Residence permit as a student: the essentials
A student from outside the European Union stays in Hungary on a residence permit for studies. This chapter is the outline; the details and deadlines are on the official site, and your university's international office walks you through it.
- What it costs
- The procedural fee is a few tens of thousands of forints; the exact amount is on the official site.
- How long it takes
- Weeks. Apply as soon as you have your accommodation and registered address.
Who needs one
A third-country (non-EU/EEA) citizen studying here for more than 90 days. Many get the first permit or the entry visa at the Hungarian consulate at home, and the process continues in Hungary at OIF, the aliens policing authority. EU/EEA citizens need no permit, but after 90 days must request a registration certificate and an address card.
What it takes
Typically: passport, the university's admission or enrolment certificate, proof of means (bank statement or scholarship letter), proof of accommodation (the lease and the registered address), health insurance, a photo, and the completed application. For Stipendium Hungaricum holders the scholarship letter covers the means.
The application starts on the Enter Hungary online portal, which is why the lease and the address registration (previous chapter) have to be in place. An incomplete application gets a request for missing documents, and the clock keeps running.
Working alongside your studies
A study permit allows limited work: at most 24 hours a week during term, and at most 90 days or 66 working days a year full-time outside term. Check the current rule, because it has changed. The employer must see your permit. This matters when you look for a student job: a legitimate employer knows this.
Step by step
- Ask your university's international office which route applies to you (consulate or OIF) and the deadlines.
- Get accommodation with a written lease and do the address registration.
- Gather the documents, apply on the Enter Hungary portal, book an appointment if asked.
- Apply for the extension 30 days before the permit expires.
Traps
- Starting late: without accommodation the application does not start, and without the application neither does the bank and much else.
- Expiry: the extension must be filed before the permit expires; afterwards the situation is much harder.
- Working off the books: you can lose the permit over it.
Common questions
Do I need health insurance?
Yes, the application requires proof. Scholarship holders often get it included, others can buy a student package from insurers; EU students have the EHIC card for basic care. See the Arriving chapter.
Can I travel in the EU on the permit?
Short tourist trips within the Schengen area are generally possible on a Hungarian residence permit; the details and exceptions are on the official site.
What if I move during my stay?
The change of address must be reported to OIF; the extension requires your current lease.
Last checked: 2026. 09. 06. Prices and official rules change; always check the official sites before you act.
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