The amount of the 2026 minimum wage has been published

Government Decree No. 426/2025 (XII.23.) has been published, which determines the amounts of the minimum wage and the guaranteed minimum wage for 2026.

The amount of minimum wage in 2026

As of 1 January 2026, the minimum wage for employees working full time is determined as follows:

• in the case of a monthly wage: HUF 322,800,
• in the case of a weekly wage: HUF 74,210,
• in the case of a daily wage: HUF 14,850,
• in the case of an hourly wage: HUF 1,856.

The amount of guaranteed wage minimum in 2026

For employees employed in positions requiring at least a secondary level of education or secondary vocational qualifications, a higher minimum wage, the so-called guaranteed minimum wage, must be paid as the minimum remuneration. It is important to note that in this context, the qualification required to fill the position is relevant, not
the employee’s actual level of education. 

As of 1 January 2026, the guaranteed minimum wage for employees working full time is determined as follows:

• in the case of a monthly wage: HUF 373,200,
• in the case of a weekly wage: HUF 85,800,
• in the case of a daily wage: HUF 17,160,
• in the case of an hourly wage: HUF 2,145.

What should employers pay attention to in connection with the minimum wage increase?

The Hungarian Labour Code determines that the base wage must reach at least the amount of the minimum wage or guaranteed wage minimum set out by the Government.

Accordingly, employers must review the base wages of all employees and, where necessary, amend the employment agreements of those employees whose base wage does not reach the minimum wage or guaranteed wage minimum applicable from 1 January 2026.

It is also recommended to review the employment agreements of the key employees who qualify as executive employees based on the agreement of the parties, in order to ensure that the employee’s base wage reaches seven times the minimum wage of 2026, i.e. HUF 2,259,600. Although there is no specific statutory provision or established court practice regarding the exact date when the base wage of such executive employees must reach seven times the minimum wage, in my view it is advisable to adjust this amount annually in line with increases in the minimum wage, in order to avoid potential risks and future legal disputes.