Hungary Residency by Investment

Hungary offers a structured residency pathway through its Guest Investor Residence Permit framework, providing access to Europe and the Schengen Area. 

However, the program is currently inactive and not recommended, and applications are not being actively pursued until further notice. 

About the Program

Hungary remains an attractive European destination, offering a high quality of life, strong infrastructure, and access to the Schengen Area. 

The Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit was designed to attract foreign investment through structured financial contributions, providing long-term residency rights in the country. 

Important Notice

While Hungary previously introduced a formal residency by investment pathway, the program is currently stalled and presents potential risks. 

At this stage, it is not recommended to proceed with applications until further clarity and stability are established. 

Our advisory team continues to monitor developments and can guide clients toward more stable and active residency or citizenship programs globally. 

Key Details

Investment 
Minimum investment starting from 250,000 EUR 

Key Benefit 
The right to live and work in Hungary, with access to Europe’s Schengen Area 

Why Hungary

  • Central European location with strong regional connectivity  
  • Access to the Schengen Area  
  • High standard of living with competitive costs  
  • Well-developed infrastructure and transport systems  

Investment Options

Applicants may qualify through one of the following pathways: 

  1. Real Estate Investment Fund
  • Minimum investment of 250,000 EUR  
  • Investment in a regulated real estate fund approved by the National Bank of Hungary  

Conditions: 

  • At least 40% of the fund invested in Hungarian residential real estate  
  • Investment must be held for a minimum of 5 years  
  • Fund managers must be licensed and compliant with regulatory standards  

 

  1. Public Trust Donation
  • Minimum contribution of 1 million EUR  
  • Donation to a Hungarian higher education institution operated by a public trust  

Key Benefits

  • Residency in Hungary with Schengen access  
  • Right to live and work in the country  
  • No strict minimum stay requirement  
  • Inclusion of spouse and dependent children  
  • Long-term residency permits (up to 10 years, renewable)  

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must: 

  • Be non-EU nationals  
  • Hold a valid passport  
  • Provide a clean criminal record  
  • Demonstrate a legitimate source of funds  
  • Pass national security and background checks  

Application Process

The process includes: 

  • Application for a Guest Investor Visa  
  • Travel to Hungary upon approval  
  • Completion of the qualifying investment within 3 months  
  • Submission of residency application within 93 days of entry  
  • Government review and approval  

Upon approval: 

  • 10-year residency permit is granted  
  • Renewable for an additional 10 years, subject to maintaining the investment  

Residency Requirements

  • No strict minimum stay requirement  
  • Investment must be maintained for at least 5 years  

Pathway to Citizenship

Applicants may become eligible for Hungarian citizenship after: 

  • 5 years of uninterrupted residency for long-term status  
  • A total of 8 years of legal residency  
  • Passing a Hungarian cultural and language exam  

Required Documents

Applicants must provide: 

  • Valid passport  
  • Proof of investment  
  • Clean criminal record  
  • Supporting financial and legal documentation  

Important Notes

  • The program is currently inactive and not recommended  
  • Investment-based residency options may change depending on government policy  
  • Alternative European residency programs may offer more stable opportunities  

Start Your Application

While Hungary presents long-term potential, we recommend exploring more stable and active residency programs at this time.