Hungary’s official election campaign kicks off today: here’s what you need to know

Hungary has entered the official campaign period for the upcoming parliamentary elections, launching the most intense 50 days of political activity before voters head to the polls in April. From signature drives and street posters to state funding and unlimited spending, parties and candidates now face a tightly regulated – yet increasingly high-stakes – race.

Based on summaries by Telex and 444.hu, here are the most important rules, deadlines and changes to keep in mind.

Candidates must collect 500 signatures

From the first day of the campaign, prospective constituency candidates can begin collecting supporting signatures.

To officially stand, each individual candidate must gather at least 500 valid recommendations from voters in their own district by early March. Signatures must be submitted on official forms issued by local election offices.

Voters must provide:

• name
• address
• personal identification number
• handwritten signature

One voter may support multiple candidates, but only within their own constituency.

Signature gathering is banned in workplaces, public transport, schools, hospitals, government buildings and private property without permission.

Party lists face stricter requirements

Parties must also meet nationwide thresholds to register a national list.

To do so, they need candidates in:

• at least 14 counties plus Budapest, and
• 71 of the 106 constituencies

National lists must be registered by early March.

Voters can check for misuse of their data

To prevent fraud, the Nemzeti Választási Iroda (National Elections Office) allows citizens to verify online whether their personal details or signature have been used without consent. This system was introduced after concerns during previous elections.

Posters and rallies return to the streets

Campaigning officially includes any activity aimed at influencing voters.

From now on, parties may:

• put up posters
• organise rallies
• contact voters directly
• run political advertisements

Posters can be displayed without special notification but must show the publisher’s details. They cannot be placed on monuments, protected buildings, nature reserves, or government offices. Private property requires the owner’s consent.

Local councils are no longer allowed to introduce extra restrictions beyond national law.

Election rallies do not need police notification, though public space permits may still be required.