Hungarian Residence Permit 2025: How to Stay in Europe Legally and Get Maximum Privileges?

Imagine strolling through the cozy streets of Budapest, holding a fragrant cup of coffee, with the picturesque Danube by your side and open borders to all of Europe ahead. Instead of visa restrictions, bureaucracy, and instability, you have the legal status of an EU resident. Sounds like a dream? No, it's reality. And in 2025, one of the most accessible ways to achieve this remains obtaining a Hungarian residence permit (RP).

But what has changed, which programs are available, and why is Hungary once again becoming a top choice for those seeking stability in Europe?

In this article, we will explore all the relevant RP programs and key conditions for obtaining status in 2025.

Why Hungary?

While other EU countries are closing their doors, Hungary is providing opportunities. If you want freedom of movement, a reliable system for protecting capital, and a secure future, Hungary currently offers all this—and even more:

• Free access to the Schengen Zone without visa restrictions.
• Low taxes—9% corporate tax, 15% personal income tax.
• Affordable real estate—property prices are lower than in Germany or Spain.
• Fast-track citizenship—after 8 years of legal residence.
• Minimal residency requirements—no obligation to stay in the country year-round.

Most importantly, it is still possible to obtain an RP without excessive bureaucracy.

Who Can Get a Hungarian RP in 2025?

Almost anyone. The key is choosing the right program.

6 Ways to Obtain a Hungarian RP in 2025

1. Investment RP ("Golden Visa" Program)

If you don’t want to depend on visas, seek a secure place for your capital, and want EU status, an investment RP is your best option. This program is designed for financially capable individuals looking to legally settle in Europe, diversify assets, and secure EU residency for themselves and their families.

Ideal for:

• Entrepreneurs who want to reduce dependence on a single jurisdiction.
• Investors looking to protect capital and gain long-term EU privileges.
• Families wishing to provide their children with a stable future and education in Europe.

Requirements:

• Investment of at least €250,000 in an approved fund.
• Minimum holding period of 5 years.
• Proof of lawful origin of funds.
• For Russian and Belarusian citizens, participation is possible only with a second citizenship.

Approved Funds:

• SPRINT Hungary Real Estate Development and Investment Fund (licensed on October 29, 2024).
• Gránit Asset Management (government-approved on January 22, 2025).

Additional Investment Options:

• Purchase of residential property—minimum investment of €500,000.
• Charitable donation—starting from €1,000,000 to educational funds.

Benefits:

• Guaranteed RP for 10 years.
• Inclusion of spouse and minor children.
• No obligation to live in Hungary permanently.
• Free access to EU countries.

2. RP for Entrepreneurs

If you want to run a business in the EU, pay minimal taxes, and legally reside in Europe, this status is for you. It is especially popular among IT entrepreneurs, startup owners, and marketing agencies.

Ideal for entrepreneurs who want to:

• Expand their business in the EU and leverage economic advantages.
• Optimize taxes, as Hungary has a corporate tax rate of just 9%.
• Live and work in a stable European country with long-term planning opportunities.

Requirements:

• Company registration with a minimum capital of €7,700.
• A viable business plan.
• Active business operations and tax payments.

Benefits:

• RP is issued for 3 years with an option for renewal.
• Hungary has the lowest corporate tax in the EU (9%).
• You can work in your own company without needing a separate work visa.

3. RP for Digital Nomads (White Card)

This program is perfect for freelancers, IT specialists, bloggers, and online business owners who don’t need to work in Hungary but require legal EU status.

Requirements:

• Verified income of at least €3,000 per month.
• Cannot be employed by Hungarian companies.

Benefits:

• Live in Hungary while maintaining tax residency elsewhere.
• RP issued for 1 year with renewal option. 
• Remote work confirmation required.

4. RP through Employment

This program is designed for specialists with a job offer from a Hungarian company—such as programmers, engineers, doctors, and financial experts.

Requirements:

• Official employment contract with a Hungarian employer.
• Proof of qualifications.

Benefits:

• RP is valid for the contract duration (up to 2 years), with renewal options.
• After 5 years, applicants can apply for permanent residency.

5. RP for Students

This type of RP is granted to those enrolled in a Hungarian university who wish to receive a European education and work during their studies.

Requirements:

• Proof of university enrollment.

Benefits:

• Work up to 30 hours per week.
• Access to European education. 
• Financial sustainability proof required.

6. RP for Family Reunification

This program allows individuals to obtain an RP to live with their family members in Hungary. Eligible applicants include:

• Spouses and children of RP holders or Hungarian citizens.
• Parents, if they are financially dependent.
• Unregistered partners who can prove cohabitation.

Requirements:

• Proof of family relationship.
• Financial support (sponsorship from an RP holder).
• Health insurance.

Benefits:

• Simple application process.
• Work authorization in Hungary.
• Access to healthcare and education.

How to Apply for a Hungarian RP?

Document Collection:

• Completed RP application form.
• Passport (copy and original).
• Proof of financial sustainability.
• Lease agreement or property ownership documents.
• Health insurance.
• For students: university enrollment confirmation.
• For entrepreneurs: business plan and company registration documents.

Submission:

Applications can be submitted:

• At the Hungarian consulate in your home country.
• At the Hungarian immigration office if already in the country.

Processing Time:

• Usually takes 2-6 months, depending on the RP type.

Residence Card Issuance:

Once approved, the applicant receives an RP card confirming their status.

What Do Hungarian Authorities Say?

Hungary is known for its strict migration policies, but the government continues to attract qualified professionals and investors.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has repeatedly stated:

“We will not open our borders to illegal migration, but we will offer pathways for those willing to contribute to our economy.”

This approach has shaped the new RP policy:

• Stricter controls on illegal migrants.
• Streamlined processes for investors and professionals.
• Clear requirements for RP applicants.

Conclusion

Hungary remains one of the best EU countries for obtaining an RP. Programs are available for investors, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and families. The application process is transparent, with processing times ranging from 2 to 6 months.

If you are considering securing a new migration status in Europe, a Hungarian RP is a real opportunity to establish yourself in the EU.