Hungary’s MÁV: 13% Income Boost in 2026 Wage Deal

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – Employees at Hungarian state railway operator MÁV will receive a total income boost of up to 13% in 2026, following a revised three-year wage agreement announced on January 19. The deal, brokered between MÁV management, trade unions, and the Hungarian state, combines a multi-stage base salary increase with a significant expansion of non-salary benefits.

Operational & Technical Details

The 2026 compensation package is structured in multiple phases. The base salary increase will occur in two steps. An initial 4.7% raise will apply for January and February. From March 1, a second 4.7% increase will be added, bringing the total base salary to 9.6% above current levels for the remainder of the year.

The non-salary benefits see the largest percentage growth. The annual contribution to the SZÉP benefits card will more than triple, rising from 120,000 HUF (€312) to 400,000 HUF (€1,040). This amount will be disbursed in two equal installments of 200,000 HUF in March and July 2026. Additionally, the employer’s monthly health fund contribution will increase by 75% to 7,000 HUF (€18) net, effective January 1. The annual loyalty bonus of 350,000 HUF (€910) remains unchanged and is scheduled for payment in December.

Market Impact Analysis

This agreement is a strategic measure by the Hungarian state, MÁV’s owner, to ensure operational continuity and prevent labor disruptions. By proactively addressing inflationary pressures on employee purchasing power, the government mitigates the risk of strikes that could paralyze national transportation. The heavy reliance on enhancing non-taxable or lower-taxed benefits like the SZÉP card is a common fiscal strategy in the region to boost net employee income while managing direct payroll costs. The deal establishes a significant benchmark for upcoming wage negotiations across Hungary’s public sector, particularly within other state-owned enterprises.

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