The TAJ card is your key to Hungary’s public healthcare. If you live and work here, you will need one to see a doctor, fill a prescription, or use a hospital under the state system. Here is what it is and how to get one.
What is the TAJ card?
TAJ stands for társadalombiztosítási azonosító jel, your social security identification number. The card proves you are covered by Hungary’s national health insurance fund (NEAK), and you show it whenever you use public healthcare. It is separate from your residence permit and your address card, though you need those first.
Who can get one?
- Non-EU nationals can apply once they hold a valid residence permit and a registered Hungarian address.
- EU and EEA nationals apply using their registration certificate rather than a residence permit.
- Most people are covered through employment, where the employer registers them. If you are not employed, you can usually pay into the system voluntarily through an agreement with the tax authority.
How to apply
If you are employed, your employer normally registers you for a TAJ number when you start. To apply yourself, you can go to a customer service office of NEAK, your local kormányablak (government one-stop office), or apply online with an Ügyfélkapu (Client Gate) account. At a government office the card is usually issued on the spot; online applications are posted to you, typically within about two weeks. Bring your passport or ID, your residence permit, and your address card.
How long it lasts
For non-EU nationals, the TAJ card is valid for as long as your residence permit. When you renew your permit, you also renew the card, so it is worth keeping the two in step to avoid a gap in cover.
What it covers
With a valid TAJ card and contributions paid, by you, your employer, or the state, you have the same access to public healthcare as Hungarian citizens: GP visits, specialist care, hospital treatment, and subsidised prescriptions. Keep in mind that the card shows you are registered, but cover depends on the contributions actually being paid, so many newcomers also hold private insurance for their first months while everything is set up.
Sorting your TAJ card is one of the first things to do after you arrive, alongside registering your address. If you are still arranging your stay, our partner immigration lawyers can help.
Frequently asked questions
What is a TAJ card in Hungary?
It is your social security card, showing the number that registers you with Hungary’s national health insurance fund. You show it to access public healthcare such as GP visits, hospitals, and subsidised prescriptions.
Who is eligible for a TAJ card?
Non-EU nationals with a valid residence permit and a registered Hungarian address, and EU nationals with a registration certificate. Most people are covered through employment, and others can pay in voluntarily.
How do I apply for a TAJ card?
If employed, your employer usually registers you. Otherwise apply at a NEAK customer service office, your local kormányablak, or online with an Ügyfélkapu account, bringing your ID, residence permit, and address card.
How long is the TAJ card valid?
For non-EU nationals it is valid for as long as your residence permit, and you renew it whenever you extend the permit.