New initiatives promote immigrant integration in Hungary through language, art, and peer mentoring

Launch of a peer mentoring programme for third-country nationals 

The Subjective Values Foundation launched a peer mentoring programme as part of theAMIR project. Supporting the integration of third-country nationals (TCNs) in Hungary. 

The initiative connects participants with trained mentors who provide guidance on everyday life, including healthcare, education, housing, employment and financial services. The programme seeks to strengthen self-sufficiency, social participation and community connections, while also offering learning opportunities to mentors. 

Mentoring is voluntary but structured, lasting 10 to 12 months with weekly or biweekly meetings. The programme is open to Hungarian nationals who have resided in Hungary for at least one year, have a valid residence permit and can commit to participating for the entire duration of the programme.Those interested can apply online.

Educational and integration programmes supporting immigrants in Budapest 

Several new programmes have been launched in Budapest to support the integration of immigrants, particularly displaced persons from Ukraine. 

The EU-funded RIF4UA project, coordinated by the Terre des hommes Foundation in Hungary, offers free creative activities for children, social skills workshops for young people, and training in financial literacy and digital skills to improve employability. the Jesuit Refugee Service launched a series of “Introduction to Hungary” workshops and cultural visits; and the Hungarian Helsinki Committee launcheda human rights course. For young people aged 16 to 22, open to refugees, migrants and Hungarians; and the municipality of Terézváros offersa free Hungarian language club. Sessions for local residents and permit holders to support daily communication and integration. 

Entrepreneurship programme for displaced persons from Ukraine 

A six-week entrepreneurship programme was launched to support displaced persons from Ukraine with business ideas or start-ups in the early stages. Organised by Lutheran Diakonia and Impact Hub Budapest as part ofthe SMART UA project. It provides practical training in business modelling, marketing, legal and financial basics, and project presentation. 

The free programme is open to 15 adult participants residing in Hungary who can commit to 5-7 hours per week. Sessions are held in central Budapest and are offered in Ukrainian, English or Hungarian. Participants also have access to Impact Hub Budapest’s business network to support their long-term integration and economic independence. 

Hungarian cultural knowledge exam preparation course 

The Menedék Association is launching a new migrant education initiative aimed at supporting NTPs in Hungary in preparing for the Hungarian cultural knowledge exam, a requirement for certain residence statuses and long-term integration processes. The exam assesses applicants’ understanding of key aspects of Hungarian society and culture and is an important step for many migrants seeking to strengthen their legal and social ties to the country.  

The preparation course is being implemented as part ofa project funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) and will offer guided learning, clear explanations and contextualised materials. 

Hungarian National Gallery programme for language students 

The Hungarian National Gallery offers anart education programme for young people learning Hungarian as a foreign language.Through guided museum sessions and discussions based on works of art, participants develop language skills, expand their vocabulary and gain knowledge about Hungarian history and culture. 

Operating since 2021, the programme welcomes students, particularly third-country nationals (TCNs), from universities, schools and associations, encouraging diverse and inclusive participation. By combining language learning with cultural interaction, it fosters integration, mutual understanding and trust among international students. 

More information: European Commission.