Residence Permit
February 11, 2025
Reading Time: 14 min

5 ways to obtain permanent residency in Hungary and move to the EU

Foreigners obtain permanent residency in Hungary after 3 years of living there with a temporary residence permit. There are various ways to get permanent residency; the most common are investment, establishing a business, employment, and family reunification.

Hungarian permanent residents can travel visa‑free across the Schengen Area, access European social benefits, and run business within the EU.

Hungary PR: how to obtain
5 ways to obtain permanent residency in Hungary and move to the EU

5 benefits of permanent residency in Hungary

1. Life, work, and business in Hungary. Permanent residency grants the right to live in Hungary indefinitely, with no need for renewal. Residents can work for Hungarian companies or run businesses without additional permits or restrictions. 

2. Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. Permanent residents of Hungary can enter the other 28 Schengen Area states without visas and stay there for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

3. Capital transfer and accounts in European banks. Permanent residents use banking services in the EU to the same extent as Hungarian citizens. They can open accounts under a simplified procedure, make transactions in various currencies, and access loans.

4. Pathway to Hungarian citizenship. After eight years of living in Hungary with permanent residency, foreigners can apply for citizenship. In some cases, the required residency period is reduced to five or three years.

As the first step, foreigners acquire a residence permit, which can be obtained on various grounds, for example, by investing at least €250,000 in the economy of Hungary.

5. Affordable cost of living. Hungary offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to other EU countries. Monthly living expenses for a single person in Budapest are about €680, rent excluded, while a family of four spends around €2,400​​. For comparison, the same expenses in Berlin are €1,000 and €3,300, respectively.

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central Budapest ranges from €500 to €880, with utilities costing €150—250 per month.

Main conditions of Hungary permanent residency 

The first step towards permanent residency is obtaining a temporary residence permit. Temporary permits are granted for 1—5 years. Investors participating in the Hungary Golden Visa program, however, gain residency for 10 years.

There are over 20 types of residence permits in Hungary; each with specific conditions. Not all permit types lead to permanent residency. For example, permits for students, digital nomads, or unskilled and seasonal workers limit the length of uninterrupted stay and do not allow applying for permanent residency. In contrast, investors and highly-skilled workers can claim permanent resident status.

The following categories of foreigners can apply for permanent residency:

  • investors, who contributed at least €250,000 to the Hungarian economy and obtained a Hungary Golden Visa;
  • entrepreneurs conducting business in Hungary;
  • highly-skilled employees of Hungarian companies;
  • family members of citizens or permanent residents of Hungary, or EU permanent residents;
  • refugees, who are entitled for permanent residency without a residence visa or residence permit.

Two types of permanent residency are available to foreigners in Hungary:

  1. National permanent residency can be claimed after 3 years of living in Hungary. During this period, applicants may not leave the country for more than 4 consecutive months or for a total of 270 days. The applicant must also demonstrate that their staying in the country is of national interest to Hungary. 
  2. EU permanent residency is granted after 5 years of living in Hungary and does not require proving a public benefit to Hungary. The following sections of the article highlight the requirements for obtaining national permanent residency in Hungary. Information on becoming an EU permanent resident is provided in the EU residence card section

Other criteria to meet when applying for residency in Hungary include not posing a threat to national security and public order, complying with anti-money laundering laws, and benefiting the country in science, culture, sports, or the economy, for example, by buying real estate, paying taxes, or running a business.

Some applicants can qualify for permanent residency sooner than after 3 years of residency:

  • dependent parents of Hungarian citizens or foreigners with Hungarian permanent residency — after 1 year;
  • spouses of Hungarian citizens or foreigners with permanent residency — after 2 years of marriage;
  • children under 18 — as soon as their parents receive permanent residency.
how to get permanent residency in Hungary

Reasons for residency application rejection. Hungarian authorities may reject a permanent residency application. The reason for the refusal is usually not disclosed, but in most cases, the rejection stems from an administrative offence, such as a criminal record, deprivation of a driver's licence, or a ban on entry into a Schengen Area country.

An applicant has the right to appeal the decision within 15 days. To do so, they must provide additional documents proving their right to permanent residency. If the appeal lacks sufficient evidence, it will be rejected.

Rights of permanent residents. Permanent residents in Hungary enjoy almost the same rights as Hungarian citizens. They can access medical treatment, social services, and education in Hungary, and open accounts in local banks. 

The main difference with a citizen is that a foreigner with permanent residency in Hungary cannot vote in elections or run for elected office. Permanent residents and citizens also do not have the same freedom of travel: while permanent residents travel visa-free within the Schengen Area, their travel to non-Schengen countries depends on the rights granted by their passport.

Validity period. Permanent residency in Hungary is granted for life and does not require renewal. However, residents must replace their Hungary permanent residence card every five years. There is no need to confirm income or grounds to reside in Hungary when replacing the card. Applications for permanent residency card issuance or renewal are submitted online via the Enter Hungary platform. They are typically processed within 70 days.

Hungarian real estate residency program
Hungary issues EU-standardised residency cards containing information on the type of residence, such as a temporary residence permit, immigration permit, permanent residence permit, or EC permanent residence permit. Source: The Official website of the Council of the EU and the European Council

Maintaining residency. To maintain permanent residency status, a resident must not leave Hungary for more than 6 consecutive months.

If the resident plans to leave Hungary for 6 months to 2 years, they must notify the Migration office and obtain permission. The permission is granted to those who have spent more than 180 days a year in Hungary before filing the notice.

Residing in another EU country. Hungarian national permanent residency does not grant the right to live in another EU country. However, after 5 years of living in Hungary, a foreigner can obtain EU permanent resident status, which allows them to live in any EU country without restrictions.

Permanent residency in Hungary for investors

Direct investment for immediate permanent residency in Hungary is unavailable. However, foreign investors can obtain a Hungarian residence permit which can lead to permanent residency after 3 years. This is available under the Hungary Golden Visa program requiring a minimum investment of €250,000.

Eligibility. An applicant should be over 18, have no criminal record, and not be under EU sanctions. They must also confirm the legality of their income and undergo a Due Diligence check for compliance with the requirements of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Investors can also include their spouse, minor children, and parents in the application.

Investment options. Under the Hungary Golden Visa program, investors can choose from three options, with two of them allowing for a refund of the investment after 5 years of residency. The available investment options include:

  1. Purchase of real estate fund units — €250,000+. The fund must be registered with the Hungarian National Bank, and at least 40% of its assets must be invested in Hungarian residential real estate. After 5 years, fund units can be redeemed.
  2. Real estate purchase — €500,000+. The acquired property must be residential, with no specific requirements on its size or condition. The investor must hold the property for 5 years, after which it can be sold.
  3. Charitable donation — €1,000,000. The donation is non‑refundable and goes to an institution of higher learning in Hungary, supporting education, scientific research, and artistry.

Real estate fund units purchase and non-refundable donation options are available from the launch of the Hungary Golden Visa program on July 1st, 2024. Investors opting for residency by real estate purchase can apply not earlier than January 1st, 2025.

Investment property in Hungary

Validity period. The Hungary Golden Visa is valid for 10 years and can be extended for another 10 years. After three years of residency, investors may apply for permanent residency.

Extending the permit. To extend the Hungary Golden Visa, investors must prove that their investment continues to meet the original requirements:

  • fund unit holders must make a new investment of €250,000 and provide a certificate confirming this;
  • real estate owners must continue to hold property valued at €500,000; if the property is sold or its value falls below €500,000, a new qualifying property must be purchased.

Permits granted for charitable donations are extended automatically upon the investor’s request.

Rights and duties. Golden Visa holders can work in Hungary or establish a company there. They also enjoy visa‑free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180‑day period.

Investors are not obliged to relocate to Hungary to maintain their residency status; the only condition is keeping the investment for 5 years.

Obtaining permanent residency. Golden Visa holders become eligible for permanent residency after three consecutive years of living in Hungary. When applying, they must demonstrate that their permanent residency serves Hungary's national interest. Alternatively, after five years, they can apply for EU permanent resident status, which does not require proving national interest.

Permanent residency in Hungary for entrepreneurs

Hungary grants residence permits to foreigners who set up businesses in the country. However, not all business-related permits lead to permanent residency. For instance, a residence permit for guest self‑employment, which permits opening a company, allows only a 3‑year stay.

One pathway to permanent residency for entrepreneurs is through the National Card, or a Nemzeti Kártya.

Eligibility. The National Card is available to nationals of eight countries:

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina;
  • North Macedonia;
  • Belarus;
  • Moldova;
  • Montenegro;
  • Russian Federation;
  • Serbia;
  • Ukraine.

The main applicant’s spouse, minor children, and dependent parents are also eligible for residency.

Requirements. To qualify for residency, an applicant must establish a company in Hungary and become employed there, earning a salary of at least €1,500 per month. The company must have a minimum authorised capital of €7,700. Additionally, applicants must purchase health insurance and rent or buy property in Hungary to confirm their registered address.

Validity period. The initial residence card is granted for 2 years and can be extended for an additional 3 years. To qualify for an extension, the applicant must spend at least 183 days per year in Hungary. They also confirm that their company remains operational and that they continue earning €1,500 or more per month.

Obtaining permanent residency. After 3 years of residency in Hungary, holders of a National Card can apply for permanent residency. Citizenship can be applied for after an additional eight years of residing in Hungary.

Permanent residency in Hungary for employees

Foreigners with a job offer from a Hungarian company obtain a residence permit. There are 8 types of employment-based permits, which are classified into two categories: permits for unskilled jobs and permits for high-skilled jobs.

Unskilled job permit holders, such as seasonal workers or guest workers, are not eligible for permanent residency in Hungary and usually cannot bring their families. High-skilled job permit holders can bring their families to Hungary and apply for permanent residency after three years of employment.

Eligibility. The following employment residence permits qualify for permanent residency:

  • a National Card, granted to citizen of 8 countries — Bosnia‑Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Belarus, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine — who have a job offer from a Hungarian company, irrespective of their qualifications, and will have a salary of at least €1,500 per month;
  • a Hungarian Card, granted to foreigners employed by Hungarian companies who hold higher vocational qualifications in information technology, engineering, natural sciences, music, music teaching, or folk music and folk culture teaching, or work as professional sportsmen, coaches, performers, or employees of film production companies registered in Hungary;
  • EU Blue Card, granted to foreigners with high professional qualifications or the specified relevant professional experience and a monthly salary of at least 1.5 times the average national gross monthly salary in Hungary from two years prior.

Rights and duties. Once an employment residence permit is obtained, the foreigner has 3 months to enter Hungary and begin their authorised stay. Failure to do so results in the permit becoming invalid.

Validity period. High-skilled job permits are generally granted for a period of 2 to 4 years and can be extended as long as the employment contract remains valid.

Obtaining permanent residency. After 3 years of continuous living in Hungary, holders of a National Card, a Hungarian Card, or an EU Blue Card become entitled for a Hungarian permanent residence permit and can obtain one if they prove that their presence in the country is in line with national interests of Hungary.

Permanent residency in Hungary for family members of Hungarian citizens and permanent residents

Hungarian citizens’ or residents’ family members wishing to relocate to Hungary can obtain a temporary residence permit for the purpose of family reunification.

Validity period. The residence permit for family reunification is issued for up to three years and can be extended as long as the primary applicant’s permit remains valid.

Eligibility. A residence permit for family reunification is granted to the following categories of applicants:

  • family members, including dependent parents, of Hungarian temporary or permanent residents, as well as EU permanent residents;
  • family members of Hungarian citizens;
  • family members, including dependent parents, of a person with refugee status; if the refugee’s spouse is obtaining residency, the marriage must be contracted prior moving to Hungary;
  • disabled siblings and ascendant family members of Hungarian temporary or permanent residents or their spouses, or those of persons with a refugee status;
  • children born in Hungary to a foreigner residing in Hungary with a residence permit.

Rights and duties. A residence permit granted for family reunification does not automatically allow the holder to work or run a business in Hungary. To engage in employment or business activities, they must additionally apply for an employment-based residence permit.

Obtaining permanent residency. A resident with a Hungary residence permit obtained through family reunification can benefit from shorter time to Hungary permanent residency, depending on their relationship with the resident and the resident's legal status in Hungary:

  • spouses, children, and parents of foreigners with a Hungarian temporary residence permit can apply for permanent residency after 3 years of living in Hungary;
  • spouses of Hungarian citizens and permanent residents can apply for permanent status after 2 years of marriage; 
  • dependent parents of foreigners with permanent residency in Hungary can apply after 1 year;
  • minor children obtain permanent residency as soon as their parent is granted a permanent residence permit.

Comparison of Hungary residence permits leading to permanent residency

Pathways to residency in Hungary that may be converted to permanent residency include obtaining a residence permit by investment through the Hungary Golden Visa, establishing a business, gaining employment with a Hungarian company, or reuniting with a family member who holds a Hungarian permit or passport.

Applying for permanent residency is typically allowed after 3 years of living in Hungary with a residence permit. An exception applies to residency obtained through family reunification: in certain cases, holders of this permit type may apply after 1 or 2 years.

PR-eligible residence permit types in Hungary compared

Permit typeRequirementsValidity Right to work in HungaryResiding in Hungary for PR
Hungary Golden VisaInvest at least €250,00010 yearsYes3 years
National CardOpen a company with an authorised capital of €7,700+ or get employed in Hungary; only nationals of 8 countries qualify2 years, extendable for 3 yearsYes3 years
Hungarian CardBe a highly-skilled professional in certain areas and have a job offer from a Hungarian companyUp to 3 yearsYes3 years
EU Blue CardHave relevant qualifications or experience and earn at least 1.5 more than the average national gross monthly salary in Hungary from two years priorUp to 4 yearsYes3 years
Residence permit for family reunificationProve close kinship to a Hungarian citizen or residentUp to 3 yearsNo, but it can be converted into an employment-based residence permit1—3 years

Documents for Hungary permanent residence

The list of documents for an application for Hungary permanent residency includes:

  1. A valid passport.
  2. A birth certificate.
  3. Marriage and divorce certificates, if applicable.
  4. A certificate of a clean criminal record for applicants over 14.
  5. Proof of means of subsistence. The suitable documents are a bank statement, income statement, or tax report.
  6. Medical insurance for the EU territory with coverage of €30,000 per year.
  7. Proof of residence in Hungary. This can be a certificate of ownership, a preliminary real estate purchase agreement, a lease agreement, or a notarised consent from a relative or friend to provide housing free of charge.
  8. A colour passport photo sized 3×4 cm.
  9. For underage children: notarised consent from both parents or legal representatives to obtain permanent residency.

Including a CV and cover letter in the application is recommended. The cover letter should explain the benefits the applicant brings to Hungary in areas like the economy, culture, science, or sports. Additional documents, such as educational diplomas, awards, and recommendation letters can also be attached. It is not compulsory but may increase the chances for approval.

Documents for permanent residency in Hungary must be apostilled and translated into Hungarian. A document can be apostilled only in the country where it was issued. Documents for permanent residence are translated at the Hungarian office for translation and attestation.

How to obtain Hungary permanent residency

According to Immigrant Invest, acquiring a Hungarian permanent residence permit typically takes 3.5 years or more. The below process highlights steps undertaken by investors seeking permanent residency in Hungary.

PT4Y
1 day
Preliminary Due Diligence
Preliminary Due Diligence

Immigrant Invest conducts a preliminary check using international databases to identify any potential obstacles which may affect chances for approval. The procedure minimises the risks of refusal to 1%. 

Preliminary Due Diligence is confidential and only requires a copy of the main applicant’s passport.

Up to 4 weeks
Obtaining a Guest Investor Visa
Obtaining a Guest Investor Visa

Immigrant Invest lawyers provide a list of necessary documents, fill out application and government forms, and handle translations and notarisation. Translation and notarisation costs depend on the number of applicants, equaling around €1,000.

The application is submitted to the Hungary Consulate.The Guest Investor Visa allows the applicant to enter Hungary to fulfil the investment requirements and is valid for 6 months.

Up to 93 days
Travelling to Hungary and fulfilling the investment condition
Travelling to Hungary and fulfilling the investment condition

Upon arriving in Hungary, the investor has 93 calendar days to implement the chosen investment condition and apply for a residence permit.

Immigrant Invest lawyers assist the investor in applying for a residence permit in Hungary. The application is processed within a few days. Upon approval, the investor schedules an appointment with the migration service.

Up to 3 weeks
Submitting biometrics and getting a residence card
Submitting biometrics and getting a residence card

The applicant attends an appointment with the migration service, bringing their passport, printed appointment confirmation, and original documents. At the office, an applicant submits fingerprints and has their photo taken for a residence permit card.

The officials send the card to the investor’s residential address in Hungary within 21 days.

After 3 years
Applying for permanent residency
Applying for permanent residency

After 3 years of living in Hungary, the investor is eligible to apply for permanent residency. The applicant submits the required documents to the regional office of the Hungarian Immigration Service. 

According to the law, the application for permanent residency must be processed within 70 working days, or around 3.5 months, though the period may be extended to up to six months.

Permanent residency in Hungary with an EU residence card

Foreigners applying for Hungarian permanent residency typically need to prove that their presence is of national interest. However, an alternative pathway allows for obtaining permanent status without this requirement: securing an EU residence card.

Eligibility. To qualify for an EU permanent residence card, foreigners must meet one of the following criteria:

  • legally reside in Hungary for at least 5 years with a valid residence permit; or
  • hold an EU Blue Card and legally reside in Hungary for at least two continuous years before applying and reside in any EU member state for at least five years with an EU Blue Card or a residence permit for research purposes.

The applicant also must have accommodation in Hungary, hold comprehensive healthcare insurance or have sufficient financial resources for healthcare services, not pose a threat to public or national security, and have a clean criminal record.

Validity. An EU residence card allows the holder to stay in Hungary for an unlimited period. The card is valid for 10 years and can be extended for another 10 years. To maintain the status, the card holder cannot spend more than 12 consecutive months outside the EU or more than 6 years outside Hungary.

how to get hungarian permanent residency
When changing their place of residence within the EU, Blue Card holders must report this to authorities of the region of their new place of residence

Main aspects to consider when moving to Hungary

Relocating in Hungary offers a range of benefits that can help a foreigner expand their opportunities and establish a high-quality life in the heart of Europe:

  1. Favourable tax regime. Hungary offers one of the lowest tax rates in Europe. Personal income is taxed at 15%, and businesses pay just 9% in corporate tax, the lowest in the EU.
  2. Access to affordable EU-level medicine. Medical services in Hungary are 40—70% cheaper than in the UK and Scandinavia. The country is also a popular destination for dental services and medical tourism. Numerous thermal baths and resorts provide opportunities for relaxation and health recovery.
  3. European education for children. Over 10 Hungarian universities are included in the world’s 1,500 best universities, as per QS World University Rankings 2025. Hungarian diplomas are recognised across the EU, as well as in the US, and the UK.
  4. Developed infrastructure. Hungary has a highly developed transport system. It is the 5th in the EU for the density of railways. There are also three international airports allowing travel to almost any corner of the world.
  5. Life in the heart of Europe. Hungary's central location places it at the crossroads of major European transport routes. Residents can reach key European cities within hours by car, plane, or train, making it an ideal hub for travel and business in Europe.

Cost of living in Hungary is quite affordable. According to Eurostat, the price level index in Hungary is 24% lower than the EU average. Energy prices, including electricity, gas, and other fuels, are the lowest in the EU. Below are some average costs for basic foods and everyday expenses:

  • a litre of milk — €1;
  • a loaf of bread — €1.3;
  • a dozen eggs — €2.5;
  • a kilo of chicken fillets — €5;
  • a kilo of apples — €1.4;
  • a kilo of potatoes — €1.2;
  • a meal in an inexpensive restaurant — €10;
  • a monthly pass for local transport — €22.5;
  • a litre of petrol — €1.54;
  • basic utilities — €132;
  • mobile monthly plan — €23.5.

The real estate market in Hungary is dynamic and developing. Since 2015, property prices have increased by 2.5—3 times. Despite this growth, Hungarian property prices remain some of the lowest in the EU. For example, rental costs are nearly 65% lower than in the Netherlands.

Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre would cost around €470. An apartment outside the city centre is valued at €360 on average. In Budapest, prices are higher: a similar apartment would cost around €615 in the city centre and €460 outside of the centre.

The average purchasing price of real estate in Hungary ranges between €2,000 and €2,800 per square metre, depending on the location. Real estate in Budapest costs from €2,380 to €3,670 per square metre.

Drawbacks of Hungary permanent residency 

Restricted mobility. Permanent residents can live in Hungary indefinitely but face limitations when it comes to travelling and working in other countries. They cannot work in other EU countries and can only stay in Schengen Area states for up to 90 days without needing additional permits or visas.

Language barrier. Only 20% of the Hungarian population can speak English, which can make daily life challenging for non-Hungarian speakers. Additionally, Hungarian is known as a difficult language to learn, which can further complicate integration.

Long path to citizenship. Foreigners must live in Hungary for 11 years before applying for citizenship. Most applicants are also required to pass an exam testing their knowledge of the Hungarian language, culture, and Constitution.

Further path to Hungary citizenship

Foreigners obtain Hungarian citizenship by naturalisation after 8 years of living in the country with a permanent residence permit. However, certain categories of applicants may qualify for reduced residency periods:

  1. Foreigners born in Hungary or who received a residence permit before age 18 are eligible for Hungarian citizenship after 5 years of residency.
  2. Spouses of Hungarian citizens can apply for citizenship after 2 years of marriage and 3 more years of uninterrupted residency in Hungary. If residing outside Hungary, they must be married for at least 10 years, or 5 years, if they have a child together.
  3. Direct family members of Hungarian citizens can apply for citizenship after 3 years of uninterrupted residency in Hungary.
  4. Foreigners of Hungarian origin can obtain citizenship through origin or repatriation. If they demonstrate proficiency in Hungarian, they may qualify for simplified naturalisation. This route does not require living in Hungary, proving means of subsistence, or maintaining a permanent address in Hungary.

To be eligible for citizenship, a foreigner must have a clean criminal record and pass a citizenship test which assesses knowledge of Hungarian history, culture, and the Constitution. The test is conducted in Hungarian and includes both written and oral components to evaluate language proficiency. Spouses of Hungarian citizens are exempt from the test. 

Hungarian laws allow one to have dual citizenship. This means a foreigner does not need to renounce their first citizenship to get Hungarian nationality unless it is forbidden in their country.

Citizens of Hungary can live, work, study, or run a business in any of the 29 EU countries, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

Key thoughts about Hungary permanent residency

  1. A foreigner typically obtains permanent residency in Hungary after 3 years of living there with a qualifying resident permit. Applicants must provide a valid basis for permanent residency and demonstrate that their residency is of national interest to Hungary.
  2. The most common ways to obtain residency in Hungary are investment, establishing a business, getting employed in a Hungarian company, and reuniting with a family member who is a Hungarian citizen or resident.
  3. Investors receive a residence permit in Hungary by contributing at least €250,000 to the country's economy.
  4. Permanent residency in Hungary is granted for life. However, residents must notify the Hungarian Migration Service about leaving the country for more than 6 months. Otherwise, the status may be cancelled.
  5. Permanent residents of Hungary can enter other countries of the Schengen Area visa‑free for 90 days in any 180‑day period.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to become a permanent resident in Hungary?

The main Hungary permanent residence requirements include obtaining a qualifying residence permit and living in the country for three years with such a permit. Qualifying permits include permits for high-skilled employment, such as a Hungarian Card and a EU Blue Card, a residence permit for family reunification, and a residence permit by investment, known as the Hungary Golden Visa.

How long do I need to live in Hungary to obtain permanent residency?

A foreigner must live in Hungary for 3 years to qualify for permanent residency. During this period, the applicant cannot stay outside Hungary for more than 4 consecutive months or more than 270 days in total over the three years.

What are the benefits of Hungarian permanent residency?

Hungarian permanent residency offers various benefits to its owner:

  • life, work, and business in Hungary;
  • visa-free travel in the Schengen Area;
  • capital transfer and accounts in European banks;
  • the opportunity to become a Hungarian citizen;
  • affordable cost of living.

Can I live in Hungary without knowledge of the Hungarian language?

Yes, you can live in Hungary without knowing Hungarian. There is no language proficiency requirement for obtaining a residence permit or permanent residency. However, for everyday communication, relying solely on English might be challenging, as only 20% of the Hungarian population speaks English.

How many years do I have to live in Hungary to obtain citizenship?

In most cases, to obtain citizenship by naturalisation, a foreigner must live in the country for 8 years as a permanent resident and, before this, for 3 years with a residence permit. It means, in total, one must live in Hungary for 11 years to get a Hungarian passport.

Can third-country nationals travel to the Schengen Area with Hungarian residency?

Can I get residency in Hungary if I buy a house?

Yes, you can become a Hungarian resident if you buy a house. This pathway is available since January 1st, 2025 as a part of the Hungary Golden Visa program. To qualify, real estate investors must buy residential property valued at least €500,000. 

The applicant gets a residence permit for 10 years. After 3 years of living in Hungary, they can obtain permanent residency.

Does Hungary offer residence by investment?

Yes, Hungary offers a residence permit by investment. It is granted for 10 years; the minimum investment is €250,000. After living in Hungary for 3 years, the investor can apply for permanent residency.

Can you enter the UK with a Hungarian residence permit?

No, you cannot enter the UK with a Hungarian residence permit without a visa, as the UK is not part of the Schengen Area.

However, citizens of Hungary can come to the UK visa-free and stay there for up to 90 days.

Can I work in the EU with a Hungarian residence permit?

No, a Hungarian residence permit only allows you to work in Hungary, provided your permit entitles you to work there. For example, a permit obtained by family reunification or as a digital nomad does now grant the right to work in Hungary. On the other hand, a permit for the purpose of employment grants such a right.

Is it easy to get PR in Hungary?

Obtaining a PR in Hungary is a straightforward process provided that the applicant holds a qualifying residence permit and fulfils all the residency requirements.

Eligible permits include those for high-skilled employment, investment, or family reunification.

Holders of the abovementioned permits typically become entitled for permanent residency after three years of uninterrupted residency in Hungary. During this period, they cannot leave Hungary for more than 4 months in a row or more than 270 days in total.

How long do you have to live in Hungary to become a citizen?

Under the general rule, foreigners can apply for Hungarian citizenship after 11 years of living in the country. The process begins with obtaining a residence permit which allows staying in Hungary for more than 3 years in a row. After 3 years, foreigners apply for permanent residency. An application for citizenship can be submitted after a further 8 years of living in Hungary.

Some applicants may qualify for reduced naturalisation times and apply for a simplified naturalisation.

Can you live in Hungary without a visa or a residence permit?

No, foreigners staying unlawfully in Hungary face deportation and a ban from re-entry for several years. Grounds for deportation include:

  • entering Hungary without a visa;
  • staying in Hungary for more than 90 days without a residence permit, despite holding a Schengen visa;
  • conducting business without the proper residence permit.

Deported foreigners can appeal the entry ban during the first half of its duration. For example, a one-year entry ban can be appealed within the first six months.

Violating visa rules, overstaying, or entering Hungary unlawfully disqualifies a foreigner from obtaining residency, permanent residency, or citizenship in Hungary and other EU countries.