Hungary Residency by Investment Program
The Hungarian Residency by Investment Program offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain temporary residence through investment. Under the updated framework, the options include a minimum €250,000 investment into government-approved residential real-estate funds, or a €1,000,000 donation to a government-approved entity (rules and eligibility apply).
EU & Schengen member
Hungary became a member of the European Union in 2004 and subsequently joined the Schengen Area in 2007. The residency by investment route is designed for non-EU nationals seeking a structured, document-led pathway with clear investment options.
EU Member
Since 2004
Schengen
Since 2007
Processing
~ 4 months
Validity
10 years
Next Citizen is your trusted partner
Next Citizen supports individuals and families seeking a second residency through investment. We focus on clarity, compliance, and a step-by-step process—helping you understand options, prepare documents, and submit a strong file aligned with current requirements.
Structured case management
Clear checklists, timelines, and document guidance from start to approval.
Family planning
We help you structure the application to include eligible dependents under program rules.
~ 4 months (estimated; depends on due diligence and case specifics).
Visa-free access across the Schengen area (subject to Schengen rules and status validity).
Government-approved real estate fund investment or qualifying donation.
Minimum €250,000 (fund option) or €1,000,000 (donation option).
Spouse, children up to 18, and parents 65+. Children 18–26 and parents below 65 may be included if financially dependent (conditions apply).
HUNGARY RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT — EXPLAINED
Legal framework (summary)
The program is governed by Hungarian residency regulations, including amendments affecting the investment routes. The updated framework outlines the available options for obtaining a Hungarian residence permit through: €250,000 investment into government-approved residential real-estate funds, or a €1,000,000 donation to a government-approved entity (as applicable under current rules).
Important
Rules, eligibility, and procedures can change. Next Citizen confirms the latest requirements based on your nationality, family structure, and preferred route.
Quick & secure
A cost-effective EU residency route with a structured process and an estimated issuance timeline of around 4 months.
Risk-managed flow
Approval is typically issued before you complete the investment or contribution, supporting a risk-managed approach.
10-year validity
Residency cards are valid for 10 years and can be renewable for an additional 10 years (conditions apply).
No language test
No language test required under the program route described (subject to current rules).
Family benefits
Eligible family members can be included; adult children 18–26 may qualify if single, studying, and financially dependent.
Free mobility
Residency supports travel across Schengen countries (subject to Schengen rules and your valid status).
Gateway to Europe
Hungarian residency enables Schengen travel and can help build long-term European ties (rules apply).
Tax advantages (summary)
Corporate income tax is 9% and personal income tax is 15% (program materials summary; tax rules depend on your situation).
Quality of life
Hungary is considered one of the more affordable European countries, with access to healthcare and education.
Permanent residency pathway (general)
Eligible applicants may apply for permanent residency after 5 years if they meet residence and tax-resident conditions (e.g., living in the country for required days, such as 183 days in the last 2 years, as referenced in program materials). Next Citizen will confirm the latest legal criteria for your case.
Investors can obtain Hungarian residency by investing in a government-approved real estate fund, or donating to a government-approved entity. The main applicant must prove sufficient funds to cover the investment and living costs for themselves and their family.
Real Estate Fund
Acquisition of investment units from a government-approved real estate fund registered with the Hungarian National Bank. The investment must be held for at least 5 years and is non-interest bearing. After this period, if the investment remains in place, the fund may pay an indicated ROI (as described in the provided program text).
Investment amount: €250,000
Donation
Monetary contribution to a higher education institution maintained by a public interest trust foundation to support education, scientific research, or artistic creation (as applicable).
Donation amount: €1,000,000
Government fees (summary)
A government processing fee is required and may be refundable if the application is denied (conditions apply).
Main applicant + spouse + 4 minor children (below 18): €65,000
Per additional minor child (below 18): €3,000
Per additional adult child (18–26): €10,000
Per additional parent: €15,000
Visa validity notes
Applicants are granted a 10-year visa (extendable for another 10 years). Adult children (18–26) receive a 3-year visa, renewable for an additional 3 years; during this period it may be converted to a long-term status (subject to rules).
Additional costs may apply (professional fees, certifications, courier, and disbursements). Contact Next Citizen for a detailed quotation.
Pre-screening & initial file
Start with intake, passport copy, and a bank statement demonstrating sufficient funds (example reference: €250,000 plus an additional amount per family member as applicable) to support investment and living costs. Successful pre-screening proceeds to the investor visa application stage.
Document pack & fees
Prepare required documents prior to the embassy appointment and complete relevant fees to secure the appointment (where applicable).
Embassy biometrics & submission
Attend the Hungarian Embassy appointment to submit the application in person and complete biometrics. An initial guest investor visa may be issued, enabling entry to Hungary to complete the investment (subject to rules).
Investment completion
Complete the investment within the required timeframe after submitting the application (e.g., fund transfer timeline may apply). Investment execution may require in-person steps in Hungary depending on the route.
Residency cards issuance
Residency approval and issuance occur after processing. The estimated time depends on due diligence and case specifics. Investment may typically be held for 5 years, after which exit/sale rules apply according to regulations.
Note: The above is a structured summary of the provided timeline. Next Citizen confirms exact steps and timelines per your case and latest procedure.
Age
Applicant must be at least 18 years old.
Good character
Clean criminal record and good reputation.
Health
Good health and provide a medical certificate (as applicable).
Investment
Make a qualifying investment through the approved options set by law (fund or donation route as applicable).
The following is a general guideline. Next Citizen prepares a personalized checklist based on a full assessment of each case.
Personal & family documentation
• Certified copy of passports held
• Proof of family relationship (birth certificates for applicants)
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Financial documentation
• Bank statement showing sufficient funds to cover the investment and living cost
• Example reference: balance showing at least €250,000 + additional amount per applicant (as applicable)
Applicant information
• CV for each applicant
• Power of Attorney (POA) for each applicant (as required)
• Data sheet forms for main applicant and family members (template provided)
• If residing outside country of citizenship: residence permit / proof of stay
Photos & criminal record
• Two passport-size photos per participant (45mm x 35mm)
• Evidence of no criminal convictions
Adult children 18+ / dependent parents (if included)
• Proof of economic dependency (and single status / school enrollment for adult children where applicable)
• Proof of dependency for parents below 65 years (if applicable)
Frequently asked questions
What is the Hungary residency by investment program?
It is a residency route for non-EU nationals to obtain European residency within an estimated 4 months through a minimum €250,000 investment into government-approved residential real-estate funds or a €1,000,000 donation to an approved entity (rules apply).
Are investors allowed to work in Hungary under this program?
The investor residency route itself may not automatically grant work rights. A separate work permit process may be required depending on your situation.
Who is eligible to be included in the application?
The main applicant must be 18+. Eligible dependents may include spouse, parents 65+ and children up to 18. Children 18–26 and parents below 65 may be included if financially dependent (conditions apply).
What investment options are available?
Government-approved real estate fund investment (minimum €250,000) or a qualifying donation (€1,000,000), subject to current law and approved entities.
Does Hungary allow dual citizenship?
Dual citizenship is generally permitted under Hungarian law; eligibility and your situation may vary. We can guide you based on your case and nationality.
What are my next steps?
Contact Next Citizen, share your profile and preferred route, and we will provide a tailored checklist, estimated timeline, and a detailed quotation.
Let’s discuss your Hungary investor residency
Confidential consultation
Share your profile, family members to include, and your preferred investment route (fund or donation). We’ll guide you through eligibility, required documents, and the step-by-step process.
What we’ll cover
Route selection, fees overview, document checklist, timeline, and next steps.
Response time
We aim to reply quickly during business hours.