Hungary Digital Nomad Visa: Steps to Apply in 2025
Step-by-step guide on how to apply for a digital nomad visa in Hungary: duration, requirements, fees and recommendations.
If you’re a digital nomad, we know that unconventional destinations that are easy to get to and offer good internet connection are all you need to take your office around the world. Hungary, with its rich history and dynamic economy, has developed an interesting option for such professionals: the digital nomad visa, also known as the White Card. Here you will find all the information you need on how to obtain this visa, the requirements you need to fulfil and how you can start your working adventure in this attractive European country.
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What is the digital nomad visa in Hungary and how does it work?
Hungary’s digital nomad visa, or White Card, was launched in November 2021 under the framework of Hungary’s immigration system, as a measure to temporarily attract international remote workers who can contribute to the country’s economy without taking up local jobs.
Today, many digital nomads see Hungary as a strategic place to live and work because of its position in Central Europe and its affordable cost of living (it is the cheapest country in Europe). According to VisaGuide.World’s Digital Nomad Index, Hungary ranks 18th on the list of the best destinations for digital nomads for its specific visa issuance characteristics, internet speed, cost of living and cost of healthcare.
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Who is this visa for?
The White Card is intended for people who carry out professional activities from anywhere in the world, without the need to be physically present in their home country or in the offices of their employer. It is designed for freelancers, self-employed workers, digital entrepreneurs and anyone with remote employment who wants to establish temporary residence in Hungary without the obligation to do local work.
Features of the digital nomad visa in Hungary
The Hungarian digital nomad visa has a number of aspects and benefits that have attracted the interest of remote professionals from different parts of the world and have put Hungary in the eye of professionals who wish to have a cultural experience while travelling and working.
Duration of your stay
The Hungarian digital nomad visa allows professionals to reside in the European country for an initial period of one year, with the option to extend it for an additional year. This gives considerable flexibility for those who wish to spend a longer period in the country, without having to worry about frequent renewals.
Permitted activities
One of the advantages of the Hungarian digital nomad visa is that it offers the freedom to work remotely for any international employer, or to run your own business, without the need to get involved in the local labour market. This means that you can work and keep your income in foreign currencies, as long as no Hungarian entities are served.
Cost and quality of life
Hungary has been ranked as one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads, due to its balance between cost of living and quality of life. Large cities such as Budapest offer advanced infrastructure, while prices are significantly lower compared to other European cities. This translates into an excellent quality of life, where you can enjoy gastronomy, culture, and entertainment at affordable prices.
Possibility of travelling in Europe
Hungary is part of the Schengen area, so if you obtain the digital nomad visa, you will also be able to travel freely throughout the 27 countries that make up the Schengen area, facilitating mobility within the European Union for the duration of your visa.
General requirements and documents for applying for a digital nomad visa in Hungary
To apply for the Hungarian digital nomad visa, there are certain essential requirements and documentation that you must meet. Check the list of these conditions that you must meet in 2024:
- Demonstrate sufficient income: applicants must be able to prove that they have sufficient income to support themselves during their stay in Hungary. This is typically around 2,000 to 2,500 euros per month (approximately 2,200 to 2,800 dollars). These could be bank documents, employment contracts or invoices for freelance services.
- Employment contract or proof of self-employment: you must provide proof that you are a remote worker, freelancer or that you run your own digital business as you cannot perform paid work for Hungarian companies under this visa.
- Non-European citizen: foreign nationals from European Union (EU) countries are not eligible for this visa.
- International health insurance: you must have an international health insurance policy that covers all eventualities during your stay in Hungary.
- Proof of address: you must prove that you have a residence address in Hungary for the duration of your stay. This can be a lease or an accommodation reservation.
- Valid passport: your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry to Hungary.
- Photographs: recent passport-size photographs.
- Application form: The visa application form must be completed and submitted online or at the Hungarian embassy in your country of residence.
Step-by-step process for applying for a digital nomad visa in Hungary
The process of obtaining the Hungarian digital nomad visa or White Card is carried out both at Hungarian embassies abroad and within Hungary. Both methods are explained in detail below:
- Make an appointment at the embassy: to apply for a visa in person, you must make an appointment at the Hungarian embassy in your country of residence.
- Prepare the required documents: make sure you have all the necessary documents: application form, passport, proof of income, health insurance, proof of accommodation, etc.
- Submit the application at the embassy: at the appointment, you will submit the application together with the paper documentation. It is important to have a copy of everything you submit.
- Pay the fee at the embassy: in many cases, payment is made directly at the embassy. Confirm payment methods before the appointment.
- Wait for a response: the application assessment process can take between 15 and 30 working days. Be sure to keep in touch with the embassy for any updates.
- Pick up your visa: Once approved, you will be able to pick up your White Card at the embassy or receive it by post, depending on the embassy’s policy.
In-person application within Hungary (if you are already in the country)
If you are already in Hungary and you are going to apply for a White Card, you can go to the National Directorate of the Aliens Police (NDGAP). The process is similar to that of the embassy, but in this case the procedure is carried out within Hungarian territory.
How much does a digital nomad visa cost in Hungary?
The cost of the Hungarian digital nomad visa is divided into several fees that applicants must take into account during the application process and subsequent obtaining of the White Card. Read on as we explain the main costs you will face below.
Visa fee | Residence permit service fee (White Card) | Visa extension fee |
The initial visa application fee is approximately 110 euros ($120) | Once your visa application has been approved, you will have to pay an additional fee of 110 euros or 120 dollars. This fee is payable for the issuance of the White Card at the National Directorate of Aliens Police (NDGAP) or at a diplomatic mission. | If you need to extend your visa, the service fee is approximately 23,000 HUF (Hungarian forint), which is equivalent to 65 euros or 70.85 US dollars. |
In summary, the basic costs for obtaining a digital nomad visa in Hungary are USD 120 at the time of application, and the same amount again for the issuance of the White Card. If you decide to extend your stay, the extension fee would be 70.85 USD.
Where can I get tailored advice on the digital nomad visa in Hungary?
As our aim is to accompany you throughout the whole process of planning and connecting your trip, we now recommend several specialised agencies and consultancies that can help you to apply for the Hungarian digital nomad visa and offer you personalised advice.
- Mivisahoy: is an agency specialising in visa advice and management, including the Schengen visa, and offers a complete service for those wishing to move or travel to European countries, such as Hungary.
- With extensive experience in the immigration field, Mivisahoy has a team of experts who guide clients through the entire process, from the collection of documents to the final presentation at the embassies. Visit mivisahoy.com.
- Visa and Migration Services: this agency offers specialised visa services for digital nomads, remote workers and other migration procedures to Hungary and other European countries. With extensive experience in EU migration legislation, they provide detailed and tailor-made assistance, ensuring that applicants meet all requirements and optimise the process. For more information go to: www.helpers.hu/services/immigration.
Frequently asked questions about the digital nomad visa in Hungary
With the Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa (White Card), you can reside in Hungary for a period of up to one year, with the possibility of extending your stay if you meet the necessary requirements. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension, which is usually granted for another year.
Yes, the White Card is specifically designed for people working remotely for employers in other countries. You can continue to work for your current company without any problems, as long as you continue to meet the income requirements and other conditions of the visa.
No, it is not necessary to speak Hungarian to apply for the Hungarian Digital Nomad visa. The application can be made in English or in other languages available on the official platforms of the Hungarian government. However, having a basic knowledge of English can be useful during the process, especially if you need to interact with embassy staff or local authorities.
Yes, once you obtain the White Card and if your stay in Hungary is within the permitted period, you can travel to other Schengen countries without the need to obtain an additional visa. Remember that the stay in other Schengen countries must not exceed 90 days in a period of 180 days, in accordance with the Schengen rules.
The processing time for the Hungarian digital nomad visa is approximately 15 to 30 working days. It is important to take this deadline into account when planning your trip, especially if you need to make adjustments to your work or travel itinerary in Hungary.
Yes, you can apply for the Hungarian Digital Nomad visa from any country, but you must apply through the Hungarian embassy that has jurisdiction over your country of residence. If you live in a country where there is no Hungarian embassy, you could apply for a visa at the nearest Hungarian embassy, or apply online.
The Hungarian digital nomad visa is not designed to carry dependants such as spouses or children. However, if you want your family to accompany you, you will need to investigate whether they can apply for separate visas or reside with you under other legal conditions. In many cases, they may need separate long-stay or residence visas.
The Hungarian digital nomad visa is primarily intended for remote working. Generally speaking, however, it does not restrict you from studying, as long as your main activity remains remote work. If you want to study full-time, you may need a specific student visa.