Digital Nomad Visa

Hungary

Europe
Embark on a new chapter of your life with the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, a gateway to endless possibilities and a thriving community for remote workers and digital nomads.

Does Hungary have a digital nomad visa?

Yes. The Hungarian White Card, commonly referred to as the Digital Nomad Visa, is designed for individuals engaged in remote work and seeking a residence period of up to 1 year in Hungary. Established in 2021, this visa aims to draw digital nomads to Hungary, positioning the country as an appealing destination for remote work. With the Digital Nomad Visa, individuals can both reside and work in Hungary, whether employed by a foreign company or engaged in freelance work.

Is Hungary digital nomad visa national type d visa?

Yes. The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the "Hungary White Card" or Type D Visa, stands as a unique residence permit designed specifically for digital nomads.

Who is eligible for a Hungary digital nomad visa (white card)?

Eligibility for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa (White Card) includes the following criteria:

  1. You are a third-country national.
  2. You engage in work using a laptop, phone, wifi, etc.
  3. Possession of a valid job contract outside Hungary; or
  4. Ownership of shares in a company outside Hungary; or
  5. You own your own company.
  6. You do not hold any shares in a company within Hungary.
  7. You are not involved in any profit-generating activities within Hungary.

Digital nomad visa in Hungary: requirements and documents

To apply for a Hungary digital nomad visa, you are required to submit the following documents:

  1. A fully completed visa application form.
  2. A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months.
  3. Two passport photos, sized 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), with the head positioned between 1 - 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
  4. Proof of income, demonstrating a minimum income requirement.
  5. Proof of accommodation, which can be in the form of a hotel booking, lease, or rental agreement.
  6. Valid health insurance covering all expenses during your stay in Hungary.
  7. A valid return flight ticket indicating the date of your departure from Hungary.

Digital nomad visa in Hungary: requirements for income

To meet the income requirements for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, you must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €2,000 ($2045.16). Acceptable documentation to prove your income includes submitting an employment contract detailing your salary, a tax certificate, bank statements, or any other relevant documents verifying your financial capacity.

Hungary digital nomad visa for Russian citizens: nuances

To initiate the application process, Russian citizens are required to satisfy certain criteria, which encompass presenting evidence of remote work, demonstrating accommodation arrangements, and furnishing other essential documentation. Nevertheless, due to the dynamic nature of immigration policies, it is crucial to stay informed by checking the latest information and requirements through official channels or seeking guidance from the Hungarian embassy or consulate for the most current details regarding the Hungary digital nomad visa for Russian citizens.

How to apply for Hungary digital nomad visa?

Navigating the Hungary digital nomad visa application process may seem complex, but with the right guidance, it can be efficiently completed. Follow our step-by-step guide for a smooth application journey:

  • Step 1: Gather Essential Documents
  • Step 2: Complete the Application Form
  • Step 3: Submit Visa Application
  • Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval
  • Step 5: Apply for Residency

How long can you stay in Hungary with a digital nomad visa?

The Hungary digital nomad visa is initially valid for one year, with the option of extension for an additional year at most.

Digital nomad visa in Hungary: cost

The fees associated with the Hungary digital nomad visa include:

  1. Application for the White Card within your country: $125.25
  2. Service fee for submitting your White Card application within Hungary: $125.55
  3. Service fee for submitting your application through the NDGAP’s online platform: $77.26
  4. Service fee for extending your visa at one of NDGAP’s offices (in person): $112.68
  5. Service fee for extending your visa through NDGAP’s online platform: $75.05

Digital nomad visa in Hungary: taxes

As a digital nomad in Hungary, you attain tax residency after spending a minimum of 183 days in the country, obligating you to pay taxes from the 183rd day onward. The taxation includes personal income tax and social contributions.

Hungary boasts relatively favorable tax rates, making it an attractive option for foreign investors. The personal tax rate stands at 15%, with employees contributing an 18.5% social security tax and employers paying a 13% social contribution tax. Furthermore, corporate income tax is set at 9%, the value-added tax rate is 27%, and the property tax rate is 4%.

Processing time for a digital nomad visa in Hungary

The processing time for the Hungary digital nomad visa is approximately thirty days, starting from the submission date of your completed application.

What if I’m not eligible for Hungary digital nomad visa as a digital nomad?

If you do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Hungary digital nomad visa as a digital nomad, it's important to explore alternative visa options or residency programs that align with your situation. Hungary offers various visa categories, and you may consider other pathways such as work permits, business visas, or other types of residency permits based on your specific circumstances. Conduct thorough research or consult with immigration authorities or legal professionals to identify the most suitable option for your stay in Hungary.

Digital nomad visa in Hungary on Reddit

Olaf from NY says: "I am currently in Hungary and have recently commenced my White Card application. While I have a one-year lease, it appears that even a week's stay in a hotel is deemed acceptable. Notably, it is recommended, perhaps even mandatory, to initiate the White Card application from within Hungary.

For those without an existing visa to enter Hungary, a separate application is required (though, being an American, I could enter without one). Once in Hungary, the advice is to promptly apply for the White Card, ideally within the initial two weeks of arrival.

A notable challenge in the application process, in my experience, has been obtaining a letter from my employer affirming ongoing employment, a specified income, and the ability to perform my job remotely. The requirement for this letter poses a potential hurdle, particularly for those seeking to keep their application discreet. Fortunately, my employer had previously granted approval for this endeavor. For freelancers or self-employed individuals, the process may be relatively more straightforward."