Healthcare
Accessing Healthcare: The TAJ Card
The process of entering the state health insurance system and getting your TAJ (Social Security) number.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify with official sources before taking action.
What is this?
The TAJ card is your gateway to public healthcare. Whether you are a student on a scholarship or an employee, this guide explains how to get your card active.
How it works
- 1
Verify eligibility: You are eligible if you are employed, a student with a Hungarian state scholarship, or an EU citizen paying voluntary contributions.
- 2
For employees: Your employer usually initiates the process. You must provide them with your personal data and Address Card.
NEAK Information - 3
For students: Visit your University's International Office. They often handle the bulk application for TAJ cards for scholarship holders.
Example: Univ. of Pécs TAJ Guide - 4
Submit your application to the Government Window (Kormányablak) or the NEAK headquarters (Teve utca 1/a-c in Budapest).
Good to know
Things worth knowing
- The TAJ card number is required for many private clinics as well, even if you pay cash.
- Public healthcare is funded by a 18.5% social security contribution deducted from your salary.
- Pharmacies offer significant discounts on many medicines if you have a TAJ card and a valid local prescription.
- Your TAJ number is printed on your plastic card, but the number itself is what doctors need first.
- Health insurance is only active while your contributions are paid. If you lose your job, you have a 45-day 'grace period' before it deactivates.
- EU citizens can use an EHIC card for 'medically necessary' treatment until their TAJ card is issued.
Useful resources
Clurio is not affiliated with or endorsing any of these services.
IMT BME Healthcare Guide
Detailed FAQ on how the TAJ system works for international residents.
Official sources
NEAK (Health Fund)
The central body for health insurance in Hungary.
Always verify your specific situation with official sources. Clurio provides information only and is not a substitute for professional legal or financial advice.