As of January 1, 2026, one of the most significant reforms in the country’s social system will come into force in Hungary: the mandatory retirement age will be raised to 65. This means that reaching that age will no longer be an automatic retirement age.
Instead, workers will be able to decide for themselves when to retire from the labor market, taking into account their health, financial capabilities and accumulated work experience, local media write.
Who the change affects
Those born in 1961 will be the first to benefit, who will have the right to seek a full old-age pension under the new rules. For those born in 1960, the current regime remains in force, with reaching the age of 65 being a mandatory condition.
Due to the flexibility of the system, the length of service requirement remains unchanged. A full pension is only granted after a minimum of 20 years of service. A partial pension can be applied for after 15 years of work, but upon reaching the age of 65.
For women, the “Women 40” program is reserved – the right to a pension after 40 years of service, including time spent raising children. Experts warn that from 2026, conditions may become stricter, especially regarding proof of a minimum period of secured employment and the accuracy of documentation.
Additional changes
From June 2026, the rules for widows’ pensions will change: spouses living separately will also be entitled to this benefit, not just those in a common household. In addition, it will be possible to receive an old-age pension without terminating the employment or insurance contract. This is especially important for healthcare workers, who will be able to continue their work without losing their pensions – and we are not the only ones who have them.
From 2026, pensions will be calculated according to new rules, which will lead to the first increase and payment of the 13th pension only in 2027.
Reasons for the reform
According to the Hungarian Statistically, people born after 1957 reach retirement age in better health and can stay active longer. The spread of teleworking and flexible forms of employment allows people to continue working after the age of 65 without being obliged to work full-time.
For workers, the reform brings advantages: longer work experience means a higher pension base, and an active lifestyle can be maintained for longer.
However, for employers, it poses a challenge to ensure sufficiently flexible positions. Moreover, not everyone will be able to benefit equally from the new opportunities – differences in health status and income will play an important role.
Illustrative Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-standing-beside-woman-on-swing-34761/
