The Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit is designed for third-country nationals whose investment in Hungary is considered to be in the national economic interest.
According to Hungary’s official immigration authority, eligible investments currently include either an investment in a Hungarian real estate investment fund or a qualifying donation to a higher education institution maintained by a public interest trust foundation. This route is commonly referred to as the Hungary Golden Visa or Hungary Residency by Investment.
Minimum Investment: EUR 250,000
Applicants may qualify by acquiring investment fund shares of at least EUR 250,000 issued by a real estate fund registered by the Hungarian National Bank. This is currently the lower-threshold investment route under the Guest Investor Residence Permit framework.
This option may be suitable for applicants who prefer a structured investment route through a regulated fund rather than purchasing property directly.
Minimum Contribution: EUR 1,000,000
Applicants may also qualify by making a financial donation of at least EUR 1,000,000 for educational, scientific research, or artistic creation purposes to a higher education institution maintained by a public trust with a public-service mission.
This option is generally more suitable for applicants with philanthropic, academic, or institutional objectives.
Direct property purchase is not currently listed by the official immigration authority as an eligible Guest Investor Residence Permit investment option. The active official routes are the real estate investment fund route and the qualifying higher education donation route.
The Hungary White Card is a residency option for digital nomads and remote workers. It is intended for third-country nationals who work remotely for a company outside Hungary or manage a business outside Hungary, while living in Hungary. The official immigration authority states that the White Card is not granted to applicants who pursue gainful activity in Hungary or hold a share in a Hungarian company.
Designed for remote workers and digital professionals
Applicant must work for a foreign employer or foreign business
Local Hungarian employment is not allowed under this permit
Suitable for freelancers, consultants, tech professionals, online business owners, and remote employees
Generally issued for a limited period and may be extendable depending on eligibility
Market and professional guidance commonly refer to a minimum income requirement of around EUR 3,000 per month, supported by documentation such as bank statements and employment or company records.
Hungary may also be suitable for applicants who wish to establish or operate a business in Europe. Business-related residency usually requires a clear business purpose, company structure, financial capacity, and supporting documentation.
Suitable for entrepreneurs and business owners
Requires a genuine business plan and legal business setup
May support long-term presence in Hungary
Can be useful for applicants who want to expand their commercial activity into the European market
Hungary may also be suitable for applicants who wish to establish or operate a business in Europe. Business-related residency usually requires a clear business purpose, company structure, financial capacity, and supporting documentation.
Suitable for entrepreneurs and business owners
Requires a genuine business plan and legal business setup
May support long-term presence in Hungary
Can be useful for applicants who want to expand their commercial activity into the European market
This option may be suitable for:
Entrepreneurs
Company owners
Investors planning active business operations
Applicants seeking European market access
Professionals who want to relocate business activities to Hungary
Applicants may need to provide:
Company registration documents
Business plan
Proof of funds
Office or business address
Tax and accounting documentation
Proof that the business activity is genuine and sustainable
Employment-based residency may be available for applicants who have a valid job offer from a Hungarian employer. This route usually depends on the employer, the job position, labor requirements, and the applicant’s qualifications.
Requires a Hungarian employer or valid employment offer
Suitable for skilled workers and professionals
Application is connected to the employment relationship
Family reunification may be possible depending on the case
This option may be suitable for:
Skilled workers
Professionals with a Hungarian job offer
Applicants relocating for employment
Technical or specialized workers
Hungary is also a popular destination for international students. A study-based residence permit may be suitable for applicants accepted into a recognized Hungarian educational institution.
Suitable for students accepted by a Hungarian university or institution
Requires proof of admission
Requires financial capacity and accommodation evidence
Can be a strong option for young applicants seeking a European education pathway
This option may be suitable for:
University students
Language course applicants
Postgraduate applicants
Young applicants seeking a European academic route
Hungary also has long-term residence categories, including the National Residence Card, which may allow qualifying third-country nationals to reside in Hungary for an indefinite period. The official immigration authority describes the National Residence Card as a residence status for third-country nationals who meet the relevant conditions.
Applicants for long-term residence should also note that Hungary introduced a cultural knowledge requirement for certain permanent residence applications from 2025.
Permanent or long-term residence is not usually an immediate first-step option. It generally depends on previous lawful residence, integration, documentation, and legal eligibility.
At TBI Residency Services, we provide a complete consultation and case-management service for applicants interested in Hungary residency options.
Initial eligibility assessment
Selection of the most suitable residency route
Document checklist and case preparation
Coordination with legal and professional partners
Application strategy and submission guidance
Family application planning
Investment route coordination, where applicable
Follow-up support during the application process
Whether you are looking for a European investment residency, a digital nomad option, a business route, or a long-term family solution, Hungary may offer a suitable pathway based on your profile.
Contact TBI Residency Services today for a professional consultation and discover the most suitable Hungary residency option for you and your family.
For inquiries, please send us a message.