Hungary : Applying for jobs

How do I apply for a job?

If you are working for a company with operations in Hungary, a transfer might be the easiest route in. Another approach is to seek out international companies operating in Hungary and visit their websites to find specific jobs, training or internship opportunities. Sending speculative applications to a local office may be successful.

Networking is an important way of finding work in Hungary so it may be worth undertaking an internship or period of study in Hungary first in order to build up a list of personal contacts.

CVs or employer application forms are usual when applying for jobs. Most international companies will use more or less the same recruitment procedures as they do for posts in the UK and other countries. When following up a personal recommendation, less formal approaches, such as an email or telephone call, may be appropriate.

Find out more about CVs and covering letters.

What kind of CV do I need?

The CV format tends to be similar to a UK CV and is a maximum of two pages long. Hungarian employers look for a well-structured and focused CV that emphasises your education and professional/work experience. Include details of language and IT skills.

See the 'Living and Working in Hungary' publication on the Hungarian Public Employment Service  website for more information on how to apply for jobs.

What will the interview process be like?

There are usually two interviews, although this varies depending on the type and level of job you are applying for. Interviews for UK graduates seeking managerial positions are often conducted in English, although part of the interview may be held in Hungarian.

Both international and Hungarian companies use psychometric tests and assessment centres as part of the selection process.

Will my UK qualifications be recognised?

Many employers will look for directly relevant degree subjects or internationally recognised professional qualifications. Information about how your qualifications translate to the Hungarian system may be found on the Hungarian Equivalence and Information Centre (HEIC)  and ENIC-NARIC  websites.

The UK National Europass Centre (UK NEC)  website also provides information on how to make your skills and qualifications understood in other European countries, including Hungary.

Do I still need to pay UK tax and National Insurance?

If you are planning to live and work in Hungary, check your UK tax and National Insurance position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to ensure that you are not losing any UK pension rights.