Hungary Golden Visa 2025-2026: Complete Official Guide
Hungary Golden Visa 2025-2026: Complete Official Guide
€250K Investment • EU Residency • Cultural Exam Requirements • Path to Citizenship by Residency or Descent
📋 Complete Guide Contents
🇭🇺 Hungary Golden Visa Program 2025: Current Status
Hungary's Golden Visa program is fully operational in 2025. The Guest Investor Program launched in July 2024 and continues accepting applications with updated investment options and new cultural examination requirements.
Hungary's Guest Investor Program offers third-country nationals a pathway to 10-year EU residency through qualified investments starting at €250,000. This program provides access to the Schengen Zone, Hungarian healthcare, and eventually, a path to Hungarian citizenship by investment.
💰 Investment Options & Requirements
🎓 Cultural Exam Requirements (New 2025)
| Exam Component | Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 12 questions | Hungarian and European culture topics |
| Time Limit | 60 minutes | Written examination format |
| Language | Hungarian only | No English or other language options |
| Location | Budapest only | No remote or international testing available |
| Exemptions | Very limited | Only those switching from old permits may be exempt |
🏛️ Guest Investor Program Structure
The Hungary Guest Investor Program operates as Hungary's official residence-by-investment scheme:
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Initial Visa | D visa (long-term) issued at Hungarian embassy/consulate |
| Residence Permit | 10-year validity (renewable) |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse and dependent children automatically included |
| Investment Deadline | Must complete investment within 93 calendar days of first entry |
| Work Rights | Full employment authorization in Hungary |
🎯 Path to Hungarian Citizenship
Citizenship Requirements After Golden Visa:
- 8 years continuous residence in Hungary with valid permits
- Hungarian language proficiency (B2 level minimum)
- Cultural knowledge exam (additional to permanent residency exam)
- Clean criminal record throughout entire residence period
- Stable income and tax compliance demonstrated
- Integration into Hungarian society with local connections
You can also get Hungarian citizenship much quicker and cheaper if you can prove you have a Hungarian ancestor that lived in Hungary at any time and you speak/understand Hungarian well.
📋 Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Document Preparation (2-4 weeks)
Gather required documents: valid passport, official investment documents, proof of financial sufficiency, and health insurance policy. All documents must be apostilled and translated into Hungarian.
Step 2: Make Qualifying Investment (1-2 weeks)
Complete the €250,000 fund investment or €1M donation. Transfer includes €250,000 fund investment, €2,000 custody account opening fee, and €2,300 for 5-year maintenance.
Step 3: Submit D Visa Application (30-60 days)
Apply at Hungarian embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Approximate processing time is one month.
Step 4: Travel to Hungary & Apply for Residence Permit
Enter Hungary on D visa and submit residence permit application. Investment must be completed within 93 days of first entry.
Step 5: Receive 10-Year Residence Card (60-90 days)
Total processing time is approximately 4-6 months for the complete process from application to residence card.
🌟 Golden Visa Benefits & Timeline
Key Benefits:
- Visa-free access to the Schengen Area for 90 out of every 180 days
- 10-year residence permit validity (renewable)
- Hungary's 9% corporate tax rate (lowest in EU)
- 15% personal income tax opportunities
- Access to Hungarian healthcare and education
- Family members included automatically
- Path to eventual EU citizenship
Realistic Timeline:
- Document Preparation: 2-4 weeks
- Investment Completion: 1-2 weeks
- D Visa Processing: 30-60 days
- Residence Permit: 60-90 days after arrival
- Total Timeline: 5+ months from start to residence card
⏰ Total Investment Costs Breakdown
| Cost Category | Amount (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fund Investment | €250,000 | 5-year minimum holding period |
| Custody Account Setup | €2,000 | One-time opening fee |
| 5-Year Maintenance | €2,300 | Custody account maintenance |
| Government Fees | €1,500-€2,500 | Application and processing fees |
| Legal & Advisory | €10,000-€20,000 | Professional assistance recommended by optional |
| Document Preparation | €1,000-€2,000 | Translations, apostilles, certifications |
| Total Minimum | €266,800-€278,800 | Plus ongoing fund management fees |
Ready to Start Your Hungary Golden Visa Journey?
Hungary's Golden Visa offers one of Europe's most accessible residency-by-investment programs. With the right guidance, you can secure your 10-year EU residence permit and start building toward eventual citizenship.
Next Steps: Consult with a qualified immigration attorney who specializes in Hungarian residence permits to ensure your application meets all current requirements.