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Hungary Legalities

Hungary’s legal system is largely harmonised with EU requirements. If you are considering a large scale transaction you should consult one of the international law firms based in Hungary.

Standards and technical regulations

Products and packaging should meet EU standards.

As the main regulator the Hungarian Trade Licensing Office’s standards apply to foreign products coming into the country. Special rules are in force for the registration and certification of certain products.

Labelling should be in Hungarian. You should seek advice from the relevant registration or certification authority on the extent to which labelling should comply with Hungarian domestic legislation on:

• Advertising
• Health and safety

Intellectual property (IP)

Trademarks, designs, patents and copyright are the principal forms of IP protection available to companies and individuals.

IP law, especially for patent protection, is not totally harmonised within the EU.

The Hungarian Intellectual Property Office has responsibility for IP.

Tax and customs considerations

Value Added Tax (VAT)

All enterprises supplying goods or services within the territory of Hungary must register for and charge VAT. Small businesses can choose to be VAT exempt under certain conditions.

The 4 VAT rates in Hungary are:

• A standard rate of 27%
• 18% for central heating, bakery and dairy products, and providing commercial accommodation services
• 5% for some goods and services such as certain pharmaceutical products, books and daily papers
• 0% for some transactions such as radio, television, postal and financial services

Corporate tax

Find information on Hungarian tax for enterprises on the National Tax and Customs Administration of Hungary (NTCA) website.

Income tax

Individuals’ income is taxed by 15%.

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