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Effective 1 January 2026, Hungary announced an increase of the minimum wage for EU blue card applicants.
New salary thresholds
Hungary’s decree 44/2011 by the Ministry of Interior defines the yearly wage for the blue card applications – the work permit for highly qualified third-country nationals.
Hence, local employers who wish to hire non-EU highly skilled nationals must comply with the minimum salary set. The figures are updated each year. In fact, the authorities want to ensure that the salary remains aligned to the national average wages, not to damage Hungary’s economy.
There are two main salary tiers: a standard rate for qualified professions and a reduced rate for occupations in shortage of workers. For year 2026, the standard wage will be 1,001,048 HUF (approximately €2,565) whereas the shortage occupation rate will be 800,838 HUF (approximately €2,050).
Blue card application
Employers who wish to hire a non-EU highly qualified worker in Hungary can avail of the blue card procedure. The blue card offers several advantages such as mobility within the EU, family reunification, path to permanent residence.
However, meeting the minimum salary threshold is not the only condition. In fact, among the other eligibility requirements, prospective employees must also possess a higher education qualification, recognized in Hungary. Furthermore, the employer must offer a 1-year employment contract.
Finally, it is important to notice that the salary threshold refers to the gross salary, which must be clearly specified on the employment contract. Moreover, the job offer must reflect the employee’s qualifications and market rates and the job title must require high-level qualifications.
