In a significant shift to its immigration policy, Hungary has officially introduced a mandatory Hungarian cultural knowledge exam for all third-country nationals (TCNs) seeking long-term residence status, effective in 2025.
The new regulation requires applicants for a National Residence Card or EU Residence Card to pass a comprehensive written test that evaluates their understanding of Hungary’s social norms, values, and historical context. This measure is part of broader immigration reforms introduced, aimed at strengthening cultural integration and ensuring that permanent residents possess a foundational grasp of Hungarian civic life.
What’s on this Hungarian PR Test?
The exam covers six (06) core topics essential to understanding Hungarian society:
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- Hungary’s national symbols and holidays
- Significant events in Hungarian history
- Prominent figures in European and Hungarian literature and music
- Fundamental institutions
- Basic citizen rights and obligations
- Europe and Hungary in everyday life.
The test consists of 12 questions—two from each topic—and must be completed in Hungarian. Applicants are permitted three (03) attempts to pass; failing all three will permanently disqualify the individual from obtaining residence under this pathway.
Registration and Cost
To register, applicants must:
- Submit a completed official application form (https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/news/hungary-cultural-knowledge-requirement-introduced-permanent-residence-2025-02-17_en)
- Provide copies of valid travel documents
- Pay a non-refundable exam fee of 20,000 HUF (approximately 50 EUR).