Hungary Golden Visa (Guest Investor Residence Permit)

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 19 November, 2025

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Hungary Rating from Citizen Remote

Overall 4.4

Internet Infrastructure 4.0

Country Stability 5.0

Cost of Living 5.0

Ease of Obtaining Visa 4.0

Taxes 4.0

Quick Visa Facts

Visa length Up to 10 years

Possible to extend? Yes, can be renewed for an additional 10 years if the investment is maintained

Who can apply? Non-EU/EEA nationals who make a qualifying investment in Hungary and meet all program requirements

Minimum Income Requirements Must demonstrate at least €250,000 for investment purposes, plus sufficient funds to cover living and travel expenses

Time for visa applications Typically 2–3 months

Want to know if you can apply?

Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!

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The Hungary Golden Visa has quickly become one of Europe’s most talked-about residency programs, and for good reason. With its strategic location in the heart of the EU, affordable living costs, rich cultural heritage, and straightforward investment pathway, Hungary offers an attractive option for individuals and families looking to secure long-term residency in Europe.

But with so many residency-by-investment programs on the market, understanding exactly how Hungary’s version works, who qualifies, what the real benefits are, and what the government actually requires can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks everything down clearly, step-by-step, using only official Hungarian government sources, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Whether you're exploring a European base for travel, planning a future move, or simply comparing Golden Visa options, this article gives you a complete, accurate, and up-to-date look at how the Hungarian Golden Visa works.

Hungary Golden Visa Overview

The Hungarian Golden Visa, officially known as the Guest Investor Residence Permit, is a newly re-launched residency-by-investment program that went into effect on 1 July 2024 under Hungary’s new immigration law. It’s designed to attract third-country nationals who make significant investments in Hungary, offering them and their immediate family a stable, long-term residence status.

The program lets investors obtain a 10-year residence permit, which can be extended for an additional 10 years if they keep their qualifying investment. This means that, compared to many other residency programs, Hungary provides a relatively secure and long-term solution for investors.

Who Is It For?

Third-country nationals (i.e., non-EU/EEA citizens) whose entry or residence in Hungary is considered to be in the national economic interest.
Investors who can make one of the eligible investments:
- At least €250,000 into a real-estate fund registered with the Hungarian National Bank (MNB).
- Purchase of a residential property in Hungary with a minimum value of €500,000.
- €1,000,000 donation to a higher education institution maintained by a public trust, aimed at supporting education, research, or artistic creation.
Those who want long-term, stable residency in Hungary, with Schengen-area travel and the possibility to extend their permit.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

Hold a residence permit in Hungary for 10 years, with the option to renew for another 10 years, provided the investment is maintained.
Travel visa-free within the Schengen Area (up to 90 days in many Schengen countries).
Include your spouse and underage children in the application; they can get the same type of residence permit.
Live, work, and study in Hungary — the permit grants full residence rights.
Make the investment after entering Hungary on a special visa. Once you enter on a “guest-investor visa,” you have three months to complete your committed investment.
Stay flexible. There’s no strict minimum stay requirement, so you don’t need to spend most of your time in Hungary to keep the permit.

Hungary Golden Visa Requirements

To apply for the Hungarian Golden Visa (Guest Investor Visa / Residence Permit), applicants must prepare a set of standard documents as well as meet several specific eligibility requirements related to finances, health coverage, and investment eligibility.

Basic documents needed:

Completed visa or residence-permit application form
Valid passport with sufficient remaining validity
Recent passport-style photographs
Proof of the purpose of entry (such as an investment declaration or commitment)
Evidence of accommodation in Hungary (lease agreement, proof of reservation, or ownership document)
Proof of sufficient financial means
Proof of the legal origin of funds
Documentation confirming the qualifying investment or the commitment to complete it
Proof of health insurance or ability to cover medical expenses
Valid return or onward travel document or evidence of funds to obtain one
Marriage certificate and birth certificates for dependents (if applicable)
Curriculum vitae for each adult applicant

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency and Funds Origin

Applicants must demonstrate that they have the financial capacity to support themselves and any accompanying family members during their stay in Hungary. Specifically, they need to show at least €250,000 in readily accessible funds, which corresponds to the minimum investment amount required.

In addition, the legal origin of all investment funds must be clearly documented. This typically involves providing bank statements, business income records, property sale contracts, or other credible documentation proving that the money was obtained through lawful means.

Proof of Investment

One of the core requirements of the Hungarian Golden Visa is providing proof of the qualifying investment. Applicants must demonstrate that they have committed to, and later completed, one of the approved investment options.

This means showing documentation confirming at least €250,000 invested in an approved real estate fund, €500,000 in a residential property purchase, or a €1,000,000 donation to an eligible educational institution.

For the residence-permit stage, the investment must already be finalized, and applicants must provide official evidence that the funds have been transferred and the investment is fully completed.

Health Insurance

Applicants are required to hold valid health insurance that covers medical expenses in Hungary. This may be private international coverage or a policy purchased specifically for the stay.

Alternatively, applicants may provide proof of sufficient financial resources to cover potential healthcare costs. Regardless of the method, health coverage must be clearly demonstrated before the visa or residence permit can be issued.

Accommodation in Hungary

Applicants must demonstrate that they have secured a place to stay in Hungary. This can be shown through a rental contract, property ownership document, or a confirmed accommodation reservation. The accommodation does not necessarily need to be long-term, but it must cover the period during which the residence permit is being processed.

How to Apply for the Hungary Golden Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Hungarian Golden Visa involves two main stages: securing the Guest-Investor Visa to enter Hungary and then finalizing the Guest-Investor Residence Permit once your investment is completed. Below is a clear, structured guide through each step.

Step 1: Choose Your Investment Route

Select one of the eligible investment options: investing in an approved real estate fund, purchasing qualifying residential property, or making a donation through the appropriate institution. Your choice determines which documents you will need and how your process unfolds.

Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

Prepare all standard documentation, including your passport, photographs, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and financial documentation. You must also compile evidence showing your financial self-sufficiency and the legal origin of your investment funds.

Step 3: Submit Your Guest-Investor Visa Application

Apply for the Guest-Investor Visa at a Hungarian embassy or consulate. You will submit your documents, pay the visa fee, and attend an in-person appointment if required. Once submitted, your application will be processed for entry authorization.

Step 4: Receive Your Visa and Enter Hungary

After approval, your Guest-Investor Visa permits you to enter Hungary specifically to complete your chosen investment. This visa is valid for a limited period, during which you must finalize all investment-related steps.

Step 5: Complete Your Investment in Hungary

Once in Hungary, complete the investment you committed to. This includes transferring the required funds, signing any necessary contracts or agreements, and collecting official proof confirming that your investment is fully executed.

Step 6: Apply for the Guest-Investor Residence Permit

After your investment is finalized, apply for the long-term residence permit within Hungary. During this stage, biometrics (fingerprints and a facial photograph) are collected. The residence-permit application confirms your long-term status under the Golden Visa program.

Step 7: Receive Your Residence Permit Card

When approved, you will receive a residence permit valid for up to 10 years. This card gives you the right to live in Hungary, travel freely within the Schengen Area, and enjoy the full benefits of the Hungary Golden Visa.

Step 8: Maintain Your Eligibility

To keep your permit valid, you must maintain your qualifying investment and ensure ongoing compliance with requirements such as holding valid health insurance. At the end of the validity period, the permit can be renewed for another 10 years if all conditions are still met.

Stay Requirements in Hungary

One of the most appealing aspects of the Hungarian Golden Visa is its minimal physical-presence requirement. Unlike many other residency-by-investment programs that obligate investors to spend several months per year in the country, Hungary does not impose strict annual stay requirements to maintain the permit. Holders of the Guest-Investor Residence Permit are allowed to reside outside Hungary for long periods without risking the validity of their status, as long as they continue to meet the core conditions of the program—most importantly, maintaining the qualifying investment and keeping key documents, such as their passport and health insurance, up to date.

Although there is no mandatory minimum stay, the residence permit still grants full legal residency rights in Hungary. This means investors are free to live in Hungary as much or as little as they choose, travel in and out of the country without restriction, and enjoy visa-free movement across the Schengen Area. Spending time in Hungary is optional, unless the investor plans to pursue permanent residency or citizenship later on, processes that may require demonstrating a closer, more established connection to the country.

How Much Does the Hungary Golden Visa Cost?

The Hungarian Golden Visa involves several costs, including the investment itself, government fees, and additional administrative expenses. Understanding the full financial commitment is essential before starting the process.

Investment Amount: The primary cost is the qualifying investment. Applicants can choose from:
- €250,000 minimum in an approved Hungarian real estate fund
- €500,000 minimum for the purchase of a qualifying residential property
- €1,000,000 donation to an eligible educational institution
Application and Processing Fees: Standard visa and residence permit fees apply, which cover the processing of your Guest-Investor Visa and the subsequent residence permit. Fees may vary depending on the consulate or embassy handling your application.
Health Insurance: All applicants must maintain valid health insurance coverage in Hungary, which is an ongoing expense.
Legal and Administrative Costs: These include fees for document preparation, notarization, translation, and any professional services used to support the application process.
Family Members: If you are including dependents (spouse and children), additional costs apply for each family member, including application fees, health insurance, and administrative expenses.

While the investment itself is the most significant expense, applicants should plan for these additional costs to ensure a smooth and compliant application process.

Taxes for People With a Hungary Golden Visa

Holders of the Hungarian Golden Visa are primarily considered residents for immigration purposes, but not automatically tax residents in Hungary. This distinction is important for understanding your financial obligations. A Golden Visa does not require you to pay Hungarian income tax unless you actually live in Hungary and meet the conditions that define tax residency. Typically, you are considered a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in a calendar year in the country or have your primary economic interests located in Hungary.

For investors who do not establish tax residency, there is no obligation to report or pay tax on income earned outside Hungary. However, any income generated within Hungary—such as rental income from local property or earnings from a Hungarian business—would generally be subject to Hungarian taxation.

Golden Visa holders should also consider other potential obligations, such as capital gains taxes, property taxes, or corporate taxes if they engage in business activities in Hungary. Maintaining proper documentation and consulting with a qualified tax advisor is strongly recommended to ensure compliance with local tax laws while benefiting from the residency program.

Overall, the Hungarian Golden Visa provides flexibility for investors: you can maintain long-term residency and enjoy Schengen travel without automatically becoming liable for full Hungarian income tax, unless you choose to establish permanent residence or engage in taxable activities within the country.

Living in Hungary with the Golden Visa

Living in Hungary with the Golden Visa offers a unique combination of European convenience and Central European charm. As a visa holder, you have the right to reside anywhere in Hungary and enjoy the country’s high quality of life, from the vibrant cultural scene and historic architecture of Budapest to the peaceful countryside and scenic towns. The Golden Visa also allows you to travel freely across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, making Hungary an ideal base for exploring Europe while maintaining long-term residency rights.

Beyond travel flexibility, the Hungarian Golden Visa provides access to essential services, including healthcare and education, depending on your chosen insurance and residency arrangements. Daily life in Hungary is generally affordable compared to Western European countries, with a lower cost of living for housing, transportation, and dining. This combination of cultural richness, cost efficiency, and the freedom to travel makes living in Hungary with the Golden Visa appealing to investors, families, and individuals seeking a stable European residency option.

Best Cities to Live in Hungary

Hungary offers a range of cities that combine vibrant culture, modern amenities, and an excellent quality of life. For Golden Visa holders, these cities provide different lifestyles, from bustling urban centers to charming riverside towns. Here are three of the best cities to consider:

Budapest

Hungary’s capital, Budapest, is a dynamic European city that blends history, culture, and modern convenience. With its iconic architecture, thermal baths, world-class restaurants, and thriving business environment, Budapest is ideal for those seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle. The city also offers excellent public transport, international schools, and a strong expat community, making it a top choice for Golden Visa investors and their families.

Debrecen

As Hungary’s second-largest city, Debrecen combines a smaller-city feel with vibrant cultural and educational opportunities. Known for its universities, medical facilities, and lively festivals, Debrecen provides a welcoming atmosphere for families and professionals alike. The city is well-connected to Budapest and other European destinations, offering a quieter, more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing convenience or amenities.

Szeged

Szeged, often called the “City of Sunshine,” is famous for its charming architecture, rich cultural scene, and relaxed pace of life. It is ideal for those who prefer a smaller city with a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. Szeged offers quality education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities, along with a growing international presence, making it a great choice for Golden Visa holders looking for a balance between work, study, and leisure.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). 1 HUF is about $0.0030 USD.

The average net monthly salary in Hungary is around HUF 500,500, which equates to approximately $1,520 USD

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Budapest

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $634 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $800 per month
Basic Utilities – $133 per month
Wi-Fi – $18.50 per month
Public Transport – $1.27 one-way
Groceries (2 people) – $434–$600 per month

Szeged

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $400 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $590 per month
Basic Utilities – $69 per month
Wi-Fi – $20 per month
Public Transport – $1.63 one-way
Groceries (2 people) – $694 per month

Debrecen

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $500–$830 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $600–$1,000 per month
Basic Utilities – $100–$167 per month
Wi-Fi – $20–$26 per month
Public Transport – $1.25 one-way
Groceries (2 people) – $266–$400 per month

FAQs

What is the Hungary Golden Visa?

How much do I need to invest to qualify for the Golden Visa?

Applicants can qualify by investing at least €250,000 in an approved Hungarian real estate fund, purchasing residential property worth at least €500,000, or making a €1,000,000 donation to an eligible educational institution.

Do I need to live in Hungary to keep my Golden Visa?

No. The Hungary Golden Visa does not impose strict stay requirements. You can reside outside Hungary for extended periods without losing your residence permit, as long as your investment remains valid and other requirements are maintained.

Can I include my family in the Golden Visa application?

Yes. Applicants can include their spouse and dependent children. Family members receive the same residence rights, including travel within the Schengen Area, healthcare access, and education opportunities.

Does holding the Hungary Golden Visa make me a tax resident?

Not automatically. You are only considered a Hungarian tax resident if you spend more than 183 days per year in Hungary or establish your primary economic interests in the country. Otherwise, income earned outside Hungary is not subject to Hungarian income tax.

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