In Hungary, couples in an economic and sexual relationship, regardless of sexual orientation, are granted medical, funeral, pension and immigration rights. The bill took effect July 1, 2009 and gives gay couples all of the rights of marriage with the exception of adoption and surname rights. Neither gay or straight couples are required to register with the state.

However, in 2007 the Hungarian parliament rejected a bill for gay marriage without debate.

But, in 2008, The Hungarian Constitutional Court ordered new legislation specifically for same-sex couples.