Hungary Golden Visa
Minimum investment
Permit validity period
Visa-free with a permit
Investment program
8 benefits of the Hungary residence permit by investment
Visa-free travel
Permit holders can travel without visas to the EU, Schengen Zone, and other European countries, totaling 38 nations.
Family inclusion
The program allows investors to include family members in the application, including spouses, children up to 25, and parents, enabling families to move and stay together.
Safe haven abroad
Hungary residency offers a reliable alternative, serving as a safe haven during political or economic turmoil in the home country.
Access to high-quality healthcare
Hungary is renowned for its medical tourism, thanks to its high-quality healthcare that meets EU standards. Participants in the Golden Visa program gain access to these top-notch medical services.
Educational opportunities
Seven Hungarian universities rank among the top 1,000 worldwide. Residence permits enable investors’ families to access these prestigious institutions.
Low cost of living
In comparison to other Western European nations, Hungary typically offers a more affordable cost of living.
Business opportunities
Hungary’s central location in Europe and its EU membership make it an attractive location for business, offering investment and entrepreneurship opportunities within a stable economic environment.
Tax optimisation
Hungary offers favourable tax conditions for residents. The corporate tax rate in Hungary is 9%, the lowest in the EU. The personal tax rate of 15% is also relatively low compared to other European countries.
Permit holders can travel without visas to the EU, Schengen Zone, and other European countries, totaling 38 nations.
The program allows investors to include family members in the application, including spouses, children up to 25, and parents, enabling families to move and stay together.
Hungary residency offers a reliable alternative, serving as a safe haven during political or economic turmoil in the home country.
Hungary is renowned for its medical tourism, thanks to its high-quality healthcare that meets EU standards. Participants in the Golden Visa program gain access to these top-notch medical services.
Seven Hungarian universities rank among the top 1,000 worldwide. Residence permits enable investors’ families to access these prestigious institutions.
In comparison to other Western European nations, Hungary typically offers a more affordable cost of living.
Hungary’s central location in Europe and its EU membership make it an attractive location for business, offering investment and entrepreneurship opportunities within a stable economic environment.
Hungary offers favourable tax conditions for residents. The corporate tax rate in Hungary is 9%, the lowest in the EU. The personal tax rate of 15% is also relatively low compared to other European countries.
Requirements for applicants for the Hungary residency by investment
Investor
From a non-EU and non-EEA country Over 18 years old With a second passport if coming from the US With legal income With insurance
Spouse
In an official marriage With a second passport if coming from the US
Children
Without conditions if under 18 Studying in university, unmarried, and financially dependent if aged 18 to 25 With a second passport if coming from the US
Parents
Financially dependent on the investor With pension as the only source of income With a second passport if coming from the US
Initiate your path to residency in Hungary
Investment options under the Hungary Golden Visa program
€250,000+
An investor can purchase units of real estate funds with a minimum value of €250,000. The selected fund should be registered with the Hungarian National Bank.
€1+ million
An investor can donate a minimum of €1 million to a higher education institution as a charitable contribution. The institution must be supervised by a public interest management foundation. The donation will support Hungarian education, sports, and the arts.
Documents required for a Hungary residence permit by investment
- Passport valid for at least 1 year.
- Completed application form for a residence permit.
- Two 3×4 cm photos taken less than a month ago.
- Health insurance documentation.
- Proof of legitimate income.
- A statement confirming the applicant’s intention to fulfil the investment condition.
- Proof of investment.
- Bank statement indicating cash balance.
- CV for every family member over 18.
- Marriage certificate, if applicable.
- Birth certificates, if applicable.
Step-by-step procedure for obtaining Hungarian residency
The full process of obtaining the Hungary Golden Visa takes at least 5 months. The investor would need help from an expert to ensure a streamlined status obtaining process.
1. Find an agent
Consult with a qualified professional, such as a lawyer or authorised legal advisor, to assist you in navigating the steps required to obtain residency in Hungary.
2. Pass a preliminary check
The agent will conduct a thorough preliminary assessment to verify that you meet the necessary criteria and are likely to fulfil the Hungarian residency requirements.
3. Choose an investment option
The Hungary Golden Visa offers investors two options to choose from: purchase of real estate fund units, or contribution to education.
4. Apply for a Guest Investor Visa
Submit the necessary documents to apply for a Guest Investor Visa, which is issued for 6 months. During this period, the investor must travel to Hungary and apply for a residence permit.
5. Visit Hungary to submit documents
Upon arrival to Hungary, the investor signs an agreement with the chosen fund or education institution. After this is done, they apply for a residence permit via the EnterHungary portal or in person at the regional office of the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing.
6. Fulfil the investment condition
Within 93 days from the first entry to Hungary with the Guest Investor Visa, the applicant must make an investment.
7. Wait for the application processing
The residence permit application is processed within 21—30 days. The residence permit card is issued within 7 days.
8. Extend your residency
A residence permit is initially valid for 10 years. Before it expires, an investor can apply for an extension, which can be granted for an additional ten years.
Comparison with other Golden Visas
| Country | Status | Minimum investment | Obtaining period | Initial permit validity | Permit extension | Number of investment options | Types of investment properties | Requirement to stay |
| Hungary Golden Visa | Residence permit | €250,000 | 5+ months | 10 years | For 10 years | 3 | None | None |
| Portugal Golden Visa | Residence permit | €250,000 | 12+ months | 2 years | For 2 years | 5 | None | 7 days a year |
| Italy Golden Visa | Residence permit | €250,000 | 4+ months | 2 years | For 3 years | 4 | None | None |
| Greece Golden Visa | Residence permit | €250,000 | 4+ months | 5 years | For 5 years | 6 | Residential or commercial | None |
| Cyprus Golden Visa | Permanent residence | €300,000 | 9+ months | Lifelong | Not applicable | 4 | Residential or commercial | A visit every 2 years |
| Spain Golden Visa | Residence permit | €500,000 | 5+ months | 3 years | For 5 years | 6 | Residential or commercial | None |
Frequently asked questions
Does Hungary have a Golden Visa?
Yes, Hungary has a Golden Visa program. New legislation was approved in 2023, and the program is set to launch in 2024. In short, an investor contributes at least €250,000 and receives a residence permit for 10 years.
Can I get residency in Hungary if I buy a house?
No, Hungary does not grant residency for investments in property. Investors seeking residency in Hungary can choose one of two available options:
- purchase investment fund units for at least €250,000;
- contribute a minimum of €1,000,000 to an institution of higher learning.
How can I get a residence permit in Hungary?
One option to obtain a residence permit in Hungary is by investment. To qualify, an investor must contribute at least €250,000. This type of permit is valid for 10 years, making it the longest option available in Hungary.
Which country has the easiest Golden Visa?
Several European countries offer Golden Visa programs for investors. The Hungary Golden Visa is considered one of the more affordable options, requiring an investment of at least €250,000. The permit is issued for 10 years, typically within 6 months.
How much does it cost to obtain a Hungarian residence permit?
The minimum investment required to obtain a Hungarian residence permit is €250,000. Additionally, there are additional administrative and service expenses.
Can I travel to Europe with a Hungarian residence permit?
Yes, with a Hungarian residence permit obtained through investment, you can travel to the EU, Schengen Zone, and other European countries without needing visas. In total, this includes 38 countries. The duration of stay in most countries is 90 days within every 180-day period.
How long does it take to obtain a Hungarian residence permit by investment?
The entire process of obtaining a Hungary Golden Visa typically takes 5 or more months. This timeline includes acquiring a Guest Investor Visa, travelling to Hungary to apply for a residence permit, making the investment, and awaiting the application to be processed.
How long is the RP in Hungary issued for?
A residence permit in Hungary obtained by investment is issued for 10 years. It is possible to extend it once for an additional 10 years.
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Our team assists international clients in navigating the process, minimising risks, and safeguarding their finances. Submit an application to discover strategies to secure your Hungary Golden Visa.