Hungary, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a European gem that beckons travelers from around the world. Whether you’re planning a short-term visit for tourism, business, or seeking a long-term stay in this enchanting country, understanding the Hungarian visa process is essential to make your journey smooth and memorable.
In this article, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to navigate the intricacies of obtaining a Hungary visa, including types of visas, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and more
Is Hungary Part of Schengen Visa?
Yes, Hungary is part of the Schengen Area and shares the same rights as the other 26 state members. This means that Hungary has a visa policy that is unified with the Schengen policy.
Hungary signed the Schengen agreement in April 2003 and started implementing it in December 2007. The agreement allows citizens from the member countries to travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Do I Need a Visa to Go to Hungary?
You do not need a visa to go to Hungary if you are:
- A citizen of the EU/EEA. Citizens of other Schengen countries can enter Hungary freely.
- A citizen of a country with a visa-free agreement. Citizens from the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Britain can stay in Hungary for up to 90 days.
If you do not fall into any of the two categories mentioned above, then you must apply for a Schengen Visa to enter Hungary.
»Visa free countries for Hungarian passport holders
Hungary Visa Types
Before applying for a Hungary visa, you must choose the type of visa based on the reason you are traveling as listed below:
- Hungary Tourist Visa. Tourist visas are issued to individuals who want to enter Hungary for a maximum period of 90 days. This type of visa allows you to visit other Schengen members within this period and can be issued for single, double, or multiple entries.
- Hungary Transit Visa. A transit visa authorizes its holder to enter the international zone of the airport and remain there until they take another flight to their country of destination. The transit visa does not allow you to leave the international transit area of an airport, even if you have to wait overnight.
- Hungary Long-stay Visas. Long-stay visas are issued for more extended stays. For example, if you want to stay in Hungary for more than three months, you have to apply for a Hungary long-stay visa. Based on the purpose of your visit, there are different types of long-stay visas:
- Hungary Work Visa. If you want to work in Hungary for longer than three months, you need to obtain a work visa. A work visa can be obtained if you are employed in a company directed by a Hungarian citizen or if you are the owner of your own company.
- Hungary Student Visa. Students who wish to study in Hungary for more than three months must have a Hungary Student visa. This visa allows its holder to stay in Hungary until the educational program they are enrolled in is completed.
- Hungary Family Visa. Everyone who wants to join their family members (spouse, children, parents, etc.) living in Hungary must apply for a family visa. A family visa is valid for four years and can be extended for four more years.
- Hungary Working Holiday Visa. A Working Holiday visa is designated for young people between the ages of 18 to 30 who want to visit and explore the life and culture of Hungary. This type of visa is valid for one year and allows young foreign citizens to stay and work in Hungary until their visa expires.
Difference Between Hungary Schengen Visa and Long-Term Visa
Here are the differences between a Hungarian Schengen visa and a Long-Term visa:
| Hungary long term visa | Hungary Schengen visa |
| Long-stay | Short-stay |
| Valid for a maximum of 1 year (365 days) | Valid for 90 days within a 180-day period |
| Work | Tourism |
| Study | Business |
| Family reunification | Family visit |
| Residence permit is mandatory | Temporary residence permit is not mandatory |
How to Get a Visa for Hungary?
To get a visa for Hungary you must first determine the purpose of your visit to Hungary. Then you need to collect the requred documents set by the Hungarian authorities, and go through each step of the application process for a Hungary visa. Depending on the visa type, you will be required to pay a fee.
Hungary Visa Processing Time
According to the law, the processing time for a visa application must not exceed 15 days. However, for individual cases, the processing time can be extended to a maximum of 45 days.
In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU, the processing time is 10 days.
Hungary Visa Duration
You can see the number of days you are allowed to stay in Hungary on the visa sticker on your passport.
Hungary Visa Extension
You can extend your Hungary visa only in exceptional cases if new facts and special reasons occur after entering the country. To apply for an extension, you must submit the following documents:
- Valid Passport.
- Application Form.
- One Photograph.
- Means of Subsistence.
- Schengen Travel Insurance.
- Documents proving your situation and the reason for your extension.
What If My Hungary Visa Is Rejected?
If the embassy rejects your visa application, you can appeal within eight days from the day you received the rejection.
The letter of appeal should be written in A4 paper to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Hungary explaining the reason for your appeal in Hungarian or any other official language of the European Union.
If the appeal is written in another language, you must submit an official translation by a certified translator. You will also be required to pay a fee of €30 for the appeal process. The fee can be paid the same time you submit the appeal letter.
Do You Need a Hungary Visa from the US?
No, you do not. Citizens of the U.S. can enter Hungary for up to 90 days without a visa. The reason for your travel can be for tourism or business. However, if you want to stay longer than three months, you need to apply for a long-stay visa.
Fun Facts About Hungary
Hungary is a fun place to live and visit. Although you may know a lot about the country, here are some fun facts about Hungary.
- Hungary is one of the oldest countries in Europe.
- The first foreign fast-food restaurant opened in Hungary was Mcdonald’s.
- There are cowboys (csikos) in Hungary.
- The first subway line in continental Europe was built in Budapest.
- The Hungarian alphabet has 44 letters.
- The national dish for Hungary is gulyas (goulash).
- Hungarians have won more than 465 Olympic medals.
- Hungary also has one of the oldest metro railways in the world, dating back to 1896.
- It is considered rude to clink your beer glasses in Hungary.
- Budapest has the highest number of thermal springs in the world.