Its origins, however, can be traced to the Order of Merit of the Kingdom of Hungary which existed from 1922 until 1946.

In 2011 its official name changed from Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary to Hungarian Order of Merit in accordance with the new Hungarian Constitution.

It is awarded in either civilian or military divisions.

Since 2011, the Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen is the highest State honour of Hungary.

The highest grade, the Grand Cross with Chain, is exclusive to the civilian division and is only awarded to heads of state and the President of Hungary ex-officio.