Hungary’s Golden Visa Program Gains Global Attention
With Spain officially ending its Golden Visa program and Portugal shifting its residency-by-investment rules away from real estate, investors looking for European residency through investment are turning to Hungary’s newly introduced Golden Visa program. This program is expected to be one of the most accessible and attractive investment residency options in the EU in 2025.
Hungary’s investment-based residency program provides a 10-year renewable residence permit to non-EU investors who contribute to the country’s economy through eligible investments. Unlike many other European Golden Visa programs, Hungary offers a flexible structure with no physical residency requirements, making it an excellent choice for those looking to secure an alternative residency option without relocating full-time.
As Europe’s investment migration landscape changes, Hungary is emerging as a top destination for global investors, offering low entry costs, visa-free Schengen access, and a favorable tax regime.
Why Hungary? Key Advantages of the Hungarian Golden Visa
Hungary’s Golden Visa program stands out due to its unique benefits, particularly in comparison to other European residency-by-investment programs.
1. Affordable Investment Threshold
Hungary’s Golden Visa program requires a lower minimum investment compared to some other European countries, making it a more accessible option for investors. Unlike Spain and Portugal, which required €500,000+ in real estate, Hungary allows more flexible investment options at competitive rates.
2. Long-Term Residency Benefits
One of the biggest advantages of Hungary’s Golden Visa is its 10-year renewable residency permit. This provides investors with a long-term European residency solution, ensuring security and stability for their future.
3. No Physical Residency Requirement
Unlike Portugal’s new rules, which require investors to contribute to specific sectors, Hungary’s Golden Visa program does not mandate any physical stay requirements. Investors can obtain Hungarian residency without the need to live in the country full-time, making it ideal for business owners and global citizens.
4. Access to the Schengen Area
Golden Visa holders can travel visa-free within the Schengen Zone, allowing seamless movement across 27 European countries. This is particularly beneficial for business professionals and frequent travelers looking to expand their European presence.
5. Family Inclusion
Hungary’s Golden Visa extends residency rights to the investor’s immediate family, including spouses and children under 18, ensuring a secure future for the entire family.
6. Favorable Tax System
Hungary has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at just 9%, making it an attractive location for business owners. Investors who establish companies in Hungary can benefit from this tax-friendly environment, positioning it as a strategic business hub.
Who Can Apply for Hungary’s Golden Visa?
Hungary’s Golden Visa program is open to investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals from around the world. The following individuals are ideal candidates for the program:
✔ Business owners and entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations in Europe.
✔ Global investors seeking a long-term residency option in an EU country.
✔ High-net-worth individuals planning a second residency for security and lifestyle benefits.
✔ Families who want to secure European residency for their children’s education and future opportunities.
Unlike some other European Golden Visa programs that have tightened their requirements, Hungary offers a relatively straightforward process with fewer restrictions, making it one of the most appealing options for 2025.
How to Apply for Hungary’s Golden Visa
The application process for Hungary’s Golden Visa is designed to be efficient and straightforward, allowing investors to obtain their residency permits in a timely manner.
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Investment Option
Investors must select a qualifying investment to be eligible for Hungary’s residency program. This may include government bonds, business investments, or other economic contributions.
Step 2: Submit Application and Background Check
Applicants must provide personal documentation, proof of investment funds, and undergo a background check. This ensures that only legitimate investors gain residency.
Step 3: Obtain Temporary Residency
Once the application is approved, investors receive a temporary residence permit, allowing them to reside in Hungary while their long-term residency is processed.
Step 4: Receive 10-Year Residency Permit
Upon successful completion of the investment requirements, investors and their families receive a 10-year renewable residence permit, granting them access to all the benefits of Hungarian residency and Schengen mobility.
Step 5: Potential Path to Citizenship
While Hungary’s Golden Visa does not directly lead to citizenship, long-term residents may be eligible for Hungarian citizenship after 8 years, subject to meeting language and residency requirements.
Yusuf Boz on Hungary’s Golden Visa Program
Investment migration expert Yusuf Boz sees Hungary’s Golden Visa program as one of the best opportunities in Europe for 2025:
“With Spain closing its Golden Visa and Portugal restricting real estate investments, Hungary is stepping up as a top choice. Its flexible structure, long-term residency benefits, and business-friendly tax policies make it a game-changer for investors.”
Boz also emphasizes the importance of acting quickly:
“Golden Visa programs across Europe are changing fast. Those considering Hungary should move quickly before investment thresholds rise or additional restrictions are introduced.”
Why Hungary’s Golden Visa is a Smart Choice in 2025
As Spain and Portugal tighten their Golden Visa policies, Hungary is positioning itself as one of Europe’s most accessible and affordable residency programs.
✔ Lower investment threshold compared to other European programs.
✔ No physical residency requirement, making it highly flexible.
✔ 10-year renewable residency permit, offering long-term security.
✔ Visa-free Schengen travel for easy mobility across Europe.
✔ Business-friendly tax environment for entrepreneurs and investors.
With the global investment migration market evolving rapidly, Hungary presents a strong opportunity for those looking to secure a foothold in Europe.
