Getting EU residency used to feel out of reach for many non-Europeans , too expensive, too slow, or just too confusing. But Hungary has brought back something interesting in 2024 that’s now live in 2025: a new version of the “Golden Visa,” officially called the Guest Investor Program. According to Hungary’s official factsheet, a visa for guest investors requires a €250,000 investment in a real estate fund registered by the Hungarian National Bank or €1,000,000 donation to a public trust institution.
If you’ve been looking for a way to secure long-term residency in Europe without uprooting your life or spending millions, this might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
Hungary’s New Golden Visa
Hungary’s Golden Visa , or Guest Investor Program , is a government-approved residency-by-investment scheme. It allows non-EU citizens to gain a 10-year renewable residence permit by either investing €250,000 in a Hungarian real estate fund or donating €1,000,000 to a national public trust.
Why More People Are Turning to Hungary for EU Residency
Hungary’s new Golden Visa isn’t just another residency program; it’s a response to the growing demand for simpler, cost-effective access to the EU. Over the past few years, many popular European programs have either increased their investment thresholds or tightened eligibility rules. Portugal raised property requirements. Ireland shut its program entirely. Meanwhile, Hungary returned with a route that balances low cost, flexibility, and strong mobility benefits.
Let’s break down why Hungary is suddenly becoming a preferred choice.
Accessible Entry Point
Unlike many EU countries that demand half a million euros or more, Hungary’s real estate fund investment starts at €250,000. This positions it as one of the lowest-cost legal pathways to EU residency, especially considering the 10-year residence permit you receive in return.
There’s no need to buy physical property or live in Hungary full-time. That flexibility gives applicants more control over how they manage their time and finances.
No Residency Requirement (Initially)
One of the strongest appeals of Hungary’s program is that it doesn’t force you to relocate or spend months each year inside the country. You can invest, gain your residence permit, and continue living where you are. That’s attractive to people with business obligations or family roots elsewhere.
EU Mobility with Schengen Access
With a Hungarian residence permit, you can travel visa-free across the Schengen Area. For frequent travelers, digital nomads, or global entrepreneurs, this freedom is practical and valuable.
A friend of mine had considered Portugal’s program back in 2022, but hesitated because of high costs and slow approvals. By the time he decided, Portugal had already restricted its rules. He ended up applying for Hungary’s program in 2025 instead, and finished the process in under three months. What struck him most was how clear-cut Hungary’s process was compared to what he experienced elsewhere.
His experience made me realize: sometimes the less-hyped programs offer the smoothest path, especially when you’re not chasing headlines but actual long-term value.
Hungary may not have been the first name on everyone’s list, but with its current setup, it’s fast becoming a serious alternative for smart investors seeking EU access.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility and Basic Requirements
Hungary’s Golden Visa program is designed to attract legitimate investors from outside the European Union. But before you think about transferring funds or choosing an investment route, it’s important to understand who qualifies and what’s expected from each applicant. This isn’t just a “buy your way in” model. Hungary has made it clear that while the program is open, it comes with clear rules, checks, and responsibilities.
Non-EU Citizenship Requirement
To begin with, applicants must be non-EU and non-EEA nationals. This program is specifically structured to attract foreign capital from individuals who do not already have easy access to the Schengen Zone or European residence rights. If you’re already a citizen or resident of an EU country, you’re not eligible.
This also means applicants must not hold citizenship from any European Economic Area (EEA) country, nor from Switzerland. The program is aimed at global investors, entrepreneurs, or families from outside of Europe who want to establish a legal, long-term connection to the EU.
Age and Legal Capacity
Applicants must be 18 years or older and legally capable of entering into contracts and financial agreements. This is a basic requirement, but one that reinforces the idea that the applicant must be making the decision voluntarily, with a full understanding of the legal and financial obligations.
Minors cannot apply in their own name but can be included as dependents in a parent’s or guardian’s application.
Clean Criminal Record
One of the most critical checks in the eligibility process is the criminal background check. Hungary requires a clean criminal record, not just from your country of citizenship, but from any country where you’ve lived for six months or more in the past five years.
This means if you’ve lived in multiple countries, you’ll need to supply police clearance certificates from each one. These documents must often be translated and legalized (apostilled or authenticated, depending on the country of issue) before submission.
Hungary takes national security seriously. The Constitution Protection Office conducts background screenings, and any red flags, including fraud, money laundering, or past visa violations, can lead to automatic rejection.
Proof of Legitimate Source of Funds
Hungary’s program is closely aligned with EU anti-money laundering (AML) directives. Applicants must prove the lawful origin of the funds being used for investment or donation. This involves submitting tax returns, salary slips, sale agreements, or business income reports.
For example, if you are investing €250,000 into a real estate fund, Hungarian authorities want to see that the money didn’t come from unreported sources. It needs to be traceable to your name and legally declared. If the money was gifted or inherited, you may need to show documents confirming the origin of the gift and the relationship with the person who gave it.
Health Insurance and Accommodation
Although the Golden Visa doesn’t require full-time residence, applicants still need to show that they will not burden the Hungarian state. This is done in two ways: by proving access to private health insurance valid in Hungary, and by providing evidence of a place of accommodation within the country.
This accommodation doesn’t have to be purchased property. It can be a rental agreement, a notarized invitation from a friend or relative in Hungary, or even proof of a hotel or serviced apartment booking at the time of application.
These requirements are not symbolic. If your health insurance is not accepted or your accommodation proof is too vague, the authorities may delay or reject your application. All documentation must match official Hungarian guidelines.
Family Members Included
One of the attractive parts of this program is that it allows family reunification. You can include your spouse and children under 18 in the same application. In some cases, dependent parents may also be added, though this usually requires additional documentation proving financial dependency and shared residence.
Each family member must go through similar background checks and supply relevant documents. Their legal residence permit is tied to the main applicant’s investment, so if the investment fails or is withdrawn early, the family’s permits may also be impacted.
Understanding these eligibility rules is more than just ticking boxes. It’s about showing Hungary that you are serious, law-abiding, and financially stable. This program offers real, long-term benefits , but only to those who respect the process from day one.
Investment Options Under Hungary’s Golden Visa
To qualify for Hungary’s Golden Visa, you must choose one of the two government-approved investment routes. Unlike other countries that offer a long list of complex or real estate-heavy options, Hungary keeps it simple. But each route has its own structure, rules, and holding periods , so it’s important to know exactly what you’re committing to before making a move.
Option 1: €250,000 Real Estate Investment Fund
This is the more popular and accessible route. You invest a minimum of €250,000 into a Hungarian real estate investment fund that’s registered and approved by the Hungarian National Bank.
- The fund must invest at least 40% of its assets into residential property in Hungary.
- The investment must be held for at least 5 years.
- You’ll receive investment certificates confirming your participation.
- You’re not buying a property directly; you’re buying into a fund that holds and manages real estate.
- These funds are regulated, but you must still choose wisely; only approved funds qualify for the program.
This route offers long-term flexibility. You don’t have to manage a property or deal with tenants, and your risk is spread across multiple assets through the fund.
Option 2: €1,000,000 Donation to Public Trust
This is the higher-end route and is typically chosen by those who want to avoid managing or tracking any investment.
- You donate €1,000,000 to a Hungarian public trust.
- These trusts support national interests in education, science, arts, or culture.
- The amount is non-refundable and must be fully transferred.
- No holding period is required; once donated, your obligation is fulfilled.
While straightforward, this route does not offer any return or control over funds, so it’s best suited for those who view the visa as the main goal, not investment returns.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Real Estate Fund | Public Trust Donation |
| Minimum Amount | €250,000 | €1,000,000 |
| Refundable | Yes (after 5 years) | No |
| Investment Type | Fund shares | Charitable contribution |
| Holding Period | 5 years | None |
| Return on Investment | Possible (market dependent) | None |
| Involvement Level | Passive | Zero |
Each route offers a legal path to Hungary’s 10-year residence permit. Your choice depends on whether you prefer long-term investment potential or a one-time donation for quick processing and zero future obligations.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Hungary’s Golden Visa application process is streamlined compared to many other EU residency programs. It’s designed to minimize waiting periods while ensuring compliance with national and EU-level security and financial regulations. If you follow each step correctly, you can complete the process in as little as 8 to 12 weeks.
Step 1: Secure the Required Documents
Before you even apply, make sure you’ve gathered all necessary documents. These typically include:
- Valid passport with at least 1 year of validity remaining
- Police clearance certificate(s) from countries lived in during the past 5 years
- Proof of funds and source of income (bank statements, tax returns, sale of assets, etc.)
- Health insurance covering Hungary
- Proof of accommodation in Hungary
- Certified translations for all non-Hungarian documents
Each document must meet strict formatting and legalization rules. Incorrect paperwork is the most common reason for delays.
Step 2: Apply for the Guest Investor Visa (D-Type Visa)
You’ll first apply for a Guest Investor Visa, also known as a D visa, through a Hungarian consulate or embassy. This visa allows you to enter Hungary for the purpose of completing your investment.
- A visa is typically valid for 6 months
- Requires submission of your investment plan and documentation
- Once granted, it gives you the green light to proceed with the investment in Hungary
Without this visa, you won’t be able to move forward in the program, even if you have the funds ready.
Step 3: Travel to Hungary and Complete the Investment
Once you receive your D-visa, you must travel to Hungary and complete the investment within about 90 days.
- For the real estate fund route: buy your shares and receive proof of investment
- For the donation route: transfer funds to the approved public trust
You’ll need to present evidence that the investment is complete and meets program criteria.
Step 4: Apply for the Residence Permit
After finalizing your investment, you apply for the 10-year Guest Investor Residence Permit. This is the main document that gives you legal residency status in Hungary.
- The application is submitted in person in Hungary
- You may be called for an interview or background checks
- Once approved, the residence card is issued, typically within a few weeks
By following each of these steps carefully, your path to long-term Hungarian residency becomes not just possible , but highly achievable.
What is a Guest Investor Residence Permit?
The Guest Investor Residence Permit is the core benefit offered under Hungary’s new Golden Visa program. Once your investment is made and your application is approved, this residence permit grants you the legal right to live in Hungary and enjoy a range of privileges that come with EU residency. Understanding what this permit includes and what it doesn’t is essential before applying.
Validity and Renewal
The residence permit is issued for 10 years, which is notably longer than many similar programs across Europe. Most EU golden visa schemes offer 1–2 years of residence at a time, with multiple renewals required. Hungary’s approach simplifies the process significantly, reducing the need for frequent paperwork and embassy visits. Although it is renewable after the 10-year period, many residents may already qualify for permanent residence or even citizenship by that point, depending on their circumstances.
There are no annual renewal fees or complex residency tests during the initial 10-year period. However, the Hungarian authorities do have the right to conduct periodic checks, especially related to whether the investment is still valid and the permit holder still meets the program’s basic requirements.
Rights Granted Under the Permit
With this permit, you have the legal right to live in Hungary for the full duration. You can also travel freely within the Schengen Zone, which includes most EU countries, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This is particularly useful for those who want to maintain flexibility without applying for multiple visas each time they enter Europe.
You are also allowed to bring family members, including your spouse and dependent children. They will receive residence permits linked to yours and can live, study, or even work in Hungary under certain conditions. If they wish to apply for citizenship or permanent residence in the future, their time in Hungary is also counted from the date their permits are issued.
What It Doesn’t Include
It’s important to note that this permit does not automatically grant the right to work in Hungary. If employment is part of your plan, you may need to apply for a separate work authorization, depending on the role and employer. The permit also does not give you voting rights, access to public benefits, or automatic tax residency, unless you meet Hungary’s specific tax rules and stay thresholds.
This permit is a gateway, not a finish line. It offers long-term stability, travel access, and a structured path toward deeper integration in Hungary and the EU.
Timeline: From Application to Citizenship
Understanding the timeline of Hungary’s Golden Visa journey helps set realistic expectations. While the program offers one of the fastest routes to EU residency, full citizenship takes time and planning. Each stage comes with its own requirements and waiting periods, so knowing what to expect at every step is key.
Guest Investor Visa: The Starting Point
The process begins with the Guest Investor Visa application, which generally takes 2 to 4 weeks for approval. This visa gives you six months to enter Hungary and complete the investment. It’s a short-term but critical entry point that signals your intent to become a long-term resident through legal investment.
Applicants are encouraged to begin collecting documents and working with advisors in advance, as delays often result from incomplete or incorrect paperwork rather than the visa processing itself.
Investment Completion: Within 90 Days of Entry
Once you arrive in Hungary, the investment must be completed within 90 days. Whether you’re investing in a real estate fund or making a public trust donation, all financial transactions and supporting documentation must be finalized within this timeframe. The government does not allow delays beyond this period without strong justification.
After completion, you submit your residence permit application in Hungary. This phase often takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the volume of applications and whether further background verification is required.
Holding Period and Residency Rights
For the real estate fund investment, you must hold your shares for at least 5 years. You don’t need to live in Hungary during this time, but you are expected to maintain your residence permit status, comply with all legal obligations, and avoid any criminal offenses that might jeopardize your status.
This 5-year period is important not only for meeting program requirements but also for building a case for future permanent residence or citizenship.
Long-Term Residence and Citizenship
After holding your residence permit and maintaining legal status, you may apply for permanent residence after 3 years of continuous legal stay in Hungary. However, this requires physical presence and deeper integration, including language skills and proof of contribution to society.
Citizenship is usually available after 8 years of lawful residence, with requirements including Hungarian language proficiency, knowledge of the country’s constitution, and a clean criminal history. While the Golden Visa starts the journey, achieving full citizenship is a separate legal process with additional conditions.
Hungary offers a structured path , fast residency, medium-term permanent residence, and long-term citizenship , all through one clear investment decision.
Required Documents and Application Tips
Applying for Hungary’s Golden Visa means preparing a detailed set of documents that prove your identity, financial status, and legal eligibility. Every file must be accurate, up-to-date, and formatted according to Hungarian law; small errors can delay or derail your application.
Essential Documents
You’ll need a valid passport, proof of investment funds, criminal background checks from each country you’ve lived in during the past 5 years, and proof of legal income or asset sale. Health insurance covering Hungary and a document showing your accommodation (rental agreement or hotel booking) are also mandatory.
Translations into Hungarian may be required, and many documents need to be apostilled or legalized, depending on where they were issued.
UAE-Specific Tips
For applicants from highly regulated banking regions, ensure that your source of funds is well-documented with clear bank statements and tax filings. It’s wise to get all non-Hungarian documents translated and certified before initiating your visa application to avoid embassy-level rejections or resubmissions.
Risks and Realistic Considerations
While Hungary’s Golden Visa program is well-structured, it’s not without risks. The investment must be held for five full years, and early withdrawal can cancel your residency status. Choosing the wrong real estate fund , one that’s not approved or fails to meet the 40% residential asset rule , could lead to rejection. Always verify fund eligibility through legal experts before committing.
Another thing to keep in mind: the laws can change. Hungary reintroduced this program recently, and future policy shifts could impact renewals, citizenship routes, or tax status. Be prepared with legal support and always stay informed throughout your residency period.
Hungary vs. Portugal vs. Greece
Hungary’s program is simpler and faster than most EU alternatives. Portugal has a longer timeline and higher real estate costs, while Greece is similar in investment but doesn’t offer a 10-year permit upfront. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Hungary | Portugal | Greece |
| Min Investment | €250,000 | €280K–€500K | €250,000 |
| Residence Validity | 10 years | 2 years | 5 years |
| Citizenship Eligibility | 8 years | 5 years | 7 years |
| Property Required? | No (via fund) | Yes (usually) | Yes |
Starting the Process
To begin, contact a licensed immigration advisor, gather the required documents, and submit your D-visa application at a Hungarian embassy. Once approved, travel to Hungary, finalize your investment, and apply for the residence permit.
A step-by-step approach, professional legal support, and document readiness are the best ways to ensure a smooth application experience.
Final Thoughts
Hungary’s Golden Visa offers one of the most straightforward and affordable paths to long-term EU residency today. With a €250,000 investment, minimal bureaucracy, and a 10-year residence permit, it stands out in a field where other programs have become costlier or more restrictive.
If your goal is secure EU access with flexibility and future options like permanent residence or citizenship, Hungary’s Guest Investor Program is a strong and reliable option , as long as you stay compliant and choose the right investment path from the start.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’re thinking seriously about gaining EU residency through Hungary’s Golden Visa, now is the right time to act. For personalized guidance and support through every step of the process, visit The Open World , a trusted platform for global residency and citizenship solutions.
Whether you’re based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the region, their team can help you navigate the Hungarian process smoothly and securely.
