Hungary seeing processing delays as immigration office undergoes reorganization

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Internal reorganization in Hungary’s immigration office has led to processing delays that could last through May.

What does the change mean? Employers and non-EU nationals seeking single permits (i.e., work/residence permits) should expect processing times of up to 70 calendar days and even longer for some nationalities.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Single permits (i.e., work/residence permits)
• Who is affected: Employers and non-EU nationals seeking single permits.
• Business impact: Businesses may need to adjust timelines to account for the delays.

Background: While Hungarian law specifies that processing may take up to 70 days, actual processing times may be shorter or longer. In many cases, processing will be shorter for applicants whose applications are properly completed and who are not missing any supporting documents. For certain nationalities, however, applications may receive more scrutiny and applicants may be brought in for an interview, which can delay processing beyond 70 days.

BAL Analysis: Businesses should take note of the delays and plan accordingly.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Hungary. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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