Staff Recruitment in Hungary: A Practical Guide

Published on October 3, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Hungary, a country at the heart of Central Europe, offers numerous opportunities for businesses seeking to recruit qualified personnel. With its growing economy and highly skilled workforce, Hungary has become an attractive destination for international employers. In this article, we will explore in detail the essential aspects of recruiting staff in Hungary, from recruitment strategies to workers’ rights, including the legal procedures to follow.

Keys to Successful Recruitment in Hungary

Recruiting staff in Hungary requires a thorough understanding of the local labor market and current practices. To succeed in your recruitment efforts in Hungary, it is crucial to adopt a strategic and well-informed approach.

First, it’s important to note that the Hungarian labor market is dynamic and competitive. Employers must therefore stand out to attract the best talent. An effective strategy involves highlighting your company’s unique advantages, such as professional development opportunities, a stimulating work environment, or attractive social benefits.

Additionally, proficiency in the Hungarian language can be a major asset in your recruitment process. Although many Hungarians speak English, especially in large cities like Budapest, the ability to communicate in Hungarian can greatly facilitate your efforts and create a stronger connection with potential candidates.

It is also recommended to familiarize yourself with the country’s cultural specificities. Hungarians place great importance on education and professional experience. When evaluating candidates, pay close attention to their qualifications and career background.

Workers’ Rights in Hungary: What Every Employer Should Know

Hungary has a strong legal framework to protect workers’ rights. As an employer, it is essential to understand these rights well to ensure a harmonious and legally compliant working relationship.

Hungarian labor law guarantees several fundamental rights to employees. Among these is the right to a minimum wage, set by the government and regularly reassessed. In 2025, the gross minimum wage in Hungary amounts to €1,385.10 (535,000 HUF) per month for a full-time job.

Hungarian employees are also entitled to a certain number of paid vacation days per year. The exact number depends on the employee’s age and seniority in the company, but it is generally at least 20 working days per year for a full-time position.

The legal working time in Hungary is 40 hours per week. Any overtime must be paid at a higher rate. Employees are also entitled to regular breaks during their workday.

Regarding social security, employers are required to contribute for their employees. These contributions cover health insurance, retirement pensions, and unemployment insurance. It is important to note that foreign nationals working in Hungary generally enjoy the same rights as Hungarian workers.

Key Partners for Effective Recruitment in Hungary

To facilitate your recruitment process in Hungary, it may be wise to enlist specialized agencies. These partners can help you navigate the local labor market and find the best talent for your company.

Among the main recruitment agencies in Hungary are:

• Adecco Hungary: A reputable international agency offering a wide range of recruitment and human resource management services.
• Randstad Hungary: Specialized in recruiting executives and qualified professionals across various sectors.
• Manpower Hungary: Provides temporary and permanent recruitment solutions, as well as human resources consulting services.
• Kelly Services Hungary: Offers recruitment and placement services in many professional fields.

These agencies have an in-depth knowledge of the Hungarian labor market and can help you identify the best candidates for your vacant positions. They can also assist with the administrative aspects of recruitment, such as reference checks or contract negotiations.

In addition to traditional recruitment agencies, there are also online platforms specialized in employment in Hungary. Websites like Profession.hu, CVonline.hu, or Jobs.hu are very popular among Hungarian job seekers and can be excellent resources for posting your job openings.

Don’t forget the potential of professional social networks like LinkedIn, which are increasingly used in Hungary for recruitment, especially for skilled positions and executives.

Employment Contracts in Hungary: Choosing the Right Format for Your Business

In Hungary, there are several types of employment contracts, each suited to specific situations. Understanding the different options available will allow you to choose the most appropriate contract for your business and your employees.

The main types of employment contracts in Hungary are:

1. Indefinite-term contract: This is the most common type of contract in Hungary. It has no predefined end date and offers greater job security to employees.

2. Fixed-term contract: This type of contract is used for temporary or seasonal jobs. The maximum duration of a fixed-term contract in Hungary is generally 5 years.

3. Part-time contract: This is a contract for work less than 40 hours per week. The rights of part-time employees are proportional to those of full-time employees.

4. Temporary contract: This type of contract involves a tripartite relationship between the employee, the temporary agency, and the user company.

5. Simplified employment contract: This type of contract is used for seasonal or occasional jobs, particularly in agriculture or tourism.

It is important to note that all employment contracts in Hungary must be established in writing. The contract must specify the essential conditions of employment, such as the position, workplace, salary, working hours, and contract duration (for fixed-term contracts).

Additionally, the probation period in Hungary cannot exceed 3 months. This period must be explicitly mentioned in the employment contract.

Essential Documents for Compliant Recruitment in Hungary

The recruitment process in Hungary requires the preparation and collection of several important documents. Good organization and a clear understanding of documentary requirements will allow you to carry out your recruitment in full compliance with the law.

Here are the main documents required to recruit staff in Hungary:

1. Employment contract: As mentioned earlier, all employment contracts must be established in writing in Hungary. The contract must include the essential details of the employment.

2. Identity card or passport: A copy of the employee’s identity document is necessary to verify their identity and nationality.

3. Social security number (TAJ szám): Each employee must have a Hungarian social security number. For foreign workers, this number can be obtained from the National Health Insurance Fund.

4. Tax identification number: This number is necessary for tax declarations and social contributions.

5. Diplomas and certificates: Copies of the employee’s relevant diplomas and certificates may be required, especially for qualified positions.

6. Work permit: For non-EU nationals, a valid work permit is generally required. However, there are exceptions for certain categories of workers.

7. Medical certificate: In some cases, a medical certificate attesting to the employee’s fitness for the position may be required.

8. Confidentiality agreement: Depending on the nature of the position, a confidentiality agreement may be necessary to protect the company’s sensitive information.

It is important to note that foreign nationals in Hungary may be exempt from the work permit requirement in some cases, such as holders of permanent residence cards or spouses of Hungarian citizens.

The Recruitment Process in Hungary: A Step-by-Step Guide

Recruiting staff in Hungary follows a well-defined process, which may vary slightly depending on the size of the company and the nature of the position. Understanding each step of this process will help you conduct your recruitment effectively and in compliance with Hungarian legislation.

Here are the main steps of the recruitment process in Hungary:

1. Job definition: Start by clearly defining the position to be filled, including responsibilities, required qualifications, and working conditions.

2. Job posting: Publish your job opening on relevant job platforms, professional social networks, or enlist a recruitment agency.

3. Candidate screening: Review received CVs and cover letters to select the most promising candidates.

4. Interviews: Organize interviews with the shortlisted candidates. In Hungary, it is common to have multiple rounds of interviews for higher-level positions.

5. Tests and assessments: Depending on the position, you may administer skills tests or psychometric assessments to candidates.

6. Reference checks: Contact previous employers or references provided by the candidate to verify their experience and skills.

7. Job offer: Once the ideal candidate is identified, make them a formal job offer, usually in writing.

8. Contract negotiation: Discuss the terms of the contract with the candidate, including salary, benefits, and working conditions.

9. Contract signing: Once terms are agreed upon, prepare the employment contract and have it signed by both parties.

10. Employee registration: Register the new employee with the competent authorities, including the tax administration and social security.

11. Onboarding: Prepare an onboarding program to help the new employee adapt to their position and the company.

It is important to note that for non-EU nationals, additional steps may be necessary, such as obtaining a work permit before employment begins.

Conclusion: Succeeding in Your Recruitment in Hungary

Recruiting staff in Hungary offers many opportunities for businesses looking to establish or expand in this dynamic Central European country. With a qualified workforce and a well-established legal framework, Hungary presents a favorable environment for international employers.

However, as with any recruitment process abroad, it is crucial to understand the local specificities well. This includes knowledge of workers’ rights, available contract types, required documents, and the steps of the recruitment process.

By following the advice and information provided in this article, you will be well-equipped to navigate the Hungarian recruitment landscape. Remember that the key to success lies in a well-informed approach, respectful of local laws and attentive to the needs of both your company and your future employees.

Whether you choose to manage the recruitment process internally or enlist specialized agencies, good preparation and a thorough understanding of the Hungarian labor market will help you attract and retain the best talent for your company.