Hungary has rolled out a new immigration policy that requires third-country nationals applying for long-term residence to pass a cultural knowledge exam, starting in 2025. This requirement applies to those seeking either a National Residence Card or an EU Residence Card and is part of a wider initiative to promote integration and ensure that future residents are familiar with the country’s civic and cultural foundations.
The test is designed to assess applicants’ understanding of Hungarian society, including its customs, institutions, and history. Administered in Hungarian, the exam aims to measure how well individuals can adapt to everyday life in the country and participate in its civic life.
There are six main topics included in the exam:
- National symbols and public holidays
- Key historical events
- Influential Hungarian and European literary and musical figures
- Fundamental state institutions
- Basic rights and responsibilities of citizens
- The role of Hungary within Europe and daily cultural practices
Each exam features 12 questions, with two from each of the core areas. Applicants are allowed up to three attempts to pass the test. If all three are unsuccessful, the individual will no longer be eligible to apply for long-term residence through this route.
This move reflects Hungary’s broader strategy to emphasize cultural assimilation as a cornerstone of its immigration framework, prioritizing both language use and civic knowledge as essential elements for permanent residency.
