How to find an English-speaking job in Hungary as an expat

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Hungary’s vibrant economy and growing international presence make it an appealing destination for Hungarians returning from abroad, foreign students, and expats seeking English-speaking employment. While the local language is Hungarian, a significant number of jobs – especially in Budapest and larger cities – require English as the main working language. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Hungarian job market and secure an English-speaking position.

Why Hungary?

Hungary offers a dynamic job market, a high quality of life, and a rich cultural experience. Budapest, in particular, is home to many multinational companies and startups, making it the top city for English-speaking professionals. Other cities like Debrecen and Szeged also offer opportunities, especially in IT, education, and customer service.

Where to look for English-speaking jobs

Top job portals:

  • Profession.hu: The most popular Hungarian job portal with thousands of English-language listings. Use filters for “angol” (English) to narrow your search.
  • LinkedIn: Widely used by international companies and recruiters in Hungary. Many job postings are in English and target expats and bilingual professionals.
  • Jobs in Budapest: Specifically caters to English-speaking professionals and expats seeking roles in Hungary.
  • Europe language jobs: Focuses on multilingual and English-speaking jobs across Hungary.
  • EURES: The European Job Mobility Portal lists jobs for EU/EEA citizens and is useful for those seeking opportunities across Europe, including Hungary.

Other useful sites:

  • Jobline.hu, CVonline.hu, No Fluff Jobs, and specialised expat job boards such as XpatJobs and Female Factor.

Sectors with high demand for English speakers

White-collar jobs:

  • IT & software development
  • Data analysis
  • Project management
  • Finance and accounting
  • Marketing and human resources
  • Customer service & Shared Service Centres (SSCs)
  • Education (especially English teachers in international schools and language institutes)

Blue-collar and service jobs:

  • Hospitality (hotels, restaurants, tour companies)
  • Logistics (truck drivers, warehouse staff)
  • Construction and skilled trades (electricians, plumbers)

Tip: Multinational companies in IT, finance, and pharmaceuticals are major employers of English speakers. Shared Service Centres (SSCs) in Budapest often hire for customer support, administration, and technical roles with English as the working language.

Practical steps to get hired

1. Prepare your application materials

  • Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and international experience.
  • Use a clear, professional format. Most employers expect applications in English, but having a Hungarian version can be a plus.

2. Register and apply online

  • Create accounts on major job portals and set up job alerts for English-speaking positions.
  • Apply widely, but focus on jobs that match your qualifications.

3. Network

  • Attend local and online networking events through platforms like Meetup and Internations.
  • Join expat groups and professional associations to build connections.

4. Consider recruitment agencies

  • Some agencies specialise in placing foreigners and bilingual candidates in Hungary. They can help match you with suitable roles.

5. Prepare for interviews

  • Be ready for video or in-person interviews. Highlight your adaptability, language skills, and any experience working in multicultural environments.
  • Research Hungarian work culture-punctuality, direct communication, and building trust are valued.
  • EU/EEA citizens: Can work in Hungary without a visa, but must register their residence.
  • Non-EU/EEA citizens: Need a work visa and a residence permit. This usually requires a job offer and involves paperwork for the employer and employee.
  • Students: Can work part-time during studies, and many international students find English-speaking internships or entry-level jobs.

Tips for success

  • Learn basic Hungarian: While many jobs require only English, knowing some Hungarian can improve your daily life and impress employers.
  • Be flexible: Entry-level positions in customer service, hospitality, or teaching English are often more accessible for newcomers.
  • Consider location: Budapest offers the most opportunities, but other cities like Debrecen and Szeged are growing hubs for tech and education.
  • Understand salaries and costs: The average wage is lower than in Western Europe, but so is the cost of living. Minimum wage for skilled workers is around HUF 320,000/month (approx. EUR 800), with higher salaries in IT and finance.

Finding an English-speaking job in Hungary is very achievable with the right approach. Focus your search on international companies, use dedicated job portals, and don’t underestimate the value of networking. With preparation and persistence, you can build a rewarding career and enjoy all that Hungary has to offer –⁠ whether you’re a local, a returning Hungarian, a foreign student, or an expat looking for a new adventure.

Read more guides for expats in Hungary HERE.

Read also:

Sources and more information: Hungary Golden Visa, HungarianPod101, FirmaX, ThinkEurope

Featured image: depositphotos.com

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