Hungary
Hungary offers an outstanding quality of life, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, dynamic lifestyle, and strong economy. Positioned at the heart of Europe, it is an attractive destination for investors seeking access to European markets. The country boasts a highly skilled workforce, modern infrastructure, and a favorable business environment, making it a prime location for both living and investment. Additionally, Hungary’s blend of historic charm and contemporary amenities provides a unique and fulfilling experience for its residents.
Residence by Investment Overview
Non-EU investors and their families can now apply for a Hungarian Guest Investor Residence Permit, which grants them long-term legal residency in Hungary along with access to Europe’s Schengen Area. This permit not only provides a gateway to explore business and lifestyle opportunities within Hungary but also facilitates visa-free travel across the 26 countries in the Schengen Zone.
Investment
Minimum investment of EUR 250,000
Processing Time
Approximately 21 working days
Key Benefit
The right to live and work in Hungary with access to Europe’s Schengen Area
Hungary Residence by Investment
Hungary is an attractive destination for those looking for a high-quality living experience and lucrative investment opportunities in the heart of Europe. Non-EU investors and their families can now apply for a Hungarian Guest Investor Residence Permit, allowing them to gain long-term legal residency in Hungary with access to Europe’s Schengen Area.
Benefits of Hungarian residence by investment
Fast and efficient route to European residency
Reside and work in Hungary with visa-free access to Europe’s Schengen Area
No mandatory minimum stay
Covers spouse and children under 18
Investment properties can generate income
Requirements for the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit:
A third-country citizen, along with their spouse and children under 18, can obtain a Guest Investor Residence Permit by choosing 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.
Conditions:
A minimum of 40% of the fund’s net assets must be invested in residential real estate within Hungary, with the remaining funds possibly allocated to commercial properties.
The investment must be held for at least five years.
Only licensed fund managers who follow specific investment principles and hold a site security certificate or are registered with the Constitution Protection Office can manage these funds.
Real Estate Acquisition (effective from 1 January 2025):
Purchase of undisputed residential property in Hungary, valued at a minimum of EUR 500,000.
Conditions:
The property must be strictly residential and free of any disputes, encumbrances, or claims.
A five-year prohibition on sale or encumbrance must be recorded in the land registry.
A 4% property transfer tax applies, based on the market value.
The property must be solely or jointly owned with family members, with the main applicant holding at least EUR 500,000 in property value.
The property can be rented out, with Hungary’s personal income tax on rental income capped at 15%.
Donation to a Hungarian Public Trust:
Make a monetary donation of at least EUR 1 million to a higher education institution operated by a public trust that serves public functions.
Applicants must not have any alerts in the Schengen Information System, nor any expulsions or entry bans. They must also not pose a threat to public order, security, or national security. The immigration authority will consult with Hungary's law enforcement and national security services during the application process.
Procedures and time frame of the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit
Applicants must first obtain a Guest Investor Visa and declare their intention to pursue one of the investment options during the visa application process, though they are not required to finalize the investment at this stage.
After receiving the Guest Investor Visa, applicants must travel to Hungary and complete their investment within three months. They must then apply for a Guest Investor Residence Permit through the immigration authority or the Enter Hungary electronic platform within 93 days of their initial entry. Proof of the completed investment must accompany the application. Once all conditions are fulfilled, no further travel to Hungary is required.
The applicant, along with their eligible spouse and children, will be granted a long-term residence permit valid for 10 years, which can be renewed for an additional 10 years as long as the investment is maintained.
The application process typically takes around 21 working days.
Acquiring Hungarian citizenship after the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit
A guest investor can qualify for permanent residence in Hungary after legally residing there for three years before applying. For applications submitted after 1 January 2025, passing a written cultural exam in Hungarian will also be necessary. Citizenship may be pursued after obtaining permanent residence, typically after living in Hungary for at least eight years. However, exceptions may apply for Hungarian minor children or spouses. The requirement to pass a Hungarian cultural exam remains in place for citizenship as well.
Hungary residence by investment program frequently asked questions
What is the Hungary Guest Investor Program?
The Hungary Guest Investor Program grants residence to individuals and their families through substantial economic contributions.
What are the investment options available for the Hungary Guest Investor Program?
Investment options include investing in a real estate investment fund, acquiring residential property, or making a donation to a Hungarian public trust.
What are the benefits of obtaining Hungarian residence through investment?
Benefits include the right to live, work, and study in Hungary, visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen Area, and no minimum stay requirement.
What is the minimum investment required for Hungarian residence by investment?
The minimum investment starts at EUR 250,000 into a real estate investment fund.
How long does it take to process an application for the Hungary Guest Investor Program?
The processing time is approximately 21 days.
Can family members be included in the Hungary Guest Investor Program application?
Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents in the application.
What are the residence requirements for the Hungary residence by investment program?
There are no specific residence requirements, but applicants must maintain their investment for a certain period.
What documents are required for the Hungary Guest Investor Program application?
Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.
Is it possible to obtain Hungarian citizenship through the residence by investment program?
Yes, after maintaining residence for eight years, investors may be eligible to apply for Hungarian citizenship.
What is the process for applying to the Hungary Guest Investor Program?
Applicants must choose a qualifying investment, submit the application with the necessary documents, and undergo a due diligence process.
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