In 2024, Hungary launched a new Golden Visa, offering an attractive and straightforward pathway to European Union residency. With a minimum investment of €250,000, this route opens opportunities for investors and their families to reside in the heart of Europe, enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, and benefit from long-term relocation options.
This article is brought to you by Immigrant Invest, a licensed agent for investment programmes in the European Union and the Caribbean.
Ferenc Tihánszky, Director of the Hungarian office and Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, shares key insights into the program’s benefits, requirements, and long-term potential for investors.
What is the Hungary Golden Visa?
The Hungary golden visa is officially known as the Residence Permit for Guest Investors. It was introduced in 2024 to attract foreign capital into strategically important sectors of the Hungarian economy.
Unlike many other EU residency by investment programmes, Hungary’s offering is relatively low-cost and efficient. The minimum investment threshold is €250,000, and the residence permit is initially valid for 10 years, renewable for another 10.
Benefits of the Hungary Golden Visa
Investors who choose Hungary gain access to multiple lifestyle, business, and mobility benefits:
Hungary also offers a high quality of life, EU-standard infrastructure, a central European location, and affordable living costs.
Investment Options
The Hungary Guest Investor Program offers two qualifying investment routes:
The most accessible and currently popular route is investing in a qualified real estate fund.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Hungary Golden Visa, the investor must meet the following requirements:
Applicants must also show that they are capable of supporting themselves and their family members during their stay in Hungary.
Who Can Be Included in the Application?
The Golden Visa allows investors to include the following family members:
All family members receive the same long-term residence permit and can enjoy the benefits of living in Hungary and travelling within the Schengen Area.
Application Process
The application process for the Hungary Golden Visa is streamlined and consists of several clear steps:
Apply for the Guest Investor Residence Permit. The permit is issued for 10 years and renewable for an additional 10.
The full process can take approximately three months, provided all documents are in order and the investment is completed promptly.
Hungarian Permanent Residency and Citizenship Pathways
Although the Guest Investor Residence Permit is long-term, it is not equal to permanent residency or citizenship.
Permanent Residence: Investors may apply for permanent residency after living in Hungary continuously for 3 years.
Citizenship: Citizenship is available after 11 years of residence and successful completion of a basic Hungarian language exam.
Notably, Hungary does not require investors to live in the country to maintain their residence permit. However, those seeking citizenship must reside in Hungary on a permanent basis and meet integration criteria, such as language skills and cultural knowledge.
Conclusion
Hungary’s Golden visa in Europe sets itself apart with its competitive investment threshold, long-term residence validity, and strategic location in the European Union. It is ideal for investors seeking a flexible, reliable Plan B or a future EU citizenship route for themselves and their families.
With €250,000, investors can secure a future in Europe, access the Schengen Area, and unlock a path to permanent residency and citizenship.
