Hungary Golden Visa

Hungary Golden Visa

For those who wish to have a second home in Hungary and travel visa-free across Europe

Download the guide Calculate the cost
€250,000 Minimum investment
5+ months Obtaining period
10 years Validity period

What is a Hungary Golden Visa program?

In 2024, Hungary reinitiated its Golden Visa Program, offering investors a pathway to obtain a residence permit through three distinct options, one of which includes a real estate purchase. The program stipulates a minimum investment of €250,000.

Applicants are required to demonstrate the availability of investment funds and provide evidence of their lawful origin. Significantly, the inclusion of family members in the application does not necessitate an increase in the base investment amount.

11 benefits of the Hungary Golden Visa

Relocation to Hungary

Golden Visa holders can reside in Hungary for the entire validity period of their residence permit and enjoy unrestricted entry to the country at any time, even during periods when the borders are closed to other foreigners.

Travelling across Europe without visas

Holders of a Hungary Golden Visa enjoy visa-free access to 38 European countries, including all EU and Schengen nations. They can stay in these areas for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. 

For travelling within the Schengen Area, a Hungarian residence permit card and a passport are needed. To enter non-Schengen countries like Montenegro, residents need a residence permit card, a valid passport, hotel booking confirmation, and occasionally, a bank statement.

Long validity period

The Hungary Golden Visa offers an extended validity of up to 10 years, with an option for renewal for an additional decade. This contrasts with other EU nations, where Golden Visas typically have shorter durations, ranging from 2 to 5 years.

Real estate investment option

The Hungarian government offers a pathway to obtaining a residence permit for investors through the purchase of residential properties within the country. This option is particularly advantageous for those seeking to relocate to Hungary via the Hungary Golden Visa Program.

Prospect of obtaining permanent residence and citizenship

Holders of a residence permit can seek permanent residency after three years of living in Hungary, and citizenship eligibility arises after an additional eight years.

With a Hungarian passport, visa-free travel is possible to 171 countries, including the USA, the UK, Japan, and Singapore.

Access to high-quality, affordable healthcare

Hungarian medicine, adhering to EU standards, offers services at lower costs compared to Germany or Scandinavian countries.

Residents can access healthcare in both public and private clinics and are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card, allowing for free or reduced-cost medical treatment across the EU.

European education

Seven Hungarian universities feature in the top 1000 globally, as per QS Top Universities, including institutions in Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen. These universities provide programs in English, French, German, and Hungarian.

Adhering to the Bologna system, Hungarian higher education guarantees international recognition of its diplomas.

Affordable living standards

The average cost of living in Hungary, excluding rent, stands at €600 per person monthly. Thus, a four-person family typically requires around €2,000 per month.

Living expenses in Hungary are approximately 1.5 times lower than in countries like Germany or Sweden.

Attractive tax system

Hungary boasts a competitive income tax rate of 15%. This is notably lower compared to rates in other European countries, such as Germany’s peak rate of 47.5% and France’s maximum of 55%.

Opportunity to work in Hungary

Holders of a Hungary Golden Visa are granted the flexibility to register a company in Hungary, pursue self-employment, or engage in employment under a labour contract.

No mandatory stay in Hungary to retain status

Investors are not obligated to reside in Hungary, allowing them the freedom to enter and exit the country as they please.

Practical guide on the Hungary Golden Visa

  • Step by step procedure
  • Requirements for applicants
  • Required documents
  • Answers to frequently asked questions
Download the guide

PDF, 36 pages, 12 MB

Who can obtain a Hungarian Golden Visa

Investor
  • Over 18
  • Without criminal records
  • Capable to confirm the legality of income
Spouse or registered partner
Children under 18
Parents
  • Of an investor or a spouse
  • Financially dependent on the investor

Investment options under the Hungary Golden Visa Program

1st option

Purchase of investment fund units

€250,000+

Applicants have the option to invest in Hungarian real estate by purchasing units from local investment funds. These funds must be invested specifically in real estate, and the investment certificates issued need to be registered with the Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Hungarian National Bank).

The investments cannot be redeemed for a minimum period of five years following the purchase.

2nd option

Purchase of real estate

€500,000+

Applicants also have the opportunity to invest directly in real estate by purchasing a residential property. However, this option necessitates a higher financial commitment compared to fund investments: the property must have a minimum value of €500,000.

The sales and purchase agreement the investor signs stipulates that the property cannot be resold for a minimum period of five years.

This option will become available on January 1st, 2025. Purchasing real estate before this date will not allow you to apply for the Golden Visa.

3nd option

Charitable donation

€1,000,000+

Applicants can contribute €1,000,000 to a higher education institution that is part of the Foundation for the Management of Assets in the Public Interest. This donation is intended to support key areas such as education, scientific research, or artistic creation.

Individual cost calculation for the Hungary residence permit

Get an individual calculation for your family with all associated costs and government fees

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Documents required to get a Hungary residence permit by investment

To apply for a Hungary Golden Visa, investors must submit the following documents:

  1. Passport valid for at least 12 months.
  2. Two recent photos 3 × 4 cm, taken within the last month.
  3. Health insurance documentation.
  4. Written confirmation of intent to meet investment requirements.
  5. Proof of income legitimacy.
  6. Bank statement showing sufficient funds.
  7. Proof of residential address in Hungary.
  8. CV for each family member over 18.
  9. Marriage certificate, if applicable.
  10. Birth certificates for relevant family members.
  11. Completed residence permit application for residency.
  12. Confirmation of investment for residency purposes.

Note: This document list is subject to change and will be updated upon the Golden Visa’s official launch.

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How can Immigrant Invest help you with buying property in Hungary?

At Immigrant Invest, our team of real estate experts assists investors in selecting appropriate properties upon request. We facilitate property viewings, verify the seller’s credibility, and ensure the integrity of the transaction.

Our legal team handles the procurement of permissions for real estate purchases, aids in finalising purchase and sale agreements, secures the property owner’s passport from the land committee, and forwards it to the Hungarian Immigration Service to validate compliance with the residence permit conditions.

How to get Hungarian residency by investment

1 day
Preliminary Due Diligence
1 day

Preliminary Due Diligence

A Certified Compliance Anti-Money Laundering Officer conducts a thorough verification of the investor’s data against international databases.

This meticulous screening process reduces the risk of application refusal to as low as 1%.

2 weeks
Collecting documents
2 weeks

Collecting documents

Lawyers at Immigrant Invest tailor a document checklist specific to each investor’s circumstances for residence permit applications.

We provide assistance in completing government forms and facilitate the translation and notarization of necessary documents.

3 weeks
Obtaining a Guest Investor Visa
3 weeks

Obtaining a Guest Investor Visa

The applicant is initially granted a Guest Investor Visa, valid for up to 6 months. 

This visa authorises entry into Hungary for the purpose of applying for a residence permit through investment. Additionally, it allows for multiple entries and exits from the country, as well as the ability to reside in Hungary during its validity.

Up to 3 months
Fulfilling the investment conditions
Up to 3 months

Fulfilling the investment conditions

Investments should be completed within three months from the date of first entry into Hungary on a Guest Investor Visa.

1+ day
Applying for a Hungary Golden Visa
1+ day

Applying for a Hungary Golden Visa

The Hungarian Golden Visa application can be submitted either to the relevant immigration authority in Hungary or through an online process.

Up to 3 weeks
Receiving a residence permit card
Up to 3 weeks

Receiving a residence permit card

The investor is required to visit the migration office at a designated time, present their passport and the original documents, provide biometric data, and have a photograph taken for the residence permit card.

The card is then mailed to the investor’s specified address within 21 days.

Golden Visa and Immigrant Invest stay with you

While obtaining and maintaining a residence permit, various everyday tasks may surface, such as dealing with banks, immigration services, city hall, and land committees. Our team will handle these responsibilities, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process for you.

Real estate selection

At Immigrant Invest, we provide a trusted real estate database and assist in selecting and facilitating property transactions.

Opening a bank account

We can guide you in selecting a bank and preparing the necessary documents to open an account.

Including family members

We handle document preparation and application processes for bringing your relatives to Hungary.

Residence permit card replacement

In case of loss, we assist in applying for a replacement residence permit card through the immigration service.

Residence permit renewal

We aid in gathering documents, ensuring compliance with renewal criteria, and submitting the extension application to the immigration service.

Obtaining permanent residence

We assist in document preparation and submission of applications for permanent residence to the immigration service.

Alternative residency options in Hungary

White Card is a residence permit granted to individuals working remotely for companies outside Hungary. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • earn at least €3,000 per month for the last 6 months;
  • have at least €10,000 in savings;
  • rent real estate for a year;
  • buy health insurance.

Digital nomads receive residence permits for one year with an option to extend it once for the same period. After two years, the foreigner must leave Hungary but can apply for the White Card again.

The residence permit for digital nomads does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship, and family members cannot be included in the application.

Business residence permit. Foreigners can obtain a business residence permit by opening a company in Hungary with a minimum share capital of €7,700. The permit is valid for 1 year and can be extended once for 2 more years. This permit does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship.

Family members, including spouses, minor children, and financially dependent parents, are eligible for residence permits one year after the main applicant obtains the status.

38 countries are visa-free with a Hungary Golden Visa

  • Austria
  • Andorra
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Georgia
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Iceland
  • Italy
  • Ireland
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Liechtenstein
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • + 9 countries

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Hungary have a Golden Visa?

Effective from 2024, Hungary introduces the new Golden Visa program. This initiative establishes a new visa category known as the ‘Guest Investor Visa,’ designed for individuals participating in government-recognized ‘strategically important investments’ within Hungary.

How much is a Hungarian residence permit?

Under the Golden Visa Program, investors have the following options:

  • purchase of fund units valued at €250,000;
  • purchase of real estate in Hungary worth a minimum of €500,000;
  • donation €1,000,000 to a member higher education institution of the Foundation for the Management of Assets in the Public Interest.
Can I get residency in Hungary if I buy a house?

Yes, buying property in Hungary as a foreigner can lead to residency. Purchasing real estate valued at €500,000 qualifies for a 10-year residence permit in Hungary.

How can I get a residence permit in Hungary?

To obtain a Hungarian residence permit, investors can utilise the Golden Visa Program. Alternatively, foreigners with a monthly income of at least €3,000 and working remotely for companies outside Hungary can qualify for the White Card. Business residence permit might be obtained by people opening a company in Hungary with a minimum share capital of €7,700.

The Golden Visa offers more benefits in terms of validity period and residence conditions compared to the options for remote workers and businesspeople.

Can you get citizenship in Hungary after residence?

Residence permit holders can apply for permanent residence after three years of living in Hungary, and after another eight years, they can apply for citizenship.

A Hungarian passport enables visa-free access to 171 countries, including the USA, the UK, Japan, and Singapore.

What is the 10-year Golden Visa in Hungary?

The Golden Visa is a program that allows wealthy foreigners to obtain Hungary residence by investment for 10 years. The qualifying sum is €250,000, contributed to buying investment fund units. Other options include purchasing of real estate valued at €500,000+ and making a charitable donation of €1,000,000+.

What are the benefits of Hungary Golden Visa?

One of the main advantages is the opportunity to live in Hungary, including its capital, Budapest, with the Golden Visa and travel freely across the Schengen Area.

Other benefits include:

  • access to Hungary’s public healthcare and education systems; 
  • residency for 10 years;
  • prospect of obtaining permanent residence and citizenship;
  • tax optimisation.

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Let’s discuss the details

Schedule a meeting at one of the offices or online. A lawyer will analyze the situation, calculate the cost and help you find a solution based on your goals.

Zlata Erlach, Investment Program Expert
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