Yes, IVF is legal in Hungary under strict regulatory oversight. The Hungarian government permits assisted reproductive technologies (ART) for heterosexual couples and single women, subject to medical and ethical guidelines enforced by the National Public Health Center (NNK).
Key Regulations for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Hungary
- Eligibility Restrictions: Only heterosexual couples in stable relationships or single women may access IVF. Same-sex couples and unmarried partners face legal barriers under the 2020 “Protection of Family” law, which prioritizes traditional family structures.
- Embryo Storage Limits: Cryopreserved embryos may not be stored beyond the legal maximum of five years unless extended by NNK for medical reasons, aligning with Hungary’s 2021 bioethics amendments.
- Genetic Testing Bans: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is prohibited except for severe hereditary conditions, per the 2023 amendments to the Health Act, reflecting Hungary’s conservative stance on embryo selection.
The National Public Health Center (NNK) licenses clinics and monitors compliance, with penalties for violations including fines or license revocation. Recent 2026 draft amendments propose stricter oversight of donor gametes, further tightening IVF protocols.