To obtain a Hungary Golden Visa, a candidate must choose one of the investment options specified by the law:
- buy real estate fund units for at least €250,000;
- purchase residential property in Hungary for at least €500,000;
- donate €1,000,000 or more to a Hungarian institution of higher learning.
Return on investments. Program conditions allow Golden Visa holders to return their investments, depending on the chosen investment option. Only property and real estate fund buyers enjoy this opportunity.
The program obliges participants to keep their investments for at least 5 years; after this period, the assets can be sold and money returned. If the invested capital is withdrawn earlier, the residence permit will be cancelled.
Donations to institutions of higher learning are non-refundable. Thus, such investors cannot claim a refund. In return, the law provides them with more preferential conditions for extending residency.
Extension of residence permit. Upon the expiration of the residence permit, the investor is permitted to extend it. The extension can be requested only once and is granted for up to 10 years.
To extend a residence permit, candidates must adhere to their original residency purpose:
- For those with permits via real estate fund investments, a new purchase of fund units worth at least €250,000 is required.
- Applicants who secured a Golden Visa through property investment must maintain ownership of residential real estate valued at €500,000 or higher. If the property is sold or devalued below €500,000, a fresh investment is necessary. However, if the property continues to satisfy program criteria, no new investment is needed for extension.
- Golden Visa holders who donated to higher education institutions are exempt from additional donations. For extension, submit the relevant application for automatic permit renewal.
The Hungary Golden Visa allows its holders to enter Hungary at any time, live, be employed, do business in the country, and travel across the Schengen Area visa-free. To maintain the status, investors do not have to move to Hungary or live there on a regular basis.