates this otherwise). Thus, you may preserve your roots while choosing a new home.
Basic Conditions for Naturalization
8 years
As a general rule, 8 years of continuous residence is required. (For spouses or by birth, this may be reduced to 3-5 years).
1. Waiting Period
Constitutional Basics
Exam in Hungarian regarding the state structure, history, and literature (can be waived above a certain age or with a degree).
2. Examination Obligation
Top 10 in the World
With a Hungarian passport, you can travel visa-free to the USA, Canada, and most countries of the world.
3. Passport Strength
Zero Tolerance
Strict national security screening. There must be no criminal proceedings against you.
4. Clean Criminal Record
Who is it Available For?
Citizenship is for those who have permanently committed themselves to Hungary.
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For Long-term Residents: Who have lived here for at least 8 years in immigrant or settled status.
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For Spouses: In the case of marriage to a Hungarian citizen, the waiting period is preferential (can be reduced to up to 3 years if there is a common child).
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For Descendants: Whose ancestors were Hungarian citizens (Simplified naturalization).
The Role of First Immigration: The procedure is not just a legal one, but a "cultural" exam as well. We not only compile the documents precisely but also assist in preparation: we organize mock exams, connect you with a language teacher, and prepare you for the official personal interview so that your language proficiency is convincing.
Privileges of Citizenship
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EU Passport: Free movement, residence, and employment in any Member State of the European Union (not just Hungary).
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Voting Rights: You can have a say in the future of the country and the EU in elections.
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Diplomatic Protection: During stays abroad, you are entitled to Hungarian (and EU) consular protection.
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Hereditary Status: Your children automatically become Hungarian citizens, wherever they are born in the world.
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Visa Waiver: Travel to the USA (ESTA), Canada, and Australia without visa administration.
The Path to the Oath
Weighing the Odds
We verify the residence period and the clean criminal record. More importantly: in a short conversation, we assess your Hungarian language proficiency and tell you honestly whether it is sufficient for the exam or if preparation is needed.
The Learning Phase
We help with applying for the exam. The exam takes place in Hungarian and covers Hungary's history, literature, and constitution. (In certain cases, e.g., over 60 years of age or with a Hungarian degree, you may be exempt from this).
Personal Administration
We submit the application at the Government Window (Kormányablak) or the Registrar. Language proficiency matters here: you must communicate with the administrator in Hungarian. We will be there as support.
The Period of Patience
This is the longest phase (it can be 1-2 years). The authorities conduct a full screening of the applicant. The final decision is signed by the President of the Republic.
The Ceremonial Moment
After a successful decision, you take a ceremonial oath of citizenship before the mayor. Following this, you can immediately apply for your Hungarian passport and identity card.
Questions About Naturalization
Q1: How well do I need to know Hungarian? The expected level: conversational. It is not enough to understand "kitchen language"; you must be able to manage affairs independently and understand the exam questions. The exam consists of a written and an oral part.
Q2: Can citizenship be bought via investment? No. The Guest Investor Program (GIP) grants a residence permit, not citizenship. For citizenship, residence for a defined period and language proficiency are mandatory. There is no "loophole."
Q3: How long is the administration? The citizenship procedure is not fast. From the submission of the application, the decision takes an average of 12-18 months, but this may vary individually.
Q4: Do my children get it with me? Yes. Minor children can be naturalized together with the parent; they usually do not need to take a separate exam (depending on age), and they are adjudicated together with the parent's application.
The Final Step Towards Complete Security
Prepare your future. Our experts assess whether you are ready for the naturalization procedure.
Immediate
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