Is the Hungarian cultural knowledge exam required for the National Residence Card?

Since 1 January 2025, applicants for the National (permanent) Residence Card must include a certificate showing they passed the Hungarian cultural knowledge exam. It sits alongside the financial, accommodation and health insurance conditions.

This is a recent change, so applicants who started planning earlier should make sure they account for it. Sitting and passing the exam before you submit keeps your file complete and avoids a deficiency notice that would delay the decision on your permanent residence.