Hungary Process Server

Overview

Process Server in Hungary: How Service of Process Works

Hungary has objected to Article 8 and Article 10 in their entirety, so service must proceed through the Ministry of Justice, Hungary's Central Authority, typically completing in two to three months, though problematic cases can run longer. Service of documents in Hungary is free of charge for both formal and informal methods. One distinctive feature: Hungary defines an acceptable 'official translation' as one that would itself be accepted for judicial proceedings under the requesting state's own law — a reciprocal quality standard not commonly seen elsewhere.

Who serves process

Who Can Serve Legal Documents in Hungary

Hungary is a civil-law country, and documents from abroad are served through the Hungarian courts. The Central Authority is the Ministry of Justice in Budapest.

Because Hungary has objected to all Article 10 methods, service in Budapest or Great Plain & Northern Hungary has to go through the Central Authority. Formal service only happens if documents come with a certified Hungarian translation, or one that the requesting country's courts accept. Service is free of charge.

Typical documents include summonses and complaints (keresetlevél), court orders and notices.

Treaties

Hague Service Convention and Hungary

Hungary is a party to the Hague Service Convention, so documents can be sent to its Central Authority, which arranges service and returns a Certificate of Service. Hungary has made a declaration on Article 10, which limits service by post or by private agents, so we confirm which methods are open before choosing one.

Hungary is also a party to the Hague Evidence Convention, so witness testimony and documents can be requested with a Letter of Request.