Jobs in Hungary: Complete Guide for International Students

Job Opportunities for International Students in Hungary

If you’re dreaming of studying abroad in Hungary, you’re probably wondering about what comes next after graduation. Will you find a job? What industries are booming? And what’s so great about working in Hungary? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Hungary is not just a fantastic place to study with its top-notch universities and vibrant culture; it’s also a land of opportunity for international students like you. Let’s dive into the top job sectors, explore post-study work options, and highlight the fantastic benefits of building your career in this Central European gem.

Top Job Sectors in Hungary

1. Information Technology

Demand: High demand for specialists

Average Monthly Salary: 900,000 - 1,236,000 HUF

Ideal for: English speakers

2. Hospitality & Tourism

Demand: Tourism boom creates new jobs

Average Monthly Salary: 292,000 - 874,000 HUF

Ideal for: Bilingual skills

3. Engineering

Demand: Hiring for manufacturing and R&D

Average Monthly Salary: 600,000 - 2,000,000 HUF

Ideal for: Technical skills

4. Healthcare

Demand: Need for doctors and nurses

Average Monthly Salary: 500,000 - 1,500,000 HUF

Ideal for: Relevant qualifications

5. Education

Demand: Shortage of teachers and tutors

Average Monthly Salary: 300,000 - 800,000 HUF

Ideal for: English-speaking graduates

Do These Sectors Offer Jobs to International Students?

Absolutely, yes! Hungary is super welcoming to international graduates, especially in high-demand fields. If you’re a non-EU student, you can apply for a “study-to-work” residence permit, which gives you 9 months after graduation to land a job or start a business. Once you secure a job, you can switch to a work permit, making the transition smooth. EU/EEA students have it even easier. They don’t need a work visa and can enter the job market with just a registration card.

Big cities like Budapest, Debrecen, and Szeged are essential locations for international companies like TATA, GE, and Audi, which love hiring multilingual graduates.

In 2024, Hungary reported 79,000 job vacancies, with manufacturing and IT leading the pack. Strong English skills and a degree from a Hungarian university make you a strong candidate, even if you don't speak Hungarian fluently.

Benefits of Starting a Career in Hungary

Starting your career in Hungary has fantastic benefits, making it an excellent choice for international students. Here’s why you’ll love working here:

Affordable Living Costs: Monthly expenses in Budapest average €500–700, much lower than in Western Europe, so your salary stretches further.
High Work-life Balance: Hungary’s 40-hour work week and generous vacation days (20+ annually) let you enjoy life outside the office.
Cultural Richness: From Budapest’s thermal baths to Szeged’s festivals, you’ll be immersed in a vibrant culture perfect for young professionals.
Schengen Access: A Hungarian residence permit lets you travel freely across 26 Schengen countries for up to 90 days every 180 days.

Career Growth: With Hungary’s growing economy, sectors like IT and engineering offer internships and entry-level roles that boost your CV for global opportunities.

Why Study in Hungary

Job Opportunities for International Students in Hungary

Top Job Sectors in Hungary

Do These Sectors Offer Jobs to International Students?

Benefits of Starting a Career in Hungary