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Hungary

White Card

Europe

Last verified 26 May 2026

About this visa & living in Hungary

Hungary's White Card gives non-EU remote workers up to two years in Budapest, one of Europe's most underrated capitals. The city is cinematic, walkable and noticeably cheaper than Vienna or Prague, with thermal baths, ruin bars and a fast-growing coworking scene. Schengen access, central European location and decent infrastructure make it a strong base for anyone who wants Old World city life without paying Western European prices.

Visa at a glance

Minimum income: €3,000 / month · ~$3,240
Length of stay: 1 year
Processing time: 4 weeks
Application fee: €110 · ~$119
Tax treatment: Local tax applies
Family members: Not allowed
Renewable: Yes
Path to residency: No
Apostille required: Yes
Background check: Required
Where to apply: Either abroad or in-country
Local bank account: Can typically open one
Healthcare: Insurance required
Savings requirement: No lump-sum requirement
Cost of living: ModerateGeneral affordability for a single nomad.
Bureaucracy: ●●●●●Heavy paperwork
Nationality restrictions: EU/EEA citizens

Required documents

Passport valid 6+ months
Proof of remote work for non-Hungarian employer or own foreign-registered company
Income proof of HUF 1,000,000+ / month for last 6 months
Health insurance valid in Hungary
Hungarian address card after arrival

Things to know

Tax residency trigger: Tax residency is typically triggered after spending more than 183 days (roughly 6 months) in the country in a calendar year — at that point local income tax rules generally apply to your worldwide income. Confirm with a local tax advisor before relying on this.
Cannot transition to PR — White Card is intentionally non-immigrant.
Apply at Hungarian consulate; cannot be filed in-country.
Cannot work for Hungarian employers or clients.

Visit official source

Always verify current requirements on the official government source.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum income requirement for the Hungary White Card?

The White Card requires applicants to show a monthly income of roughly $3,240 per month. This can usually be proven via employment contracts, freelance client agreements, or bank statements.

How long can I stay in Hungary on this visa?

You can stay for 1 year. The visa is renewable, so you may be able to extend your stay beyond the initial period.

How long does the application process take?

Processing typically takes 4 weeks. We recommend applying well in advance of your planned move, as embassy workloads and seasonal spikes can cause delays.

Where do I apply for the White Card?

You can apply either from abroad or after arriving in Hungary.

Can I bring my family on the White Card?

No — the White Card does not allow family members to join under the same permit. They would need to apply for separate visas.

Will I have to pay local taxes in Hungary?

Local income tax may apply, especially if you spend more than 183 days (about 6 months) in Hungary within a calendar year. At that point you typically become tax resident and local rules generally apply to your worldwide income. Always confirm with a local tax advisor.

Is the White Card renewable?

Yes, the visa is renewable. Check the official source for any limits on total stay length or cooling-off periods between renewals.

Does the White Card lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

No, the White Card is a temporary permit and does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Hungary.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typical requirements include: Passport valid 6+ months; Proof of remote work for non-Hungarian employer or own foreign-registered company; Income proof of HUF 1,000,000+ / month for last 6 months; Health insurance valid in Hungary; Hungarian address card after arrival. Always check the official source for the latest list.