Hungary Golden Visa

To obtain a Hungary residence permit, the investor provides the following documents:

• a valid international passport;

• two 3×4 cm photos taken within the last month;

• a CV;

• a marriage certificate;

• a birth certificate;

• a written confirmation of intention to fulfil the investment condition;

• health insurance or proof of sufficient funds to cover possible medical expenses;

• proof of sufficient funds for travelling and living in Hungary;

• proof of the legitimacy of the income;

• documents proving fulfilment of the investment conditions;

• proof of accommodation in Hungary: a lease or purchase and sale contract.

Hungary’s real estate market is experiencing consistent growth. Property prices are expected to rise by approximately 6% annually from 2024 to 2029. This offers the potential for significant investment returns.

Compared to other European countries, Hungary has relatively affordable real estate. For instance, buying property in Budapest is around 30% cheaper than in Lisbon, Portugal. This makes it an attractive option for investors seeking value for money.

Investors holding Hungary Golden Visas can rent out their purchased properties, capitalising on Hungary’s strong tourism industry. Hungary attracts around 46 million visitors annually, creating a robust rental market. Investors can earn steady rental income of about 5,5% per year.

Hungarian Property Example

Classic three-bedroom apartment, Ujbuda, Budapest for €642,000

Aside from the Hungary Golden Visa, there are several alternative pathways for obtaining a residence permit in Hungary. Each option is tailored to different needs and circumstances, making Hungary accessible to a wide range of individuals.

Employment-based residency. Non-EU citizens can obtain a residence permit by securing a job with a Hungarian company. The employer must demonstrate that no suitable Hungarian or EU candidate is available for the position. Once this condition is met, the applicant can apply for a residence permit that allows them to live and work in Hungary.

Study-based residency. Those accepted into a full-time university program can apply for a student residence permit, which is valid for the duration of their studies. This also allows part-time employment during the document’s validity period.

Hungarian university graduates can turn their student permits into other types of permits.

Entrepreneurship and business. Entrepreneurs can obtain a residence permit by opening a company in Hungary. This involves:

• creating a viable business plan;

• registering the business;

• demonstrating the potential for economic contribution.

The minimum authorised capital is €7,700. Successful applicants can gain residency by actively managing their business operations in Hungary.

Digital nomad visa. The Hungary White Card is a new residence permit aimed at digital nomads and remote workers. This permit allows non-EU nationals to live in Hungary while working remotely for a company abroad. Applicants must show proof of remote employment, sufficient financial means of at least €3,000 per month, and valid health insurance.

Family reunification. Individuals with family members who are Hungarian citizens or legal residents can apply for a residence permit under the family reunification category. This pathway requires proving the family relationship and demonstrating that the sponsor has adequate financial means to support the applicant.

The Hungary Golden Visa can lead to both permanent residency and citizenship.

Permanent residency. You can apply for permanent residency after 3 years of continuous residence in Hungary. During this time, you cannot leave Hungary for more than 4 consecutive months and can spend no more than 9 months in total outside the country. The application process includes an interview and thorough background checks.

Citizenship. To qualify, you must hold permanent residency for eight years. To maintain permanent status, you must spend more than 180 days a year in Hungary and cannot leave for more than 6 consecutive months. The application process requires proving integration into Hungarian society, demonstrating proficiency in the Hungarian language, and passing the Hungarian culture and laws exam.

Permanent residency and citizenship grant you the right to live and work in Hungary indefinitely without the need for renewal. As a Hungarian national, you gain the ability to live and work in all EU states and travel freely to 171 countries worldwide.