The residence permit for other purposes catered to those not fitting into existing Hungarian residence categories, mainly financially independent individuals. To secure this permit, applicants needed to demonstrate substantial income, savings, or property ownership in Hungary. This type of permit did not allow the holder to work or engage in gainful activity in Hungary.
Recent immigration reforms have tightened residency rules, increasing the types of residence permits from 18 to 24 and eliminating the flexible “other purposes” category. Holders of this now-defunct permit must transition to a new permit type upon its expiration to remain in Hungary.
Financially independent foreigners once eligible for the “other purposes” residence now have new permit options: the Golden Visa, White Card, or a guest self-employment permit.
The Hungary Golden Visa is granted to non-EU citizens in exchange for investments in the country’s economy. Available investment options include:
- investment in real estate fund units — €250,000;
- residential property purchase — €500,000;
- charitable donation to an institution of higher learning — €1,000,000.
Investors acquire Hungarian residency for 10 years, with the possibility for a spouse and children to obtain residence permits alongside the main applicant. Upon expiration, permits can be renewed for an additional 10 years based on the same investment criteria as the initial permit.
Golden Visa holders are not required to relocate to Hungary. To maintain their status, they must retain their investment for at least 5 years. After this period, the invested funds may be withdrawn.
The White Card is awarded to digital nomads with an income source from outside Hungary, the EU, and the EEA. It also applies to entrepreneurs and business owners registered outside of Hungary.
To qualify for residency, digital nomads must fulfil the following criteria:
- show proof of a monthly income of at least €3,000 from outside Hungary;
- demonstrate having savings of €10,000 in a bank account;
- lease residential property in Hungary for one year;
- obtain medical insurance.
The residence permit is issued to the applicant alone; dependents cannot be included in the application. The White Card is initially valid for one year and can be extended for an additional year.
The guest self-employment residence permit caters to foreigners aiming to start a business in Hungary. The income from this business must be adequate for living in the country. If a group of entrepreneurs collaborates to establish a company, each member can qualify for residency.
To obtain a guest self-employment residence permit, applicants must:
- draft a comprehensive business plan.
- register a company in Hungary.
- open a corporate bank account within the country.
- secure residential accommodation through purchase or rent.
- acquire medical insurance.
This permit is initially issued for one year with the possibility of extension for an additional two years. Initially, the permit is for the applicant only. However, upon renewal after one year, the applicant may include family members in the application for residency.
