Hungary is rapidly becoming a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a vibrant culture, rich history, and affordable living. In response to the growing trend of remote work, Hungary has established a Digital Nomad Visa, providing remote workers with the opportunity to reside and work while adhering to legal requirements.
What is the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?
The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the White Card, is a one-year residence permit that allows remote workers to live and work legally in Hungary.
This visa is designed for individuals who can prove they have a stable income through remote work, freelancing, or running their own online businesses.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a non-EU/EEA citizen.
- Prove a stable income through remote work or freelancing.
- Provide proof of accommodation in Hungary.
- Have valid health insurance coverage.
- Clear criminal background checks.
The Application Process
Applying for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa is a two-step process:
Apply for the digital nomad visa at a Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country. This process may take around 30 days.
Once approved, travel to Hungary and apply for the White Card within one month of your arrival. The processing time for the White Card is approximately 15 days.
You can follow the entire application process at www.hungaryvisa.org
The Cost
The fees associated with the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa are as follows:
Visa entry application: $125.25
Service fee for White Card application in Hungary: $125.55
Service fee through NDGAP’s online platform: $77.26
Benefits of the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa
The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa offers several benefits for remote workers, including:
The opportunity to live and work in Hungary for one year, with the option to extend for an additional year if still eligible.
Access to Hungary’s affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes.
The ability to travel within the Schengen Area without needing additional visas.
Living in Hungary
As a digital nomad in Hungary, you’ll have the opportunity to experience various aspects of life in this country. Here are some key points to consider:
Cost of living:
Hungary offers an affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries. Rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation are generally more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for digital nomads.
Housing:
You’ll find a range of housing options, from shared apartments and private rentals to co-living spaces and short-term accommodations. Budapest, the capital city, is a popular choice, but smaller cities like Szeged, Debrecen, and Pécs also have their charm and appeal.
Internet and coworking spaces:
Hungary has a reliable internet infrastructure with widespread Wi-Fi coverage, even in public spaces. You’ll find coworking spaces in larger cities like Budapest, which cater to the digital nomad community.
Transportation:
Hungary has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and trains. Budapest also offers a metro system. You can easily travel within the country or explore neighboring countries with regional trains or buses.
Healthcare:
Hungary has a public healthcare system that provides universal coverage to residents. As a digital nomad, you’ll likely need private health insurance to access medical services. Private healthcare facilities, particularly in larger cities, often offer high-quality care.
Social life and networking:
Hungary offers a vibrant social scene, with numerous restaurants, bars, and cultural events. Networking opportunities abound through meetup groups, language exchange events, and digital nomad communities.