A flexible and affordable route to EU citizenship
Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, Hungary is a country defined by its striking blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. From its baroque towns and grand castles to its rolling plains and spa culture, Hungary presents a lifestyle steeped in history yet attuned to modern living.
At its centre lies Budapest, a dynamic capital divided by the Danube River, where architectural marvels like the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle overlook a skyline rich with cultural heritage. The nation is also famed for its culinary diversity, thermal springs, and centuries-old traditions, shaped by influences from both Eastern and Western Europe.
With its distinctive Magyar language and strong national identity, Hungary captivates residents and visitors alike as a bridge between Europe’s past and its progressive future.
Originally launched in 2013, Hungary’s Residency by Investment initiative has evolved over time and is now entering a new phase with the Guest Investor Program, officially commencing on 1 July 2024.
Under this updated framework, non-EU nationals who make qualifying investments in Hungary and contribute to the nation’s economic interests can obtain a guest investor residence permit, granting the right to live in the country for up to 20 years.
The programme is notable for its accessibility and value — investors may choose between:
A €250,000 investment in a real estate fund, or
A €500,000 purchase of Hungarian residential property.
As a member of the European Union, Schengen Area, and NATO, Hungary offers residents and citizens the advantages of international mobility, including visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 168 destinations worldwide.
Investors may acquire certificates issued by a real estate investment fund registered with the Central Bank of Hungary (CBH), valued at a minimum of €250,000.
Eligible real estate funds may invest in:
Domestic and international properties
Shares of real estate enterprises
Property rights and development projects
Financial and securities instruments
Derivative assets
A 15% withholding tax applies to foreign investors on dividend income and proceeds from the sale of investment units. This route typically involves lower administrative requirements and fewer management decisions, making it an attractive, hands-off option.
Effective 1 January 2025, investors may purchase residential real estate in Hungary valued at €500,000 or more. Commercial or industrial assets are excluded from this category.
The purchased property must remain under the investor’s ownership for a minimum of five years, though joint ownership with immediate family members is allowed. After the purchase, a 4% transfer tax, based on market value, is applied.
Those seeking permanent residence — also referred to as long-term residence — must reside continuously in Hungary for at least three years while holding the guest investor permit.
After eight years of uninterrupted residence, applicants become eligible to apply for Hungarian citizenship, subject to the successful completion of a national cultural and language exam.
Citizenship in Hungary provides access to the rights and privileges of an EU nation, including stability, opportunity, and the freedom to live and work across Europe.
The investor must lock in the investment for at least 5 years to enjoy residency status for the first 10 years. Residency renewal after 10 years will depend on whether the investment is in place.
Yes. To do that, the investor must first obtain permanent residency status. The applicant can then apply for citizenship through naturalisation.
The guest investor residence status entitles the holder to live in Hungary, conduct business activities, work with a local company, and rent a residential property.
There is no minimum requirement to stay in Hungary to maintain the guest investor residence status. However, if you want permanent residency and/or citizenship in the future, you must fulfil minimum days of living requirements.