A 10-year renewable EU residence permit through qualifying investment in real estate funds or property — stable Central European residency with Schengen travel rights.
Programme Overview
Hungary introduced its Guest Investor Programme (commonly referred to as a "golden visa") with the aim of attracting foreign direct investment while offering qualifying individuals a long-term, secure EU residency status. The programme grants a 10-year residence permit, renewable upon application.
Unlike most European residency programmes which grant 2 or 5-year initial permits, Hungary's offer of an immediate 10-year permit is a notable differentiator — providing greater stability and reducing the administrative burden of regular renewals.
Hungary is a Schengen area member state and EU member, providing permit holders with freedom of travel across all 27 Schengen countries. Budapest, the capital, has become an increasingly cosmopolitan city with strong business connections, an affordable cost of living relative to Western Europe, and a vibrant cultural scene.
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Free Eligibility AssessmentWhy Choose This Programme
Hungary offers an unusually long initial permit of 10 years — far longer than the 2–5 year permits typical of other European golden visa programmes.
There is no requirement to reside in Hungary or spend any minimum number of days there. You can maintain residency from abroad.
As an EU and Schengen member, Hungary's residence permit grants visa-free movement across all 27 Schengen countries.
Hungary's central position in Europe makes it a practical base for business and travel across the continent. Budapest offers excellent air connectivity.
Hungary is a full EU member state and its immigration framework operates within EU law, providing meaningful legal protections for investors.
Relative to Western Europe, Hungary offers a significantly lower cost of living, healthcare, and real estate — an advantage for those who do choose to spend time there.
How to Qualify
Important: Investment thresholds, qualifying routes, and programme conditions are subject to change by the relevant government authority without notice. Figures shown are approximate guidance only. Please contact us to verify the most current requirements before making any decisions.
Investment in an approved Hungarian real estate investment fund. Units must be held for a minimum of five years. This is the primary and most popular qualifying route.
✓ Potentially refundableFund units held for minimum 5 years before redemption
Direct purchase of residential real estate in Hungary. Property must be held for the duration of the residence permit. This route carries a higher threshold than the fund investment option.
✓ Potentially refundableProperty must be maintained throughout permit validity
Before You Apply
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss national aged 18 or over
Clean criminal record from country of residence and nationality
Investment funds must originate from a documented and lawful source
Valid travel document and health insurance
No outstanding public health risk
Application must be submitted through an authorised agent registered in Hungary
Our Advisory Pathway
We review your investment goals and advise on qualifying Hungarian real estate investment funds, helping you select one with an appropriate track record and risk profile.
We advise on engaging a locally registered authorised agent (required by Hungarian law) and assist with financial and identity documentation requirements.
We compile the full application package — investment commitment, identity documents, criminal record certificates, source of funds, and insurance.
We assist with the submission process and track the application through to permit issuance and any required biometric appointments.
Preparation
Document requirements vary by programme and individual circumstances. This list is indicative — we provide a tailored checklist after your initial consultation.
Common Questions
No. There is no minimum stay requirement. You are entitled to reside in Hungary but not required to do so in order to maintain your permit.
All investments carry some degree of risk. Real estate investment funds in Hungary are regulated by the Hungarian National Bank (MNB). We recommend reviewing the fund's prospectus and seeking independent financial advice before committing.
The permit can be renewed. After ten years of continuous qualifying residency (with physical presence), you may also be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Yes. Hungarian law requires Guest Investor Programme applications to be submitted through a registered, authorised agent based in Hungary. We work with qualified local partners to facilitate this.
Dependent children who are financially supported by the principal applicant can be included. The specific age and dependency rules should be confirmed at the time of application.
Unsure if you qualify for the Hungary programme?
Our advisors assess your eligibility within 24 hours — no fees, no commitment.