Hire in Hungary

Introduction

Hungary is a central European country well-known for its diverse culture in music. Throughout history, Hungary has stayed distinct due to its ethnic migrations.

Hungary is also popular for its tourism sector with some of the most famous spas and baths unlike any other. Hungary has developed its economy around exports; however, there is a shortage of skilled labor across various sectors and unemployment amongst youths. These challenges are opportunities that can be fulfilled with local and global investments.

Hungary produces important products like wheat, corn, potatoes, dairy products, etc., and is rich in natural resources. Mining, construction materials, textiles, and motor vehicles are a few of the key industries.

Overview of Hungary

Hungary has been one of the most visited tourist destinations in the past decade, with its popular natural hot springs, immaculate mountains, and world heritage sites. Hungary continues to provide a wide array of opportunities to its citizens and expatriates from all across the globe. Prominent sectors have continued to evolve even in the face of challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, making this country a hub for future business prospects and investments.‍

Population: 9.71 million‍

GDP: 181.8 billion USD‍

Economic Overview‍

Hungary portrays immense potential through key industries like textile, food processing, and agriculture. With a low unemployment rate of 4.4%, job security is guaranteed across various sectors. Hungary is a tax-friendly country with no housing and land tax, giving opportunities to investors and businesses to expand their infrastructure.

Foreign Direct Investment has played a huge role in modernizing industries over the years; this has created jobs and boosted the country’s economic growth.‍

Market Size‍

Hungary has managed to stay ahead of the competition through market awareness of the challenges posed by the Covid 19 pandemic. Hungary has plans to boost operational efficiency and diversify various sectors of its market.

A Brief Glimpse of Industries

• Medical Technologies: Hungary is a world leader in nanotechnology, molecular chemistry, and biotechnology services. In Hungary, medical equipment suppliers are EU-based manufacturers; this provides a wider scope for global companies and investors. With over 120,000 employees in the healthcare sector, Hungary is an export-driven manufacturer of medical supplies and equipment. Through technological advancements, Hungary manufactures medical devices that are exported across the world.
• Consumer Electronics and E-Commerce: Hungary is targeting its underdeveloped IT infrastructure and educational institutions to grow its e-commerce sector. Online sales and transactions have surpassed their previous estimates with the challenges posed by the pandemic, creating more opportunities for local and global businesses.
• Franchising: Franchising has been a part of Hungary’s history for over 30 years. With multinational food chains like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Burger King, etc., the scope of more multinational chains investing in Hungary has increased exponentially. There are approximately 350 companies, 50% of them are foreign-owned. With around 20,000 franchisees and over 100,000 employees, this sector promises growth prospects that rival other countries. Local franchises with various services have also increased over the years; hair salons, pharmacies, bakeries, and real estate chains are a few of the top contenders. However, there are talent gaps regarding the delivery of goods and services. These gaps present further opportunities for businesses and investors.
  

Cost of Renting

• 125,000 HUF/Month (414 USD) for a two-bedroom apartment (Budapest)
• 53,000-107,000 HUF/Month (176-355 USD) in the Southern Regions of Hungary
• 194,356 HUF/Month (645 USD) with utilities in the winter
• 171,176 HUF/Month (568 USD) with utilities in the summer

Cost of Living

The average cost of living for a single person is estimated at around 169,578 Hungarian Forint/Month (HUF) (572 USD).

The average cost of living in popular cities of Hungary is -

• 181,640 HUF/Month (612 USD) for Budapest
• 186,993 HUF/Month (631 USD) for Eger
• 180,177 HUF/Month (608 USD) for Szeged
• 208,922 HUF/Month (705 USD) for Debrecen

Hiring Cost

The average monthly salary in Hungary is around 493,000 HUF (1,663 USD). These include housing, transport, and other work benefits specific to the type of job.

• Minimum Salary – 125,000 HUF/Month (421 USD)
• Median Salary – 523,000 HUF/Month (1,764 USD)
• Average Hourly Wage – 2,840 HUF (9.58 USD)

Salary Structure for Various Roles

Employment Laws

Regarding Labor Law, the Hungarian legislation functions with the guidance of the European Legislation. In the event of a labor dispute, the court usually protects the employee’s rights, outlined by the Labor Code, collective bargaining agreements, and employment contracts.

Fixed Term Employment and Indefinite Term employment usually sum up the relationship between the employer and employee regarding any contract. A written contract is an absolute must. It is the employer’s responsibility to set the terms and mention them in writing.

Employee benefits are provided by most of the jobs in Hungary. Many companies have made it mandatory to provide basic benefits.

Employee Benefits:

• 10,000 HUF/Month (33.76 USD) Food Voucher
• School Vouchers
• Local transport season ticket
• Pension Fund Additions
  

Hungary Remote Hiring Trends 2025

Skills, Pay, Perks, and More

The demand for skilled workers is rising in Hungary — a pattern consistent with global trends.

Ranking 27th globally, Hungary has a major competitive advantage in high-skill workers. According to the European Center for the Development of Vocational Training, the fastest-growing jobs in Hungary until 2030 are expected to be:

• Office associate professional
• Teaching professional
• Researcher
• Engineer

Pay increases across various skill sets and professions were anticipated to hit 7% for skilled workers, with 68% of employees expecting a pay raise. In practice, around 59% of Hungarian employees have already received a pay increase averaging 12.7%. However, around 50% of Hungarian workers are dissatisfied with current employment conditions, according to a ManpowerGroup survey. Many Hungarian employees are experiencing burnout, particularly in care professions, which affects their overall quality of life.

Employers looking to find top remote talent in Hungary may be wise to offer compensation beyond the financial. Topping job considerations and priorities among Hungarian workers, and more so among experienced managers, are work-life balance and more opportunities to work from home. Skilled remote workers are increasingly prioritizing career development, flexibility, and workplace culture along with salaries.  

Remote Hiring Activity in Hungary

As an international employer, be aware of these factors as you seek local and foreign remote talent in Hungary:

• Upward movement in salaries and wages across skill sets and professions
• Growing demand for skilled workers
• Population redistribution in response to COVID-19 remote work realities
• Huge skill disparities between urban and rural communities
• More progressive labor regulations incentivizing new job market entrants  

How Can Skuad Help You with Hiring in Hungary?

Hungary provides many opportunities for investors, businesses, and expatriates wishing to settle in this beautiful country. Navigating through these opportunities may seem overwhelming, but not anymore. Skuad helps to facilitate businesses all across the globe. They act as the legal employer for organizations looking to hire in Hungary, thereby bridging the talent gap in various countries. Connect With Skuad Experts today!

FAQs

How to Hire Employees in Hungary?

Companies can hire employees in Hungary either by establishing a local legal entity (e.g., Kft or branch office) or by partnering with an Employer of Record (EOR). An EOR legally employs workers on behalf of the foreign company and manages payroll, tax filings, employment contracts, and compliance, allowing companies to operate without setting up a local subsidiary.

What is the Minimum Wage in Hungary?

As of 2025, the statutory minimum wage in Hungary is:

• HUF 290,800 per month (~USD 810) for unskilled labor
• HUF 348,800 per month (~USD 971) for skilled positions (guaranteed minimum wage)

Minimum wage rates are typically updated annually and may vary slightly by sector or region.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Employees in Hungary?

Hiring in Hungary typically costs employers 113–120% of an employee’s gross salary. This includes a 13% social tax, a 1.5% vocational training fund contribution, and paid leave. Many employers also offer bonuses and benefits like healthcare or meal vouchers. Using an Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify hiring, with costs ranging from USD 300 - 600 per employee per month.

How Can a U.S. Company Pay Employees in Hungary?

A U.S. company can pay employees in Hungary through several compliant methods:

• Establishing a Local Entity: Required for direct hiring, tax registration, and payroll compliance in HUF (Hungarian Forint).
• Using an Employer of Record (EOR): The EOR manages local employment, payroll, and taxes on behalf of the U.S. company.
• Global Payroll Services: International providers can process salaries in HUF and ensure local compliance if the company has a legal presence.

What Are the Employment Laws in Hungary?

Hungarian labor law, governed by the Labor Code (Act I of 2012), sets a standard 40-hour workweek with written employment contracts required to outline key terms. Employees receive at least 20 days of paid annual leave, increasing with age and family status. Termination must be in writing, with severance pay due unless dismissal is for misconduct. Both employers and employees contribute to social insurance covering health, pensions, and unemployment. A probation period of up to three months can be agreed upon.

How to Obtain a Work Permit in Hungary?

Non-EU nationals must obtain a “Single Permit” to work in Hungary, which combines both residence and work authorization. The process requires a valid job offer, signed employment contract, proof of qualifications, a valid passport, clean criminal record, and medical clearance. Applications are submitted through the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing, either online or via a Hungarian embassy. In some cases, the employer may need to prove that no suitable local candidate was available. Processing takes 30 to 70 days, and the permit is typically valid for up to 2 years, with the option to renew.

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