Europe
Hungary is a Schengen member state offering one of Europe's most affordable lifestyles for digital nomads. The country features the White Card digital nomad visa with a EUR 3,000 monthly income requirement, excellent internet infrastructure averaging 130+ Mbps fixed broadband, and Europe's lowest corporate tax rate at 9%. Budapest has become a popular hub for remote workers with its low cost of living, thermal baths, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The flat 15% personal income tax rate and tax-free status for stays under 183 days make Hungary particularly attractive for location-independent professionals.
Visa requirements vary by nationality
Citizens from visa-exempt countries can enter Hungary and the entire Schengen Area without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period. This applies to nationals from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and 50+ other countries.
The Hungarian White Card (Fehér Kártya) is a residence permit specifically designed for remote workers and digital nomads. It allows non-EU nationals working for foreign companies to live in Hungary for up to 2 years while enjoying visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.
Minimum $3,000/per_month
Alternative: Bank statements showing EUR 10,000+ savings can supplement income proof. Income must be from sources outside Hungary and demonstrated through 6 months of bank statements or valid employment contract.
Extension: 365 days (max 1x)
Cost: €60
Process: Extension must be submitted via Enter Hungary online portal at least 90 days before current permit expires. Applicant must have resided in Hungary for at least 90 days within any 180-day period prior to extension.
Renewal: After 2 years (initial + 1 extension), must leave Hungary and reapply. White Card does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship. To obtain permanent residency, must switch to different visa category (employment, investment, family).
Hungary's Golden Visa program, relaunched in July 2024, offers 10-year residence permits to non-EU investors who contribute at least EUR 250,000 to a government-approved real estate fund or donate EUR 1 million to a Hungarian higher education institution.
Minimum $250,000/per_year
Alternative: Two investment options: EUR 250,000 in approved real estate fund (40% must be Hungarian residential property) OR EUR 1,000,000 donation to Hungarian higher education institution. Fund investment held for minimum 5 years.
Extension: 3650 days (max 1x)
Cost: Free
Process: 10-year permit can be renewed for another 10 years if investment is maintained.
Renewal: After 3 years of continuous residence (183 days/year), can apply for permanent residence. After 8 years of permanent residence, can apply for Hungarian citizenship (requires Hungarian language proficiency and cultural knowledge test).
Required for citizens of countries without visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits in Hungary and all 29 Schengen countries.
The Hungarian national visa allows non-EU citizens to stay in Hungary for purposes exceeding 90 days, including employment, study, family reunification, or business activities. It serves as the entry visa before obtaining a residence permit.
Issued to non-EU nationals for various purposes including employment, self-employment, study, family reunification, or medical treatment. Valid for 1-2 years and renewable. Required for stays exceeding 90 days.
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU professionals. It allows holders to work and live in Hungary with the option to move to other EU countries after 18 months.
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2024