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The Fundamental Law of Hungary (2011)

The Fundamental Law is Hungary's constitution, adopted in 2011 and in force since 1 January 2012. It replaced the previous constitution of 1949. For citizenship purposes, the key provision is Article G.

Article G — Citizenship​

Article G establishes the constitutional framework for Hungarian citizenship:

Acquisition of citizenship. Hungarian citizenship is acquired by birth from a Hungarian citizen parent, by naturalization, or by reinstatement. The detailed conditions are set by law.

Protection of citizens abroad. Hungary protects its citizens wherever they are. This principle underpins the consular network and the ability to apply for citizenship through Hungarian embassies and consulates worldwide.

Prohibition on deprivation. Hungarian citizenship cannot be arbitrarily taken away. A citizen can lose citizenship only in cases specified by law — primarily through voluntary acquisition of another citizenship under certain conditions, or through renunciation.

Relationship to Act LV of 1993​

The Fundamental Law sets constitutional principles; Act LV of 1993 gives them operational content. When applicants and consulates work through citizenship questions, they are applying Act LV — but that law's authority rests on the constitutional framework in Article G.

Why It Matters for Applicants​

The Fundamental Law is not a document most applicants need to read directly. Its relevance is structural:

  • It is the legal basis on which Act LV was enacted
  • It establishes that citizenship by descent (through birth from a Hungarian citizen parent) is constitutionally recognized
  • It confirms that naturalization is a constitutionally valid path to citizenship

For the rules that determine eligibility, procedure, and document requirements, see Act LV of 1993.

Full Text​

Available in English on the website of the Hungarian National Assembly: mkogy.hu