Hungary
Residence by Investment Programme

Hungary Residence by Investment Program Overview

The Hungary Residence by Investment Program allows non-EU people to reside in Hungary by making a significant economic contribution. This program simplifies gaining residence, provides considerable tax breaks, and allows easy access to the Schengen Area, making it possible to travel throughout Europe. Participants have the option of investing in real estate or government bonds.
Minimum Investment
EUR 250,000
Donation
Processing Time
2+
Months
Minimum Investment
EUR 500,000+
Real Estate
Visa-Free Access
26+
Countries & Territories

Benefits of Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit

  • Visa-Free Schengen Travel: You can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, facilitating business and pleasure travel.
  • Pre-Investment Visa Approval: You can get a D visa (Guest Investor Visa) before you commit funds. This due diligence process minimizes the risk that your investment will be refused residency.
  • Family Inclusion: You can bring your spouse and kids under 18 to live in Hungary, one of the safest places in Europe.
  • Affordable Living Costs: You can enjoy Hungary’s low cost of living, with cheap groceries, entertainment, and real estate, especially in Budapest, where property prices are super competitive.
  • European Banking Access: You can access the European Banking System or open bank accounts and deposit money in local and international banks with minimal documentation, usually just a passport and residence permit.
  • Employment and Business Opportunities: Hungary Residence permit holders and their family can work, establish companies, and represent corporate executives, providing access to various career opportunities.
  • High-Quality Healthcare and Education: Hungarian universities rank among the best in the world, and Hungary’s health tourism is recognized for its affordability as well as its excellence.
  • Tax Optimization: You can benefit from Hungary’s low taxes, with just 15% personal income tax, 9% corporate tax, and only 4% stamp duty on property purchases.

Requirements of the Hungary Residence by Investment

To qualify for residence, you must:

  • Not be subject to any Schengen Information System alerts, removal orders, or entry bans.
  • Not pose a threat to public order, security, or national security.

Investment Options of the Hungary Residence by Investment

To qualify for the Hungary residence program, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

Option 1. Real Estate Fund Investment:
Invest EUR 250,000 in certificates issued by a real estate fund registered with the National Bank of Hungary.

Option 2. Residential Real Estate Investment:
Invest EUR 500,000 directly in Hungarian residential property, ensuring that the property is free from any encumbrances or claims.

Option 3. Educational Donation:
Donate EUR 1 million to a recognized institution of higher learning, aimed at supporting educational, scientific, artistic, or creative initiatives managed by a public interest trust foundation performing a public task.

Procedures & Time Frame of the Hungry Guest Investor Residence Permit

Emirates Advisory conducts a thorough preliminary due diligence examination to identify and manage any risks associated with your application. This assessment is reviewed by Certified Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering Officials who specialize in cross-jurisdictional due diligence. This preliminary check is fully confidential and secure.

To submit the Guest Investor Visa application, our legal team will provide you with a detailed list of required documents. To streamline the process, we assist in preparing these documents, translating them, and notarizing copies. Once you receive the Guest Investor Visa (valid for up to six months) you will need to travel to Hungary.

Within this timeframe, you must meet the investment requirements and submit your residence permit application.

After fulfilling the investment conditions, you can obtain your residence permit from the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing or apply online. Once you submit your biometric data and required documentation to the migration office, you should receive your residence permit card within 21 days. This permit is valid for ten years and can be renewed as long as the investment criteria are met. If you sell your property or its value falls below €500,000, you must make additional investments to remain compliant.

The entire application process takes approximately 21 working days.

Citizenship

An investor who meets the legal requirement of residing in Hungary for three years before applying can become eligible for permanent residence. When applying after January 1, 2025, applicants must complete a written cultural exam in Hungarian as part of the application process.

Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit FAQ's

Can I get residency by buying a residential property?

Yes, investors can acquire a residence permit in Hungary by purchasing a home valued at a minimum of €500,000. The option will be available from January 1, 2025.

However, Additional investment options involve contributing to institutions and acquiring investment certificates from real estate funds.

When will I get my investment back?

In order to secure residency status for the initial decade, the investor is required to make a commitment to a minimum investment period of 5 years. However, residency renewal is possible after 10 years, which will be determined by the presence of the required investment.

What is the period required to obtain a Hungarian residence permit?

Citizenship in Hungary typically comes after obtaining permanent residence, which requires living in the country for at least 8 years. However, there may be certain exceptions for Hungarian minor children or spouses. It is still necessary to pass a Hungarian cultural exam.

What is the total cost of obtaining a Hungarian residence permit by investment?

The minimum investment required for a Hungary residence permit is €250,000, and it varies based on the option you choose:

  • Investment in local real estate funds: €250,000 or more. 
  • Property purchase: €500,000 or more.
  • Donation to an institution: €1,000,000 or more.

Applicants are required to pay administrative, government, and legal services fees in addition to the investment amount.

Do I have to stay in Hungary to qualify for the residence program?

Hungary has no minimum length of stay to preserve the guest investor residence status. However, if you anticipate obtaining permanent residency and citizenship, you must meet the necessary days of living criteria.

Does Hungary allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Dual Citizenship is permitted under Hungarian Law.

Can I travel to Europe with a Hungry residence permit?

Yes, with a Hungarian residence permit, you can travel visa-free to any Schengen country and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, as Hungary is a Schengen Area member.

Can I work or conduct business in the UK with a Hungarian residence permit?

As a Hungarian resident, the Hungary resident permit allows you to work and conduct business in the EU countries. However,  you cannot work in the United Kingdom. To do so, you must have a UK work permit.

Overview of Hungary

Hungary is situated in the heart of Europe, is a country that boasts a wealth of cultural heritage and stunning architectural wonders. It showcases various landscapes, from the expansive Great Plains to charming lakes and hills. It provides a captivating mix of natural splendour and cosmopolitan allure.

    • Population: 9.7 million
    • Languages: Hungarian, with English and German widely spoken
    • Economy: Diverse and thriving economic landscape with a focus on manufacturing and agriculture
    • Currency: Hungarian forint

Hungary’s economy is stable and growing, with a robust industrial base, especially in the automotive and technology sectors. The country is compelling for investment due to its robust marketplace, skilled workforce, and beneficial tax policies.

Budapest The Ferenc Liszt International Airport provides convenient access to many international destinations, making travel hassle-free. The country’s central location in Europe makes it a prime destination for business and leisure travellers, offering excellent connectivity to the rest of the world.

Residing in Hungary provides opportunities to tap into EU markets, enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, and take advantage of a favorable tax system. The country’s strategic location, excellent healthcare, and vibrant cultural scene make it desirable for entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals.

Contact Us Today!

If you have any inquiries or would like a comprehensive breakdown of the precise costs for your family, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are eager to assist you.