The census is a full-scope survey usually taken every 10 years on the whole population of a given area (country) as of a predetermined date. The census refers to a reference date; it is full-scope with a multipurpose use. The census enumeration occurs simultaneously in all parts of the country with identical content and a uniform methodological base covering each dwelling and person. 
The 15th Hungarian population census was held in October 2011, with the reference date of midnight, 1 October 2011.

The importance of the census

• Census is the only method to learn the life circumstances of the whole population in Hungary.
• Economic, health, educational, social and cultural developments can be planned and implemented with the knowledge of the exact data.
• We can apply for European Union and other grants with the help of census data from Hungary.
• The Hungarian census is part of a global programme; we provide exact data about ourselves to our neighbours, the European Union and to the whole world.
• First of all, data provider citizens facilitate with their answers the development of their close environment and, of course, contribute to give a more detailed picture on Hungary.

Scope of data collection

During the census, private individuals living in the area of Hungary as well as all dwellings, inhabited holiday homes and institutions providing communal overnight accommodation are to be enumerated. Data were provided as of 00:00, 1 October 2011.

Individuals to be enumerated:

• All Hungarian citizens living in the area of the country or staying temporarily abroad for a period of less than 12 months.
• All foreign citizens and stateless persons living in the area of the country for a period of more than 3 months.

Dwellings to be enumerated:

• All dwellings, occupied holiday homes and other occupied housing units (dwellings).
• Institutions used for communal overnight accommodation (institutes).