The Hungarian Golden Visa, originally launched as the Hungarian Investor Residency Bond Program in 2013, has been revamped and reintroduced in 2023 as the Guest Investor Visa. This program aims to attract foreign investment by offering residency permits. The scheme guarantees a 20-year residence permit, allowing holders visa-free access to the Schengen area, high-quality healthcare, an excellent educational system, and a pathway to European citizenship.
Hungarian Golden Visa Requirements
As of 2024, non-EU citizens seeking this European residence permit can qualify by:
- Investing at least €250,000 in eligible real estate funds in Hungary; or
- Investing at least €500,000 in eligible residential real estate projects in Hungary; or
- Donating €1,000,000 to a public trust in Hungary.
The Hungarian Golden Visa will start accepting applications from July 1, 2024. The government has already released amendments to the regulations ahead of the official opening.
Amendments in the Application Process to Acquire the Guest Investor Visa
Investing in a European Golden Visa requires understanding the step-by-step process, which your legal provider and consultant will guide you through until you receive your residence card. Investors will first need to apply for a ‘Guest Investor Visa’ to travel to Hungary and complete the investment or donation.
Under the new updates, investors have up to six months to travel to Hungary and make their investment once the ‘Guest Investor Visa’ has been granted.
Hungary Golden Visa Real Estate Eligible Projects
Eligible real estate projects for the Hungarian Golden Visa can only be acquired from July 1, 2025. Any property purchases made before this date will not count towards the residence permit. Only applicants willing to invest in real estate funds or make a donation can apply for the Golden Visa in 2024. Those seeking to invest exclusively in real estate must wait another year to qualify.
Funds Investment Requirements for the Hungarian Golden Visa Program
Under the recent amendment, there is a specific list of real estate fund managers permitted to participate, maintained by the ‘Constitution Protection Office.’ Fund managers wishing to be included may apply for further national security examinations.
Benefits of the Hungary Golden Visa Program
- Visa-free access to the Schengen area
- Pathway to European citizenship
- 20-year residence permit
- No minimum stay requirements
- No tax obligations for non-residents
- Applications typically approved within 4-8 weeks
How to Decide Which Golden Visa to Invest In?
Those seeking a European Golden Visa should review all available options, as Hungary is just one of many European countries with attractive investment opportunities. The first step in efficiently evaluating your options is to consult with a specialist who can provide an up-to-date overview of current programs and their investment portfolios. Residency programs can change over time and are subject to governmental alterations, as seen with the changes to the Portuguese Golden Visa in 2023.
At Unistone International, we prioritize understanding each client’s unique scenario, budget, desired return on investment (ROI), and what can best provide freedom of movement and quality of life for their families. Our team of experts is actively involved in the industry, ensuring a tailored and personalized evaluation for a successful, hassle-free Golden Visa acquisition.
Contact us at Unistone International to start your journey toward securing a Hungarian Golden Visa and investing in your future.