Want to work in a European country that’s full of ancient history, eclectic culture and a variety of travel opportunities? Here’s our Guide to Working in Hungary.

Accommodation

The cost of living in Hungary will vary across areas of the country. The capital, Budapest, is likely to have a higher cost of living than more regional areas. However, here are the average rents and bills to help you plan your budget:

  • Studio Apartment Accommodation – One month’s rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest city centre would be around €468.
  • Suburban Accommodation – One month's rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest suburb would cost you around €350.
  • Monthly Utility Bill for Budapest – Utilities for one month for 2 people in a 85m2 flat in Budapest will cost around €144.

Transport

Budapest is the only city in Hungary with an extensive public transportation system. The country’s transport options include a combination of metro, tram and commuter buses. Buses are the best bet for reaching the more out-of-the way places in Budapest.

Working in Hungary offers the opportunity to visit other incredible countries around Europe, which include:

  • Croatia – Enjoy beautiful countryside, deserted beaches and ancient walled towns.
  • Austria – Experience both outdoor landscapes and urban activities in Austria. Climb alpine mountains and explore imperial Vienna.
  • Romania – Visit old stone churches and dazzling monasteries after walking across vast mountains and rolling hills. Take a trip to vibrant Bucharest for a unique city break.

Culture

The rich culture is strong in folk traditions and has its own distinctive style, influenced by various ethnic groups including the Roma people. Music of all kinds,
from classical to folk, is an important part of everyday life, as is the country’s rich literary heritage. Crafts such as ceramics and embroidery, Hungary’s traditional cuisine, strong fruit brandies, dance and popular spa treatments all reflect a fascinating heritage.

Hungary’s 10 million residents are vibrant, friendly and value the family above all else. Generations often live in the same household under one roof and grandparents have a lot of involvement in the upbringing of their grandchildren.

Taxes

There may be different tax rates for residents (Hungarian citizens with exception of dual citizens without Hungarian residence, EEC member state citizens with more than 183 days of staying, third country citizens with residence permit and persons only with Hungarian residence) and non-residents (if they earn income from Hungary or according to an international convention they earn income that is taxable in Hungary).

Hungary has a personal income tax rate of 15% of the tax base. For resident taxpayers, the tax base is their whole income, while in the case of non-resident taxpayers it represents their locally taxable incomes.

Language

Hi = Szia
Yes = Igen
No = Nem
Thank You = Köszönöm
Bye-Bye = Viszlát
Sorry = Sajnálom
I'm = Vagyok
You're welcome = Szívesen
How are you ? = Hogy vagy?
Well = Jól

Pensions

The country's pension scheme is a mandatory, uniform, defined benefit pay-as-you-go system. An earnings-related public pension is combined with a minimum pension. The public pension system is a pay-as-you-go-financed, defined benefit (DB) scheme, covering all employees, including the self-employed. Mandatory schemes were introduced in 1998.

Education

Compulsory education begins with the obligatory pre-school year, usually at the age of 5. From the ages of 6 to 16 school is mandatory for all Hungarians. Most children attend Free State schools. Private school charge fees but are subsidized by the state.

After finishing primary school (általános iskola) students can decide between three options: high school (gimnázium),vocational school (szakmunkásképzö iskola) or trade school (Szakközépiskola). All Hungarians must complete 8 years of elementary school plus two more years in one of the above schools.

To study at a Hungarian university (egyetem) or college (Szakiskola / föiskola) you need a certification of secondary education.

Things to Do – Entertainment & Activities

  • Castle Hill – A kilometre-long limestone plateau towering 170m above the Danube.
  • Parliament – Government buildings designed and completed in 1902, the Hungarian Parliament offers 691 luxuriously decorated rooms.
  • Esztergom Basilica – The largest church in Hungary sits on Castle Hill, and its 72m-high central dome can be seen from miles away.
  • Eger Castle – Built in the 13th century.
  • Great Synagogue – The stunning building is the world's largest Jewish house of worship outside New York City.

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