Hungary

Hungary offers a high quality of life, blending a rich cultural heritage with a dynamic lifestyle and a growing economy. Its central position in Europe makes it a prime choice for investors seeking access to EU markets.

  • Investment

    Minimum investment of EUR 250,000

  • Key benefit

    Grants the ability to reside and work in Hungary, along with visa-free access to the Schengen Zone.

Hungary Residence by Investment Program

Hungary offers a compelling opportunity for individuals and families looking for a high standard of living combined with attractive investment prospects in the heart of Europe. With its central location, rich cultural landscape, and growing economy, Hungary stands out as a strategic base for international investors. Non-EU nationals and their families can apply for a Hungarian Guest Investor Residence Permit, which allows them to become long-term legal residents of Hungary while also enjoying visa-free travel throughout Europe’s Schengen Area. This program provides both lifestyle benefits and strategic access to the broader European market. It is an ideal choice for those seeking stability, mobility, and long-term value in the European Union.

Benefits of Hungary residency by investment

Quick and effective path to European residence

Reside and work in Hungary with Schengen visa-free travel.

No minimum stay requirement

Includes spouse and children under the age of 18

Requirements for the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit

Non-EU citizens, along with their spouse and children under 18, can secure a Guest Investor Residence Permit by choosing from the following investment options:

  1. Real Estate Investment Fund:

    The acquisition of investment certificates, issued by a real estate fund registered with the National Bank of Hungary, for at least EUR 250,000

    The following conditions apply:

  1. Donation to a Hungarian Public Trust:

    A donation of at least EUR 1 million to a public trust-operated higher education institution is required. The applicant must have no Schengen alerts or security issues, and the immigration authority will consult national security services.

Procedures for the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit

Applicants must first obtain a Guest Investor Visa and declare their intention to invest, although completing the investment is not required at this stage. After receiving the visa, they must travel to Hungary, finalize the investment within three months, and then apply for a Guest Investor Residence Permit within 93 days. Proof of the investment must be submitted with the application.
Once all requirements are met, no further travel to Hungary is needed. The applicant, along with their spouse and qualifying children, will be granted a long-term residence permit valid for 10 years, which can be renewed for another 10 years as long as the investment is maintained.

Acquiring Hungarian citizenship after the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit

A guest investor can become eligible for permanent residence in Hungary after legally residing in the country for a minimum of three years. Starting from January 2025, applicants will be required to pass a cultural exam in Hungarian as part of the process. After obtaining permanent residence, the investor can apply for Hungarian citizenship, typically after living in Hungary for eight years. However, exceptions may apply for Hungarian minor children or spouses, who may be able to apply sooner. Regardless of the circumstances, passing the Hungarian cultural exam remains a mandatory requirement for citizenship.

Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit

Frequently Asked Questions

The Hungary Guest Investor Program is a residence-by-investment initiative that allows non-EU nationals and their families to obtain a long-term residence permit in Hungary by making a qualifying investment. The residence permit is valid for 10 years and is renewable for an additional 10 years with the maintenance of the investment.

Applicants can choose from the following investment options:

  • Real Estate Investment Fund: Invest at least EUR 250,000 in investment certificates issued by a real estate fund registered with the National Bank of Hungary.

  • Donation to a Hungarian Public Trust: Make a monetary donation of at least EUR 1 million to an institution of higher education operated by a public trust performing public functions.

Third-country nationals, along with their spouse and children under 18, are eligible to apply for the Guest Investor Residence Permit.

Benefits include the right to live and work in Hungary, access to Europe’s Schengen Area, and no minimum stay requirement. The permit also extends to the applicant’s spouse and children under 18.

Processing times for residence by investment applications may vary. Please inquire for more specific details.

The minimum investment starts at EUR 250,000 into a real estate investment fund.

Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse and children under 18 in their application.

There are no specific residence requirements; however, applicants must maintain their investment for a minimum period of five years.

Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment or contribution, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.

Yes, after maintaining residence for eight years, investors may be eligible to apply for Hungarian citizenship.

Applicants must first obtain a Guest Investor Visa and declare their intention to invest. After receiving the visa, they must travel to Hungary, complete the investment within three months, and then apply for the Guest Investor Residence Permit within 93 days. Proof of investment is required with the application.