Hungary Golden Visa
Discover the Hungary Golden Visa Program: Your Gateway to European Residency
What is the Hungary Golden Visa?
The Hungary Golden Visa program, officially known as Guest Investor Program (GIP), offers residency by investment to non-EU and non-EEA citizens. This program is one of the most efficient and affordable options for securing long-term residency in Europe. Unlike other programs, this long-term residency is valid for ten years with the option to renew and it also allows investors to finalize their investment after their residency application has been approved.
The Hungary Golden Visa Program was reintroduced in July 2024, to attract foreign investment into the Hungarian economy. Designed to benefit foreign investors and their families by having acces to the European Union (EU) and Schengen Area
Hungary Golden Visa Key Benefits
1. Visa free travel
Hungary is part of the Schengen Area and the European Union, which allows residents to travel visa-free to 177 countries, for up to 90 days within every 180 days. This allows for seamless travel for business, leisure, or medical purposes across Europe.
2. Flexibility
There is no minimum stay requirement, allowing investors to enter and exit the country freely.
3. Low cost of living
Hungary offers a much lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, with monthly expenses for a family of four averaging just €2,000. Enjoy affordable luxury and a high standard of living at a fraction of the cost of other European capitals.
4. Long-term residency validity
Validity for up to 10 years, with an option to renew for another decade, which far exceeds the duration of other European Golden Visa programs.
5. Top-Notch Education and Healthcare System
The QS World University Rankings 2025 places 11 Hungarian universities in the top 1,500 globally, with graduates eligible to work across the EU, USA, and UK. Ensure your familiy's well-being with Hungary's top-notch healthcare, renowned for thermal springs, quality dentistry, and esthetic surgery—all at 40–70% lower costs than in the UK and Scandinavia.
6. Favourable Tax Regime
Hungary is one of the countries with the lowest tax rates in Europe. The income tax rate is 15%, and the corporate tax rate is 9%. The stamp duty on property purchase is 4%
7. Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Investors can obtain permanent residence after living in Hungary for at least 3 years. Citizenship eligibility follows after 8 years, granting a Hungarian passport and all the rights of citizenship.
- 8. Investing After Visa Approval in a Thriving Real Estate Market
The Hungarian Golden Visa program allows you to secure a visa before committing funds, ensuring your investment is safe. Hungary's booming real estate market, offers exceptional opportunities for global investors. With competitive property prices and high rental yields. Open to all nationalities, this program provides a reliable pathway to economic growth and financial success.
Investment Options
Applicants can choose from various investment options:
- A Minimum Investment of €250,000 in Real Estate Funds: These are investment certificates which must be issued by licensed real estate funds registered by the Hungarian National Bank.
- A Donation of €1,000,000 to an Institute of Higher Learning: This contribution will be utilized towards supporting education, scientific research, as well as artistic and creative endeavors. The institution chosen must be upheld by a foundation dedicated to public interest.
Family Inclusion
- Consultancy Fee: €60,000 which covers up to 5 family members. Includes the main applicant, spouse, and children under 18.
- Additional Family Members: For families larger than 5 members, an additional fee of €10,000 applies per person for up to 8 family members
- Who is entitled to family reunification? Spouse, Children under 18, Guest investor's and spouse's dependant parent
Timeline
1 day
Initial Consultation And preliminary due diligence check
Discuss your needs and identify risks of application rejection.2-3 weeks
Document Preparation
GoldenArk's lawyers assist with gathering all necessary documents, including translation and notarization.4-8 weeks
Application Processing and Approval
Authorities review your application and conduct thorough background checks.1 week
Obtaining the Guest Investor visa
A visa valid for up to 6 months is issued. Within this period, the investor shall travel to Hungary to fulfill investment conditions.1-2 weeks
Finalizing Investment
The applicant shall complete their chosen investment within 3 months of entering Hungary.21 days
Receiving the Residence Permit
Receive your residency permit and begin your new journey in Hungary.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Hungary Investor Visa, investors must meet the following criteria:
- Be a non-EU and non-EEA citizen over the age of 18;
- Successfully undergo the due diligence and background verification checks performed at various stages in the process;
- Demonstrate that they have sufficient means to support themselves and their family members and to be able and willing to disclose the source of wealth;
- Receive approval by the competent authorities to buy residential property.
- Clean criminal record is mandatory
Documents Required for the application
- Completed booking form, completed and signed data sheet (from all applicants)
- Full copy of passport, including outer cover (from all applicants)
- One passport-size photo (from all applicants)
- Certified birth certificate with diplomatic authentication (from all applicants)
- Certified marriage certificate with diplomatic authentication
- Original police clearance certificate with diplomatic authentication from the country of habitual residence for the past six months (for the main applicant and spouse)
- Proof of the legal origin of funds for the investment.
- Proof of the availability of funds for the investment (Bank savings certificate)
- Signed and Dated Curriculum Vitae (to be signed by father or mother in case of applicants under 18; from all applicants)
Why Choose Hungary?
- Ranked amongst the top 30 most frequently visited countries, Hungary’s allure lies in its inherent ease of living, rendering it an irresistibly appealing destination. A universal healthcare system, high quality education, reasonable costs of living, and high levels of safety make it an enticing choice for residence in the heart of Europe. Furthermore, additional benefits include:
- 10-year renewable residency.
- Efficient application process with a possibility to reduce the number of travels and perform necessary submissions overseas;
- Inclusion of dependent children and parents;
- Attractive real estate and business investment opportunities;
- Member of the Schengen zone, the European Union and NATO;
- Powerful and well-respected passport with visa-free travel to 177 countries.
How can goldenArk help you?
At GoldenArk,our support extends far beyond helping you secure your residence permit. We guide our clients through every step of their citizenship or residency investment journey, providing tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of international families. With a hands-on team of seasoned professionals, we bring extensive expertise in investment strategies, legal frameworks, and government regulations to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.
Our commitment to excellence and deep understanding of global residency programs make us your trusted partner in achieving your European investment and lifestyle goals.
FAQ
What are the main requirements for the Hungary Golden Visa?
- A minimum investment in one of the specified avenues.
- Proof of legal income to support the investment.
- Clean criminal record and valid health insurance.
Is there a path to citizenship through the Hungary Golden Visa?
The Hungary Golden Visa provides long-term residency but not direct citizenship. Permanent residency can be achieved after residing in Hungary for five years.
Can I include family members in my application?
Yes, the program includes options for family members, including spouses, children, and parents over a certain age.
Can I work in Hungary with a Golden Visa?
Yes, the Hungary Golden Visa allows you to live and work in Hungary, providing you with the flexibility to engage in business activities and employment.
What happens if my application is not approved?
In the unlikely event that your application is not approved, our team will work with you to understand the reasons and explore alternative solutions. The investment funds are refundable in such cases.
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