Introduction
As of January 1, 2025, Hungary has introduced a mandatory cultural knowledge exam for third-country nationals applying for a National Residence Card or a European Union Residence Card. This new requirement aims to ensure that applicants possess a basic understanding of Hungarian culture, history, and societal values before being granted permanent residency.
The government justifies this measure as a step toward better integration of foreign residents, while critics argue that it may complicate the residency process and create barriers for immigrants.
Key Takeaways
✔ Mandatory cultural exam – Required for all new permanent residency applicants. ✔ Exam covers Hungarian culture, history, and social norms – Topics include national symbols, traditions, and historical events. ✔ Three-attempt limit – Applicants who fail three times cannot retake the exam. ✔ No requirement for current permanent residents – Individuals who applied before 2025 are exempt. ✔ Part of Hungary’s stricter immigration policies – The exam aligns with recent efforts to regulate foreign residency.
Exam Requirements and Structure
📌 Who Must Take the Exam?
- All third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) applying for permanent residency in Hungary.
- Those applying for National Residence Cards and EU Residence Cards after January 1, 2025.
📌 Exam Format
- Language: The test is conducted in Hungarian.
- Structure: Applicants must answer 12 multiple-choice questions.
- Topics Covered:
- Hungarian history – Major events and figures.
- National symbols – Flag, anthem, coat of arms.
- Public holidays – Their significance in Hungarian culture.
- Legal and social norms – Responsibilities of permanent residents.
- Cultural traditions – Folk customs, cuisine, and language.
- Political system – Overview of Hungary’s government and constitution.
📌 Pass/Fail Conditions
- Applicants must pass the exam to qualify for permanent residency.
- Three-attempt limit – If a candidate fails three times, they cannot retake the test.
Who Is Exempt?
📌 Exemptions from the Exam Requirement ✔ Permanent residents before 2025 – Those who received their permit before January 1, 2025, are not required to take the test. ✔ Applicants who submitted before 2025 – If an individual applied in 2024 but has not yet received approval, they will not be subject to the new exam requirement. ✔ EU Citizens – The exam does not apply to EU nationals, who follow a different residency process. ✔ Special exemptions – Certain categories, such as refugees and diplomats, may qualify for waivers.
Why Has Hungary Introduced This Exam?
📌 Government Justifications ✔ Promoting Cultural Integration – Encourages newcomers to learn about Hungarian traditions and society. ✔ Stronger Immigration Controls – Part of Hungary’s broader immigration restrictions. ✔ Aligning with Other EU Countries – Similar to Germany’s naturalization test and France’s integration requirements.
📌 Concerns from Critics ✔ Barrier for Non-Hungarian Speakers – Critics argue that the Hungarian language requirement makes it difficult for many migrants to pass. ✔ Excludes Certain Skilled Workers – Some believe this policy may discourage highly qualified immigrants. ✔ Potential Legal Challenges – Human rights organizations suggest that this may violate EU laws on residency rights.
How Does Hungary Compare to Other EU Countries?
📍 Germany – Requires an integration course and test for permanent residency applicants. 📍 France – Applicants must demonstrate French language proficiency and knowledge of French values. 📍 Netherlands – Implements a civic integration exam, including language and cultural knowledge. 📍 Sweden – Recently proposed a language and citizenship test.
Hungary’s cultural knowledge exam follows a growing European trend of requiring greater assimilation efforts from migrants.
What’s Next for Residency Applicants?
🔹 More Immigration Reforms Expected – Hungary may introduce additional measures for foreigners seeking long-term residence. 🔹 Legal Challenges Possible – If the policy faces opposition from the EU or human rights organizations, changes may occur. 🔹 Preparation for Applicants – Those planning to apply for Hungarian permanent residency should start studying Hungarian history and culture.
Conclusion
The new cultural knowledge exam represents a major shift in Hungary’s immigration policy, reinforcing stricter requirements for permanent residency. While the government sees it as a necessary step for integration, critics argue that it could hinder immigration and create barriers for skilled workers.
Applicants must now prepare for cultural and historical assessments, making Hungary one of the more restrictive EU countries in terms of permanent residency requirements.
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Source – schengen.news
