Hungary is a mesmerizing and inviting place that is becoming popular by the day! With the increase of remote workers all over the world, the digital nomad lifestyle is becoming much more common. Places like Hungary allow people a variety of options and it also encourages them to take daring steps.
If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to learn some basic essentials about this country. This ultimate guide covers everything regarding visa policies.
Does Hungary have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Luckily for remote workers, the government introduced a Hungarian digital nomad visa in 2021. This new Hungary digital nomad visa is commonly known as the “Hungarian white card” (a residence permit for digital nomads). This visa remains valid for 1 year and allows applicants to extend their stay with easy accommodating renewal policies. The application process is pretty standard and easy as well.
Hungary has an easy visa policy overall but it’s different for everyone, based on their nationality and citizenship. For instance, EU citizens and Schengen area citizens can enter the country visa-free while other nationalities have to go through certain steps.
Who can Apply for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?
On a general note, this visa is best suited for business owners, travelers, tourists, remote workers, or people who can conduct their work digitally. Other than that, here are some general requirements that define the eligibility criteria.
- Remote workers, employed by foreign companies
- People who are not associated with Hungarian companies
- Individuals who own a business outside of Hungary
- Meet the minimum income requirement (discussed below)
- Anyone who can conduct their work via digital technology while remaining in Hungary
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Hungary?
It is not all that difficult to apply for a Hungary digital nomad visa. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the procedure.
- Check eligibility requirements
First and foremost, you need to find out if you are even eligible for the Hungary digital nomad visa. You can do so by going to the official website. You’ll find a video explaining the application process in detail.
- Gather the documents
Now is the time to gather all the documents required for a Hungary’s Digital Nomad Visa. Make sure to double-check them before submitting. The required documents are listed below.
- Fill out the application form
This step includes a lot of intricate details. Hence, the necessary amount of attention should be given. The form will appear amidst the process while you’re applying online.
- Submitting the application
The Hungarian government and authorities allow you to submit applications through accessible means. You can submit it online on the official website or go to the nearest Hungarian consulate. It’ll reach adequate authorities. Following that, you will receive confirmation and your caseworker will contact you for further details.
- Pay the fee
Once you have applied, you’ll have to pay the visa application fee of 110 euros. You can pay via credit card. Cash or bank account transfers will be eligible as well.
- Wait for feedback
Now that you have done everything on your part, all you need to do is wait. The relevant Hungarian authorities will process your application at their earliest convenience and send feedback. Upon receiving approval, you can enter Hungary.
If you are already in Hungary, you can apply by going to the Enter Hungary platform website and doing the process electronically.
How Much Does it Cost?
The visa application process for a Hungary digital nomad visa is quite affordable. The overall visa fee varies on the certain method you go with but the standard application fee is €110.
Apart from that, you’ll have to pay €100 (39,000 HUF) for a residence permit (applying in person) in Hungary or €60 for a Residence permit (via the enter Hungary platform).
Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
There are some requirements that you must fulfill to get this visa.
Necessary documents
You must have the following documents with you when you submit your visa application.
- Filled out the application form
- Completed Appendix 9.18
- Valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for the entire duration of your intended stay and 3 months beyond that
- Two photos: passport-sized and recent
- Valid health insurance: international medical insurance that will remain valid and cover all medical expenses for the duration of your entire stay.
- Proof of sufficient means: you can submit proof in the form of payslips or bank statements
- Proof of accommodation: you must provide evidence about your residence
- Freelancing proof: applicants must be able to prove that if they are not employed in a foreign country, they are either self-employed or they are working as freelancers. You can prove this by submitting adequate business documentation
- Proof of remote work: Applicants must submit proof that they are currently working for a business based outside of Hungary. This could be proved by submitting an employment contract, Pay Slips, or any other documents
- Business ownership: proof of a legitimate business based outside of Hungary
Financial requirements
Luckily for remote workers, the minimum monthly income requirement for the Hungary digital nomad visa is extremely low. As long as you can prove that your monthly income is above $3000, you are deemed eligible to apply for this visa. You must portray stability by showing that you have earned as much in the last 6 months.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?
Digital nomads and remote workers would be happy to learn that the visa processing time for a Hungary digital nomad visa doesn’t take a long time. Your application will be processed within 21 days of submission and you’ll receive an answer as soon as possible.
This is the standard time. However, it can change depending on the competency of the station or diplomatic mission in charge. It can also extend if your case worker or counselor finds that they need more details or documents. The National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP) may contact you for additional documents.
Make sure to send an accurate application so it can be processed quickly.
Benefits of the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa
Safety
Hungary is one of the safest countries in Europe. Since safety is one of the main concerns for every digital nomad (especially solo travelers), you’d be happy to learn that the crime rate is extremely low in this country.
Hungary is safe for women and you can even walk alone at night. Most areas are lit and crowded after sundown which means you are free to travel comfortably.
Criminal activities are rare but petty crimes such as scamming and pocket-picking are not unheard of. Tourist crime is even rarer but minor thefts are common in crowded places. As a foreigner in a new country, you are recommended to stay vigilant at all times.
Rich culture and natural beauty
Hungary has turned into a trendy country over the recent years, most popular for its “ruin pubs” culture. It has a huge nightlife scene that is guaranteed to keep you entertained. Other than that, the Jewish community, namely the Jewish quarter has become an area of intrigue for several tourists and travelers. You can expect to find contemporary restaurants, cute coffee shops, and trendy bars. Furthermore, the mesmerizing combination of new and old architecture is something that astonishes everyone.
Hungary is also a great place for nature lovers. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and dense forests, the country offers you a chance to explore wildlife and connect with nature. There are also a bunch of outdoor activities that you can participate in.
Internet connectivity
Internet connection is one of the main concerns of any digital nomad. Remote workers would be glad to know that Hungary offers fast and reliable internet. In fact, Hungary’s internet speed is ranked in the top 10 countries of the world. You will find a decent wifi speed at most of the cafes, restaurants, libraries, and public places in Hungary.
You can also get local SIM cards upon arrival and buy budget-friendly data packages. DIGIMobil, Vodafone, and Yettel are the most commonly used and available in the country. You can easily get these at the airport or convenience stores.
Good food
As for the food, Hungary is known for specialties such as Goulash. The local cuisine is a concoction of Turkish, Balkan, and Hungarian recipes that are rich in flavor and highly traditional. Moreover, this country has mouth-watering street food and a variety of tasty spices. There is also an abundance of cafes and restaurants in every country.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Hungary?
Hungary has a flexible tax policy that varies based on specific circumstances. Whether you are a tax resident or not is defined by the amount of time you spend in the country.
In simple words, anyone who spends more than 183 days will be subject to Hungarian local taxes. After that period, you’ll have to pay taxes ranging from 15% to 40%.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Hungary
Hungary’s digital nomad visa (the white card) is originally designed to last for a maximum period of 2 years. The one-year time frame is granted initially with the possibility of renewal for one additional year, adding up to 2 years in total.
However, you can re-apply and extend the term as long as you continue to meet the visa requirements. Once the original one year and extended one year have passed, you’ll need to leave the country and re-apply from scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some other visa options in Hungary?
Apart from the Hungary digital nomad visa, some other good options include a tourist visa, a residence permit for employment, a Hungary relative visa, a Hungarian card, and a type D visa.
Can EU citizens enter Hungary without a visa?
Since Hungary is a part of the European Union and Schengen agreement, those in possession of an EU passport are allowed to enter and leave Hungary without any restrictions. Third-country nationals and non-EU citizens will have to explore other options.
When is the best time to visit Hungary?
The best time to visit Hungary is during the shoulder seasons (fall and spring) when the weather is pleasant and tourist inflow is low. This is the best way to avoid big crowds and explore popular destinations.
Can you apply for a Hungary white card/residence permit while you are in the country?
Yes, applicants who are already in Hungary can go to the enter Hungary platform and apply for a white card visa.
What is the best place in Hungary for digital nomads?
Budapest is one of the most dynamic cities in Europe that offers an affordable cost of living and a high quality of life. It is one of the best places in Hungary because of its beauty and historical importance.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Hungary is a great place to live if you are willing to look past some of its flaws. As a country that is still recovering from communist ruins, it’s developing at an astonishing rate. You’ll find it easy to make friends with like-minded people and conduct business professionally.
If this beautiful country has convinced you to pack your bags and move here then the Hungary digital nomad visa has got you covered. We hope this article provides you with the necessary information and clears your doubts. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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