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Hungary Golden Visa - Residency by Investment (RBI) Program 2026
A Complete Guide
Minimum: EUR 250,000 +
Processing Time: 6 months
Return to Golden Visa (Residency by Investment) Countries 2026
Introduction
The Hungary Golden Visa program, officially known as the Hungary Guest Investor Program (GIP), provides a unique opportunity for non-European Union (EU) and non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals to obtain long-term residency in Hungary through investment. Launched in 2024, the Hungary Investor Visa is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals seeking to secure a Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI), offering a range of benefits, including visa-free Schengen travel and potential tax advantages.
With various investment routes, including Hungary Real Estate Investment Fund Investment, Hungary Property Investment Fund Investment, and Hungary Donation, investors can gain residency while contributing to Hungary's economy. This guide covers all essential details, from financial requirements to procedures, ensuring a seamless application process for the Hungary Economic Residency program.
Country Profile
Hungary is a dynamic and culturally rich country located in Central Europe. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, it offers a strategic location for business and travel. The capital, Budapest, is a leading financial and technological hub, attracting international investors and expatriates.
Hungary boasts a strong economy, a well-developed infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. Its business-friendly environment, coupled with a stable legal and banking system, makes it a prime destination for foreign direct investment. The country's real estate market is also flourishing, making Hungary Property Investment Fund Investment an attractive option for investors looking for stability and potential growth.
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Official Name: Hungary
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Capital: Budapest
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Population: Approximately 9.7 million (as of recent estimates)
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Area: 93,030 square kilometres (35,920 sq. mi)
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Location: A landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia.
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Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
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Official Language: Hungarian
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Spoken Languages: Hungarian (predominantly), English, German
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Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1; Daylight Saving Time: UTC +2
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Driving Side: Right
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Climate: Continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 32°F (0°C) in January to 75°F (24°C) in July.
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Government: Parliamentary republic
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Major Industries: Automotive, tourism, agriculture, IT
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Main Exports: Machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, electronics
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Famous For: Budapest’s thermal baths, Danube River, paprika, goulash
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Motto: None officially adopted
Financial Requirements
To qualify for the Hungary Golden Visa, applicants must make a qualifying investment through one of the following options:
1. Hungary Real Estate Investment Fund Investment – A minimum regulated investment of €250,000 in a government-approved Hungary Property Investment Fund Investment i.e. property-backed securities. This allows investors to gain exposure to Hungary’s real estate market without the complexities of direct ownership, providing a secure way to benefit from Hungary’s real estate sector.
2. Hungary Donation – A €1 million non-refundable donation to a recognized Hungarian higher education institution, supporting academic and research initiatives.
Unlike direct property purchases, these investment funds are professionally managed and government-approved, ensuring a lower-risk pathway to obtaining residency through the Hungary Investment Visa.
General Requirements
In addition to making a qualifying investment, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Non-EU/EEA Citizenship – The program is only available to non-European nationals.
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Clean Criminal Record – Background checks ensure applicants meet security standards.
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Proof of Legal Funds – Applicants must demonstrate a lawful source of investment capital.
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Health Insurance – Comprehensive medical coverage is required.
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Valid Passport – A passport with at least two years of remaining validity is mandatory.
Unlike many other European residency programs, the Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) does not require a minimum stay, making it highly flexible for global investors.
Family Inclusion
The Hungary GIP program allows investors to extend their residency benefits to immediate family members, ensuring a seamless transition for the entire household. Eligible dependents include:
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Spouse – Legally married partners automatically qualify.
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Children – Unmarried children under 18 are included; older dependents must prove financial reliance.
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Parents – Parents over 65 of the main applicant or spouse can also be included.
Stepchildren and legally adopted children can be part of the application if they meet dependency requirements. All family members receive the same benefits, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone and access to Hungary’s healthcare and education systems.
Benefits
The Hungary Investor Visa offers numerous advantages for international investors:
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10-Year Renewable Residency – Long-term security with the option to extend indefinitely.
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Visa-Free Schengen Travel – Allows unrestricted travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
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No Minimum Stay Requirement – Investors are not required to reside in Hungary full-time.
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Favourable Hungary Tax Policies – Non-residents are exempt from Hungarian taxation on worldwide income, offering significant financial advantages.
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Pathway to Hungary Permanent Residency (PR) and Hungary Citizenship – After three years of continuous residency, investors may apply for Hungary PR. After eight years of continuous residency, investors may apply for naturalization and obtain a Hungarian passport. Hungary Dual Citizenship is permitted.
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Access to the EU Market – Residency in Hungary facilitates business and employment opportunities across the European Union.
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Lower Cost of Living – Hungary offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to many Western European countries.
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High-Quality Education – Investors and their families gain access to top universities and international schools in Hungary.
The Hungary Economic Residency program provides an efficient and flexible way to obtain a European residence permit while enjoying financial growth opportunities through Hungary Property Investment Fund Investment.
Process & Procedures
Applying for the Hungary Investment Visa involves a clear and structured process:
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Initial Consultation – Engage with legal and financial advisors to determine eligibility and choose the best investment route.
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Document Preparation – Gather required documents, including passports, proof of funds, health insurance, and background checks.
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Guest Investor Visa Application – Obtain a temporary entry visa valid for six months to complete the investment process in Hungary.
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Investment Execution – Finalize the selected investment within 93 days of entering Hungary.
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Residency Permit Application – Submit all required documents to obtain a 10-year renewable residence permit.
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Processing & Approval – The residence permit is typically granted within 4 to 8 weeks following successful investment verification.
The Hungary Second Residency program ensures a streamlined and efficient process, with government-approved investment options providing security and peace of mind for applicants.
Conclusion
The Hungary Golden Visa, offered through the Hungary Guest Investor Program (GIP), presents an exceptional opportunity for global investors seeking European residency. With multiple investment options, including Hungary Real Estate Investment Fund Investment and Hungary Donation, the program provides flexibility, financial advantages, and long-term security. Whether you are looking for a Hungary Second Residency or a future pathway to Hungarian Permanent Residency (PR) and Hungarian Citizenship, this program offers an accessible and strategic solution. Hungary Dual Citizenship is permitted.
For investors aiming to secure European residency with minimal residency requirements and significant economic benefits, the Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) program stands out as one of Europe’s most attractive options in 2026. By choosing Hungary Economic Residency, investors can unlock the gateway to the EU while securing a stable and prosperous future for themselves and their families.
FAQs
The Hungary Golden Visa, officially known as the Hungary Guest Investor Program (GIP), is a Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) scheme launched in July 2024. It allows foreign investors to obtain Hungary Economic Residency by making an eligible investment in the country. Below, we address the most commonly asked questions about the Hungary Investor Visa, its requirements, benefits, and investment options.
1. What is the Hungary Golden Visa or Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) Program?
The Hungary Golden Visa, also called the Hungary Guest Investor Program (GIP), is an immigration initiative that provides Hungary Second Residency to non-EU investors who meet one of the two investment requirements:
a) Hungary Real Estate Investment Fund Investment – Minimum €250,000 in a government-registered Hungary Property Investment Fund Investment.
b) Hungary Donation – Donate €1 million to a Hungarian university or research institution.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the Hungary Investor Visa?
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Non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals.
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Individuals with a clean criminal record and valid travel documents.
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Investors with proof of funds for the selected investment option.
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Applicants who can demonstrate financial self-sufficiency and health insurance coverage in Hungary.
3. How long is the Hungary Investment Visa valid?
The Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) permit is issued for 10 years, with a 10-year renewal option if the investment remains active.
4. Can family members apply under the Hungary GIP?
Yes, under the Hungary Guest Investor Program (GIP), spouses and dependent children can apply for residency alongside the main applicant.
5. What are the benefits of the Hungary Golden Visa?
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10-year renewable residency permit.
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No minimum stay requirements.
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Access to Schengen Zone travel for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
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Business and investment opportunities under Hungary Economic Residency.
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Potential for Hungary tax residency, depending on time spent in the country.
6. What are the tax implications of the Hungary Golden Visa?
Holding a Hungary Investment Visa does not automatically make an individual a Hungary tax resident. However, tax residency applies if:
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The individual spends 183+ days per year in Hungary.
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Their primary business/economic interests are in Hungary.
Consult a Hungarian tax advisor to determine specific obligations.
7. What is the processing time for the Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) application?
Processing takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the selected investment type and document verification process.
8. What happens if I withdraw my Hungary Real Estate Investment Fund Investment or other investment?
If an investor sells or withdraws their Hungary Property Investment Fund Investment, their Hungary Economic Residency permit may be revoked. The investment must be maintained for continued residency.
9. Can the Hungary Golden Visa lead to Hungarian Permanent Residency (PR) and Hungarian Citizenship?
The Hungary Investment Visa does not directly grant Hungary Permanent Residency (PR) or Hungary Citizenship. However, after three years of continuous residency, investors may apply for Hungary Permanent Residency (PR) and after eight years of continuous residency, investors may apply for naturalization and obtain a Hungarian passport. Hungary Dual Citizenship is permitted.
10. Can I finance the Hungary Golden Visa investment through a loan?
No, all investments must be made from personal funds. Loans, mortgages, or leveraged financing are not permitted under the Hungary GIP.
11. Are there any language requirements?
No, the Hungary Investor Visa does not require proof of Hungarian language proficiency.
12. Where can I apply for the Hungary Golden Visa?
Applications for the Hungary Residency by Investment (RBI) must be submitted through a licensed immigration lawyer or government-approved agent in Hungary.