Hungary Golden Visa 2025
Residency By Investment
Second Passport Through Business and Real Estate Investment
Page Contents
Hungary Residency by Investment
In a Snapshot
| Metric | Detail (2025) |
|---|---|
| Launch date | Applications open 1 July 2024 |
| Visa validity (pre-investment) | 6 months Guest Investor Visa |
| Residence-permit validity | 10 years + one 10-year renewal |
| Minimum investment | €250 000 (state-approved real-estate fund units) |
| Alternative route | €1 000 000 public-interest donation (higher-education trust) |
| Real-estate purchase | |
| Processing window | 21–30 days (visa) | 7 days (permit card) |
| Schengen travel | 90/180-day access |
| Presence requirement | None for renewal; 3 yrs continuous stay for PR |
| Citizenship timeline | 8 yrs total (3 yrs PR + 5 yrs) |
The Hungarian Residency by Investment program offers a cost-effective and straightforward way for individuals to establish a European lifestyle. With a minimum investment starting at just €250,000 in Hungarian real estate, this program opens doors to Europe for those seeking new opportunities, a better quality of life, and the freedom to explore the continent.
Investment Routes at a Glance
| Route | Min. Outlay | Key Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Real-Estate Fund Units | €250 000 | Buy units in a government-designated REIF; hold ≥5 yrs |
| Public-Trust Donation | €1 000 000 | Non-refundable gift to a university/public-interest trust |
| Stage | Requirement | When |
|---|---|---|
| Guest Investor Visa | Proof of funds & background check | Day 0 |
| Residence Permit (10 yrs) | Complete investment inside 90 days of entry | ~Month 2 |
| National Permanent Residence Card | 3 yrs continuous legal stay | Year 3 |
| Hungarian Citizenship | 5 yrs after PR + basic civics & language test | Year 8 |
Requirements for Hungarian Residency by Investment
To qualify for the Hungarian Residency by Investment program, applicants must show proof of sufficient funds in a deposit or personal account. These funds should be adequate to cover the real estate purchase price and provide financial support for themselves and any accompanying family members. Unlike many other residency programs, Hungary requires investors to complete the real estate purchase only after their residency application has been approved, reducing upfront financial risks.
Key Advantages of the Hungarian Residency by Investment Program
The Hungarian Residency by Investment program offers several significant benefits to participants:
- Rapid Processing Time: Residency cards are issued within a swift 4 to 6 months from the date of application, making it one of the fastest residency programs in Europe.
- High Approval Rates: The program has a high success rate, providing peace of mind for investors and their families.
- Family Inclusion: The primary applicant can include their spouse and children under 18 years old as dependents without additional charges.
- Flexible Dependent Options: Dependent children over 18 and parents (including in-laws) can also be included for an additional fee, with no age restrictions. However, financial dependency must be proven for these dependents.
These features make the program not only accessible but also family-friendly, catering to various family structures and needs.
Travel Rights and Benefits with Hungarian Residency
Hungarian residency offers extensive travel and lifestyle benefits due to Hungary’s strategic position as a member of the Schengen Area, the European Union (EU), and NATO. Residency holders enjoy the freedom to travel, live, and work across all 26 Schengen countries, facilitating personal and professional mobility.
Key Benefits Include:
- Enhanced Travel Freedom: Enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries within the Schengen Area.
- Business and Trade Opportunities: Seamless access to European markets for business expansion and trade.
- Cultural and Lifestyle Advantages: Experience the rich cultural heritage and diverse lifestyle options available across Europe.
This program provides a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to diversify their residence options and enhance their quality of life in a stable and prosperous region.
| Question | Answer |
|---|
| What is the minimum investment for Hungary’s Guest Investor permit? | As of 2025 you need at least €250,000 in government-approved real-estate fund units; the earlier €500k property route was abolished in Dec 2024. |
| Can I work in Hungary on this residence card? | Yes. The 10-year Guest Investor Residence Permit grants full work and business rights nationwide without extra licences. |
| How soon can I get permanent residency? | After three consecutive years of lawful residence you can apply for a National Permanent Residence Card, the first step toward citizenship. IMI Daily |
| Does Hungary allow dual citizenship? | Hungary recognises multiple citizenship, so you can keep your existing passport if your home country permits it. |
| Is Hungarian language required? | No test for the residence permit. A basic civics-and-language exam (A2 level) is only needed when you apply for citizenship |
Hungary Overview
One of the key advantages of the Hungarian Residency by Investment program is its efficient processing time. Residency cards are typically issued within 4 to 6 months from the date of application, ensuring a swift pathway to obtaining residency in Hungary.
In addition to the residency advantages, Hungary’s membership in the Schengen zone, the European Union, and NATO provides investors with exceptional benefits. Residency in Hungary grants visa-free travel to over 172 countries and the freedom to reside in any of the 26 Schengen Area countries, facilitating business expansion, trade opportunities, and enhanced personal mobility within the European Union.
Investment
Minimum investment of EUR 250,000
Investment
Minimum investment of EUR 250,000
Processing Time
Processing time of 4 to 6 months.
Key Benefit
Visa free travel to over 172 countries
Citizenship by Investment Hungary
- Residency cards issued within 4 to 6 months from the date of application
- High approval rates for residency applications
- Investment in real estate is made after the residency application has been approved
- Minimum investment of €250,000 in Hungarian real estate
- Funds must cover both the real estate purchase price and the minimum amount required for sustaining the investor and their family member
- Spouses and children below 18 years of age can apply as dependents in the Hungarian Residency by Investment program
- Dependent children above 18 years and dependent parents can also be included in the application
- No age restrictions for parents and in-laws
- Proof of financial dependency required for children above 18 years of age and parents of the main applicant and spouse
- Hungarian Residency allows you to travel visa free across over 170 countries as well as reside in any of the EU-member countries.
Get full guide about the process
Benefits of Hungary Residency
Process
- Investment in real estate is made after the residency application has been approved
- Residency cards issued within 4 to 6 months from the date of application
- Minimum investment of €155,000 in Hungarian real estate
Global Mobility
Residency in Hungary grants visa-free travel to over 172 countries and the freedom to reside in any of the 26 Schengen Area countries, facilitating business expansion, trade opportunities, and enhanced personal mobility within the European Union.
The program covers dependents under 28 years old. Lifetime permanent residence of Hungary is granted to the elderly parents of the investor.
Wealth Protection
- No tax obligations for non-residents
- No minimum stay requirements.
Country Information
Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Hungary offers a diverse and vibrant experience. The country is characterized by its stunning landscapes, including the Danube River, picturesque villages, and thermal baths.
Hungary is home to various ethnic groups, including Hungarians, Roma, Germans, Slovaks, and others, contributing to its cultural diversity. The official language is Hungarian, renowned for its unique linguistic features and historical roots.
The Hungarian economy has shown steady growth in recent years, attracting foreign investment and fostering a strong economic presence in the European Union.
Hungary’s strategic location within Europe positions it as a gateway for trade and commerce.The country offers a favorable business environment and has implemented policies to support entrepreneurship and innovation.
Tourism plays a significant role in Hungary’s economy, attracting visitors with its historical landmarks, including the iconic Buda Castle, thermal spas, and the renowned wine regions.
Budapest is the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, utilizing the EUR(XCD) as its official currency, with an exchange rate of 1 USD to 0.89 EUR. The city has a population of 9,579,601 and operates under a Parliamentary Representative Democratic Republic government system. Hungarian, English are the predominant languages spoken in this vibrant Caribbean capital.
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FAQs about Hungary
Obtaining Hungary’s residence permit takes an average of 3-4 months.
You must stay for at least 6-7 months within one year, after which you can renew the residence permit as long as the company established in Hungary is still operating.
