Hungary Visa Options for Digital Nomads: 2024 Guide

Budapest is known as the Heart of Europe for good reasons. Hungary's capital's architecture, food, and nature are worth the stay, and if you're a digital nomad, this could be your ideal European destination. You can walk in its beautiful streets, relax in thermal baths, or get to know other surrounding countries due to its central location in Europe. Don't miss out on this nomad jewel!

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the visa options available for digital nomads in Hungary, focusing on the White Card and the recently announced Golden Visa.

Our immigration expert, Tibor, recently hosted an insightful Ask Me Anything (AMA) session for the best private community of digital nomads on Facebook, Digital Nomads Around the World. This exclusive event allowed members to ask detailed questions about Hungary's visa options directly from a verified immigration expert.

In this article, we compiled the most frequently asked questions and answers about Hungary's visa options for digital nomads, offering practical advice for those looking to live and work remotely in this beautiful Central European country. 🏰

Have questions? Don't hesitate to contact Tibor by clicking below and on "Chat now." Fill in the form, and he'll get in touch with you.

Dr. Tibor Simon

Nomad Visa Help

Hungary Digital Nomad Visa or White Card Application

Full Service

$ 1100 - $ 1600

,

consultation call

$ 160 - $ 160

Hungary White Card: The Digital Nomad Visa

What is the Hungary White Card or Digital Nomad Visa?

The Hungary White Card, or Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa, is a residence permit designed for remote workers and digital nomads. It is one of the European digital nomad visas with the lowest income requirement of approximately 2000 USD monthly.

Great news, right?

What are the main benefits of obtaining a White Card or Digital Nomad Visa for Hungary?

Here are a few reasons why you should apply for Hungary's White Card or Hungary Digital Nomad Visa:

• Legal residency in Hungary for up to two years after renewal
• Ability to travel freely within the Schengen Area
• Opportunity to experience Hungary's rich culture and central European location
• Low-income requirement compared to other European digital nomad visas, which start at 3000 USD monthly

How long is the Hungary White Card or Digital Nomad Visa valid?

The Hungary White Card or Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed for an additional year, making the total possible stay up to two years in views like this:

Does the Hungary White Card or Digital Nomad Visa contribute toward permanent residency (PR)?

No, the duration of stay under the White Card doesn't count towards permanent residency. As Tibor explains, "A white card can be valid for 1+1 years. This duration is not part of the permanent residency."

What are the requirements for the Hungary White Card or Nomad Visa?

To be eligible for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Proof of remote work or online business (you need to have a legal contract)
• Minimum monthly income of around 2,000 EUR (one of the lowest in Europe for such visas)
• Valid health insurance
• Clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation in Hungary

How long is the application for the Hungary White Card or Nomad Visa?

The processing time for the White Card application is usually around 30 days, provided all required documents are submitted correctly.

Are there any language requirements for the Hungary White Card or Nomad Visa?

No, there are no language requirements for obtaining the White Card. As Tibor confirms, "No, there aren't any."

Can I bring my family with the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes. You can bring your family members (spouse and dependent children) with you. They will need to apply for their residence permits as dependents.

Taxation and Banking with the Hungary White Card or Digital Nomad Visa

How are taxes managed with the Hungary White Card?

Tibor explains, "If you stay in Hungary for more than 180 days, you must pay taxes according to the Hungarian tax system. The personal income tax is paid here on 15%."

So, if you become a tax resident in Hungary (by staying for more than 183 days in a calendar year), you'll be subject to Hungarian taxes on your worldwide income.

What is the process for opening a local bank account in Hungary as a digital nomad?

Opening a bank account in Hungary is relatively straightforward once you have a residence permit like the White Card.

These are some of the documents that bank institutions like OTP Bank, K&H Bank, and Erste Bank might request:

• Your passport
• Your White Card (residence permit)
• Proof of address in Hungary (rental agreement or utility bill)
• Tax identification number (which you'll receive when you register your address)

If I stay less than 180 days as a digital nomad, do I have to pay taxes in Hungary?

If you stay less than 180 days in a calendar year, you're not considered a tax resident in Hungary. In this case, you generally don't have to pay taxes on income from foreign sources.

However, it's always advisable to consult with a tax expert to understand your obligations.

Hungary Golden Visa in 2024

After two years, what options open up if someone wants to stay longer in Hungary?

Tibor advises: "The Hungary White Card cannot be extended beyond one extra year, but it is possible to apply for a residence permit for self-employment, employment, or study purposes. Moreover, no special permit is needed to establish a company."

It means that after your White Card expires, you have several options to continue your stay in Hungary:

1. Self-employment residence permit: If you've established a business in Hungary or work as a freelancer for Hungarian clients.

2. Employment residence permit: If you get a job with a Hungarian company.

3. Student residence permit: If you decide to pursue studies in Hungary.

4. Establish a company: You can set up a Hungarian company and apply for a residence permit as the company's manager.

In 2024, the government of Hungary announced the Golden Visa Program for investors who want to acquire residency in the country.

What is the Hungary Golden Visa?

The Hungary Golden Visa is a recently announced program that offers a practical option for those looking to get long-term residency in the country through investment.

This program is perfect for those who want to establish a long-term presence in Hungary.

What are the requirements for the Hungary Golden Visa?

Tibor explains, "You can obtain a 10-year residence permit if you can purchase a real estate investment bond worth €250,000. Starting from January 1, 2025, you can also achieve it by purchasing a property, but in that case, you need to buy real estate worth €500,000."

Can the Hungary Golden Visa lead to citizenship?

Yes, the Golden Visa can potentially lead to citizenship.

Tibor confirms: "You can apply for naturalization after eight years of residence in Hungary."

After holding your Golden Visa for eight years, you may qualify to apply for Hungarian citizenship. Note that this is subject to meeting other naturalization conditions, such as language level and integration.

What are the Hungarian taxation rates for Golden Visa holders, especially for foreign income?

Golden Visa holders are subject to the same tax rules as other residents if they become tax residents (staying more than 183 days in a calendar year).

Hungary's personal earnings tax rate is a flat 15% on worldwide revenue.

However, Hungary has a favorable tax treatment for foreign-sourced income. We encourage you to consult with a tax specialist for your situation.

Living in Hungary as a Digital Nomad

Where can digital nomads find accommodation in Hungary?

Popular platforms for finding accommodation in Hungary include:

• Ingatlan.com: A widely used Hungarian real estate website
• Alberlet.hu: Specializes in rental properties
• Airbnb: Good for short-term stays while you look for long-term options
• Facebook groups: There are several groups for digital nomads in Hungary where people often post housing opportunities

Many digital nomads start in Budapest, the capital city, which offers a vibrant expat community and numerous co-working spaces. Other popular cities include Debrecen, Szeged, and Pécs. 😍

What is the cost of living in Hungary for digital nomads?

Hungary offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries.

In Budapest, you can live comfortably on about €1,000-€1,500 per month, including rent, food, and entertainment. Costs are generally lower in other Hungarian cities.

How is the healthcare system in Hungary for digital nomads?

Hungary has a public healthcare system that residence permit holders can access. However, many visitors prefer private health insurance to access English-speaking doctors and certain facilities.

Remember, you must have health insurance for the White Card and Golden Visa.

What should digital nomads know about local customs and etiquette in Hungary?

Here are five tips you should consider when staying in Hungary:

1. Hungarians often greet friends with two kisses on the cheeks
2. It's customary to say "Egészségedre" (cheers) before drinking
3. Tipping is typical in restaurants, usually around 10%
4. Hungarians take their shoes off when entering homes
5. Learning a few basic Hungarian phrases is greatly loved by locals

Dr. Tibor Simon

Nomad Visa Help

Hungary Digital Nomad Visa or White Card Application

Full Service

$ 1100 - $ 1600

,

consultation call

$ 160 - $ 160

The visa options and regulations in Hungary offer good opportunities for digital nomads. If you want personalized advice, don't hesitate to contact Tibor: he's ready to help you reach your dreams of working remotely from any Hungarian city.

Hungary is a true central European charm with modern amenities. See you there? ♥️