Moving to Hungary as a Foreigner: What to Know in 2025

Thinking of moving to Hungary? Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, vibrant cities, or affordable cost of living, Hungary is becoming an increasingly popular destination for foreign nationals.

But before you start packing your bags and heading to this stunning EU country, it’s essential to understand everything you can about moving to Hungary before the big move.

In this guide you will learn about:

• Who needs a visa to move to Hungary?
• Visa options for moving to Hungary
• Pros of moving to Hungary
• Moving to Hungary from different countries
• Getting a job in Hungary as an expat
• Moving to Hungary with pets
• The best places to move in Hungary as an expat
• Possible cons of moving to Hungary
• Is it worth moving to Hungary?

Who needs a visa to move to Hungary?

All non-EEA and non-EU citizens (third country nationals) are required to obtain a visa and Hungarian residence permit in order to move to Hungary. While EU/EEA citizens don’t require a visa, they are required to register their address with local authorities if they stay in Hungary for longer than 90 days.

If you’re planning to move to Hungary to study or work, you will need to obtain a study or work visa. This must be approved before you enter the country.

Visa Options for Moving to Hungary

Hungary Golden Visa

The Hungary Golden Visa, officially called the Guest Investor Program (GIP), offer non-EEA and Non-EU citizens a pathway to Hungarian residency. The Hungary Golden Visa program was predominantly implemented to attract foreign investment into the Hungarian economy.

By investing in Hungary through the Golden Visa program, investors have access to the Schengen Area and European Union, opening a world of financial and educational opportunities.

The Hungary Golden Visa residency permit is granted for ten years and can also be renewed indefinitely. You can obtain permanent residency after three years. But one of the biggest pros of investing in the program is that after eight continuous years of residence, applicants may qualify for Hungarian citizenship.

Investment Options for the Hungary Golden Visa

Foreign nationals seeking residency through Hungary’s investment program can choose from two options:

• Real estate investment fund: Applicants are required to invest €250,000 in a state-approved real estate investment fund. These funds focus on Hungarian real estate and offer a lower-cost alternative to direct property ownership. The investment must be maintained for at least five years to retain residency.
• Donation: Investors may opt to donate €1 million as a non-refundable contribution to a Hungarian higher education institution. Unlike other options, this direct donation has no holding period requirements.

Hungary Citizenship by Descent

Hungarian citizenship by descent offers those with Hungarian ancestry to obtain Hungarian citizenship through right of blood (jus sanguinis). This means, those that can provide substantial proof of their Hungarian lineage to Hungarian citizens may obtain full rights of citizenship.

However, it’s important to note that proving this lineage can be challenging, particularly if it is not a direct ancestor. For example, if one of your grandparents is Hungarian then a birth or marriage certificate will suffice, whereas a further ancestral link may require more in depth documentation.

Moving to Hungary as a Digital Nomad

If you’re thinking of moving to Hungary as a digital nomad, you’re in luck, the country offers a White Card (Digital Nomad Visa), permitting non-EEA and non-EU citizens to live in Hungary while working remotely.

The Hungary White Card permits foreign workers to live in Hungary while working remotely, if the applicant is earning a minimum of €3,000 per month to cover their costs.

The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa is available for one year, which can be extended for an additional year. This offers a fantastic opportunity for foreign nationals to gain experience of living in Hungary before making any permanent decisions.

Moving to Hungary to Study

Hungary has a stable education system, inviting foreign nationals to experience some of the country’s top universities. The Hungary study visa is the ideal option for those looking to study in Hungary and experience all this beautiful country has to offer.

Moving to Hungary to Work

Hungary offers a work residence permit that is available to foreign nationals that wish to move to Hungary to work. The applicant will need to provide proof of future employment, a contract, have a registered address in Hungary, proof of travel insurance, and proof of salary to ensure they have enough to live comfortably in Hungary.

Pros of Moving to Hungary

Cost of living

The cost of living in Hungary is significantly less expensive than other countries in the EU. This includes items such as food, housing, utilities, education, and healthcare, making moving to Hungary a popular option for retirees, expats, and digital nomads.

Strategic Location

Hungary is situated in central Europe, putting those moving to Hungary in a strategic location for business and travel.

Rich history

Hungary has a rich history waiting to be explored. From the incredible architectural landmarks and ancient thermal baths to the exquisite cuisine steeped in historic tradition, there is no shortage of things to explore and discover when you move to Hungary.

High Quality of Life

If you’re looking for a well-balanced lifestyle that includes safety, world class healthcare, and good public transportation, Hungary is the place to be. The international community in Hungary is growing significantly as more foreign nationals discover all Hungary has to offer.

Friendly locals

Hungarians are well known across the globe for being extremely friendly and welcoming to foreigners. This makes things a lot easier when moving to Hungary as you get to make friends and explore the hidden treasures with ease.

Growing expat community

As more residency options become available in Hungary, the number of foreign nationals choosing to call Hungary their home has grown significantly. This can help a lot when you move to Hungary as you can relate to others going through the same experiences, while sharing tips and tricks along the way to make living in the country easier.

Education opportunities

Hungary has a strong education system, offering a range of internationally recognized schools and universities. This may help put your mind at ease, knowing the country is committed to ensuring there are accessible education opportunities for all, including locals and foreign nationals.

Moving to Hungary from Different Countries

Before you pack your bags and move to Hungary, it’s essential to understand how things may differ from your home country to ensure you are prepared. Let’s take a look at what you can expect from moving to Hungary from different countries.

Moving to Hungary from UK

If you’re thinking about moving to Hungary from the UK, there are a few things to consider before making the big move, including:

• Culture: Hungary has a unique culture that is steeped in deep rooted traditions, including festivals, music, food, and socializing. When compared to the UK, Hungary is more formal, particularly when it comes to business dealings and social greetings.
• Language: The official language of Hungary is Hungarian, one of the most complex languages in the world. For those moving to Hungary, you may find English more widely spoken in popular tourist destinations like Budapest, However, for those moving to Hungary from the UK, learning the basics of Hungarian is highly recommended to ensure you can get around at the start.
• Healthcare: Both the UK and Hungary offer both public and private healthcare options. However, where they differ is in the cost of care. Most expats from the UK in Hungary take out private health insurance to ensure they can afford the best care. Comparatively, the cost of insurance and general cost of medical services in Hungary is significantly less than the UK.

Cost of living Hungary vs UK

One of the most important aspects to consider before moving to Hungary is the living costs. Here is a cost comparison between the cost of living between the UK and Hungary:

Moving to Hungary from US

Moving to Hungary from the US is a big commitment, meaning there are a few things to consider, including:

• Cost of living: The cost of living in Hungary is significantly cheaper than in the US. One of the biggest cost differences is in buying property, with Hungary offering a cost per square meter of €458 in the city center, while the same will cost €1,700 in the US.
• Slower pace of life: One of the most significant differences between living in Hungary vs the US is the pace of life. The US is much more fast paced than Hungary. While in the US you can find a slower pace in smaller towns, in Hungary, the emphasis is predominantly on leisure, even in the bigger cities. This includes taking more breaks, enjoying thermal baths, and taking the time for longer meals among loved ones.
• Culture: It’s important to remember when moving to another country that communication styles can differ. If you’re a US citizen looking to move to Hungary, be prepared for a different style of communication where the tone is more formal, and the volume is kept to a minimum out of respect for others.
• Bureaucracy: US citizens may need time to adjust to the level of bureaucracy. For example, opening a bank account in Hungary or obtaining a residency permit can take longer periods of time and come with a hefty amount of paperwork.

Cost of Living in Hungary vs the US

Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Hungary vs the US:

Getting a Job in Hungary as an Expat

Getting a job in Hungary is extremely competitive with few job opportunities, particularly for foreign nationals. However, there is hope with expanding job markets immerging in the country.

Popular job sectors in Hungary include IT, engineering, education, tourism, technology, and manufacturing. The country is on the lookout for highly skilled individuals from across the globe if they can add to the local economy.

It’s important to understand that there may be a disparity in salary if you’re used to salaries from the US and western European countries. However, a lower cost of living can even this out. Just as essential is knowing about the taxes in Hungary to ensure you understand what you are liable for.

Moving to Hungary with Pets

If you’re planning to move to Hungary from another country, then you may be looking to bring along your furry friends. Luckily, it is possible to move to Hungary with pets, but there are some important considerations, including:

• All animals must have a microchip for identification purposes.
• Anti-rabies vaccinations are essential and must be administered by a registered veterinarian along with a certificate.
• If coming from a flagged country, the pet must have a neutralizing antibody titration test at least 30 days after their vaccinations and no less than three months before moving.
• All pets are required to obtain a valid passport for pets before travelling.

Important to note: Any animal that does not meet the above criteria will need to be quarantined or may be sent back to the country of origin. Ensure you have everything in order before proceeding with moving with animals.

The Best Places to Move in Hungary as an Expat

Budapest

Budapest is the most sought-after location in Hungary. Known for its vibrant expat community, booming tourism, and high demand for rental properties.

Living in Budapest offers a high quality of life, with the opportunity to enjoy its stunning historical architecture and luxury properties. Additionally, Budapest’s relatively low cost of living compared to other major EU cities makes it an appealing investment destination.

Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton, often referred to as Hungary’s “inland sea,” is well known for is stunning natural beauty and thriving tourism sector. If you’re thinking of getting into the rental property market in Hungary, Lake Balaton is an excellent option.

Compared to other Hungarian cities like Budapest, Lake Balaton offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a resort-like feel throughout, ideal for those looking for a tranquil life in Hungary.

Debrecen

As the second largest city in Hungary, Debrecen offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still holding a major city feel. Known for its prestigious university, it is very popular among university students and young professionals.

Plus, if you’re looking for a more affordable entry into the property market, Debrecen is the ideal place to start looking.

Possible Cons of Moving to Hungary

Like with all countries, moving to Hungary may come with its own set of drawbacks. It’s essential to understand the good and bad before making such a big decision, so here are the most important cons to be aware of:

• Language barrier: Hungarian is known for being one of the hardest languages to learn in the world. If you’re coming from an English-speaking country, it is highly advisable to learn as much Hungarian as possible before your big move, but be prepared to put the work in.
• Job scarcity: If you’re planning to move to Hungary for work it’s important to understand that the job market is highly competitive and finding work may be difficult unless you are in a very specialized industry.
• Bureaucracy: The administrative system in Hungary may be much more bureaucratic than what you are used to if coming from countries in western Europe and the US. Try your best to be patient and find additional help where necessary if you don’t understand.

Is It Worth Moving to Hungary?

Absolutely! While there are some cons to moving to Hungary, the pros far outweigh any of the drawbacks. Moving to Hungary as a foreign national can bring an incredible experience for learning about another culture, its history, and its people.

Additionally, the cost of living in Hungary is significantly less than in other European countries, while still offering a central location for those looking to travel throughout Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Hungary

Is it a good idea to move to Hungary?

Yes! If you’re looking to change things up and move to a country that has a vibrant and welcoming culture and history on every corner, then Hungary is a fantastic option.

Additionally, you can enjoy a lower cost of living compared to other European countries, fantastic education system, and low-cost healthcare.

How can US citizens immigrate to Hungary?

There are a few options for US citizens looking to immigrate to Hungary including a study visa, work visa, digital nomad visa, citizenship by descent, and the Hungary Golden Visa. For those looking to visit, US citizens do not need a visa to enter Hungary for stays shorter than 90 days in a 180-day period.

Is it difficult to move to Hungary?

Not if you have everything you need for the type of visa you want to move to the country with. For example, if you want to move to Hungary on the Golden Visa you need to ensure you have the financial resources for your investment. Working with an immigration specialist throughout your visa application process is highly recommended to avoid any unwanted delays as the administrative process in Hungary is quite bureaucratic.

What to know before moving to Hungary from Canada?

Hungary is a proud country filled to the brim with culture, festivities, and social norms that may be different for those moving from Canada. English is spoken in Canada, while Hungarian is the primary language in Hungary. Canadian citizens will need a visa for stays longer than 90 days in a 180-day period. Private health insurance is highly recommended to ensure you can afford the best medical care in Hungary.

What are the visa requirements for moving to Hungary from the US?

There are different visa requirements for each visa type in Hungary. For example, the Hungary Golden Visa requires applicants to be non-EU/EEA citizens, 18 years of age, have a clean criminal record, a clean bill of health, and have the financial resources to support themselves.

How is the healthcare system in Hungary for expatriates?

The healthcare system in Hungary is generally very good, particularly the private healthcare system. Hungary offers fantastic health insurance options for much less money than the US and the UK, while still providing excellent services.

What should I know about the Hungarian language before moving?

Hungarian is a difficult language to understand and grasp, particularly for those who speak English. If you want to learn Hungarian, you may need additional lessons or tutoring.

How is the cost of living in Hungary compared to the UK?

The cost of living in Hungary is significantly less than in the UK. Generally, the cost of living in the UK is 83% higher than Hungary. Rent prices in the UK are 170% higher and groceries are 55% higher than in Hungary.

What are the steps for obtaining a Hungarian visa?

It depends on the type of visa but generally the steps include:

• Ensuring your eligibility
• Gathering relevant documents
• Submitting your application
• Attending the interview (if necessary)
• Awaiting approval
• Receiving your visa