The certificate of good conduct, or erkölcsi bizonyítvány, is Hungary’s criminal-record certificate. You may be asked for one when you start a job, apply for certain permits, or need to prove a clean record abroad. Here is how to get it.
What is the certificate of good conduct?
It is an official document from the Ministry of Interior that sets out your criminal record, or confirms that you have none. Employers, banks, and authorities use it to check that you have no relevant convictions and are not barred from certain activities. In Hungarian it is called the hatósági erkölcsi bizonyítvány.
Who can apply?
Anyone can apply, but only for their own certificate. Foreign nationals living in Hungary apply using their residence permit and personal identification details. You cannot request a certificate on someone else’s behalf without their formal authorisation.
How to get it in Hungary
- Online with an Ügyfélkapu (Client Gate) account, which is the quickest route.
- In person at the customer service of the Criminal Records Office.
- By post, using the form available at any post office, which you fill in and hand back to the clerk.
Getting it from abroad
If you are outside Hungary, you can request the certificate through a Hungarian consulate or embassy. This is useful if you have left the country but still need to prove your Hungarian record.
Processing time and validity
The certificate is usually issued within about eight days, or around five days if you apply in person, and then posted to your address. Once issued, it is valid for 90 days, so request it close to the time you actually need it rather than well in advance.
Using it abroad: the apostille
To use a Hungarian certificate in another country, you often need an apostille, an international stamp of authenticity, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Within the EU an apostille is not always required, but the receiving country or organisation sets the rule, so check what they ask for before you submit.
A certificate of good conduct is a common requirement when applying for a residence permit or a job. If you are arranging your stay, our partner immigration lawyers can tell you exactly which documents you need.
Frequently asked questions
What is the erkölcsi bizonyítvány?
It is Hungary’s certificate of good conduct, an official document from the Ministry of Interior showing your criminal record or confirming you have none. It is used by employers, banks, and authorities.
Who can apply for a certificate of good conduct?
Anyone, but only for themselves. Foreign nationals living in Hungary apply using their residence permit and personal identification details.
How do I get a certificate of good conduct in Hungary?
Online with an Ügyfélkapu account, in person at the Criminal Records Office, or by post using a form from any post office. From abroad, apply through a Hungarian consulate or embassy.
How long is the certificate valid?
It is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued, so it is best to request it close to when you actually need it.
Do I need an apostille to use it abroad?
Often yes, an apostille from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Within the EU it is not always required, but the receiving country decides, so confirm their requirement first.