Hungary offers permanent residency options that can be particularly attractive to wealthy individuals seeking to live in the EU. With a stable economy, a rich cultural history, and a strategic location in Europe, Hungary is an appealing option for long-term residence.
Elena Kozyreva, Managing Director for Real Estate projects, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, will go through the requirements, costs, and key application tips for obtaining Hungarian residency by investment.
Permanent residency in Hungary allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Hungary indefinitely. It is different from a temporary visa or residence permit, as it grants the holder long-term rights.
Hungary permanent residency application can be submitted through several methods, including investment or business registration. It opens up the possibility of living and working anywhere in the EU, as Hungary is part of the Schengen Area.
Permanent residency offers multiple advantages. Here are nine reasons why you might consider applying:
Freedom to travel. As Hungary is a member of the Schengen Area, residents can travel freely across 29 European countries.
Access to healthcare. Hungary offers excellent healthcare services to residents, which are among the best in the EU.
Tax benefits. Hungary offers competitive tax rates for residents, with a flat 15% personal income tax rate.
Stability. Hungary’s stable political and economic environment provides a secure base for long-term residence.
Business opportunities. Permanent residents can start businesses in Hungary, benefitting from the country's investor-friendly regulations.
EU work rights. Holders of Hungarian permanent residency can work in any EU country without needing a work permit.
Real estate investment. Permanent residents can purchase property in Hungary, often at lower prices compared to other EU countries.
Education. Hungary has a high standard of education, and permanent residents can access public schooling for their children.
Citizenship pathway. After eight years of residence, permanent residents can apply for Hungarian citizenship, further strengthening their EU ties.
There are three main ways to obtain permanent residency in Hungary. Each option has specific requirements and benefits.
Golden Visa. The Golden Visa is designed for wealthy individuals who are willing to make a financial investment in Hungary. This can include purchasing real estate or investing in a business. It grants permanent residency and access to Hungary’s favourable living conditions.
White Card. The White Card is aimed at highly skilled workers, investors, or those providing services in Hungary. It is a more flexible option that allows foreign nationals to reside in Hungary while contributing to the economy.
Business registration. Another route to permanent residency is through registering a business in Hungary. Entrepreneurs can gain permanent residency by proving their active involvement in a Hungarian company.
The permanent residency in Hungary can be obtained after living continuously in Hungary for a minimum of three years under temporary residence. It's available to non-EU nationals who have been living in Hungary with a settlement permit.
If you have family members who are Hungarian residents or citizens, you may apply for residency through family reunification. The family member in Hungary must demonstrate sufficient income and housing conditions to support the incoming family member.
In all cases, applicants need to provide documents such as proof of income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
The investment amount is set at a minimum of $250,000. This sum must be placed in a government-approved investment fund, which may include options like mutual funds, bond funds, or other diversified portfolios. The funds are generally low-risk and managed by licensed financial institutions.
Other options include purchasing real estate with a minimum investment of €500,000 or making a donation to a higher institution with a minimum of €1,000,000.
In addition to the investment itself, applicants must cover administrative costs and processing fees. These fees are non-refundable, and they cover the cost of processing the application, background checks, and administrative tasks.
The application process for the Golden Visa. It’s important to follow these steps carefully to ensure smooth processing.
Choose your investment. Decide whether you want to invest in real estate or business. Ensure the investment meets the €250,000 requirement.
Getting a Guest Investor Visa. The visa is valid for 6 months and allows investors to visit Hungary and apply for a Golden Visa.
Submit application documents. Prepare all necessary documents, including proof of investment, income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
Approval process. The application will be processed by Hungarian authorities, taking 5 months.
Biometrics and interview. Applicants may need to provide fingerprints, photographs and attend a brief interview.
Residence permit grant. If all requirements are met, you will receive a residency card, allowing you to live and work in Hungary and travel within the Schengen Area.
Permanent residence permit. Investors can obtain permanent residence after living in Hungary for at least 3 years.
Hungary offers several pathways to permanent residency, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. Whether by investment, business registration, or skilled work, Hungary’s residency options present an attractive opportunity for wealthy individuals seeking a stable, accessible home in the heart of Europe. The Golden Visa program is one of the most popular routes, providing residency and the benefits of living in Hungary.