How to Apply for Hungary's Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

For digital nomads looking to work remotely while experiencing the culture and beauty of Europe, Hungary has introduced an attractive solution: the Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the White Card. With its affordable living costs, high-speed internet, and access to the entire Schengen area, Hungary is quickly becoming a top destination for remote workers. If you’re considering applying for Hungary’s Digital Nomad Visa in 2025, this guide provides everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to the application process.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa in Hungary?

Hungary’s Digital Nomad Visa, or White Card, was introduced in November 2021 as part of the country’s broader immigration strategy. The visa is aimed at remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who wish to live in Hungary while maintaining their jobs and income from outside the country. It provides an opportunity for nomads to stay in Hungary temporarily without being required to enter the local labor market, a feature that makes the visa highly attractive to international professionals.

The visa is valid for an initial period of one year, with the option to extend it for an additional year. Digital nomads can enjoy the benefits of a thriving cultural and work environment while benefiting from Hungary’s affordable living costs and high quality of life.

Who is Eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa?

The White Card is available to non-EU citizens who work remotely for companies outside Hungary or run their own business. As a remote worker, you will not be allowed to engage in any paid activities for Hungarian companies under this visa. However, you are free to continue working with your foreign employer or business.

Here are the key eligibility criteria for the visa:

• You must be a non-EU citizen.
• You must have a valid passport.
• Proof of sufficient income (typically around 2,000 to 2,500 euros per month).
• Proof of remote employment or self-employment.
• International health insurance that covers your stay.
• A proof of accommodation in Hungary (e.g., lease or hotel reservation).

Key Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa

1. Stay and Work Flexibility: The Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa offers the flexibility to live and work in Hungary for up to two years (one year initially, extendable for another year).

2. Travel Freedom within the Schengen Area: As Hungary is part of the Schengen Zone, the visa also allows you to travel freely to the other 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

3. Affordable Cost of Living: Hungary offers an affordable standard of living, especially when compared to other major European destinations. Cities like Budapest provide the amenities of a large city, with low costs for accommodation, food, and entertainment.

4. High-Speed Internet and Modern Infrastructure: Hungary boasts excellent internet connectivity and modern infrastructure, making it easy for digital nomads to stay productive while enjoying the local culture. To stay connected during your time in Hungary, consider using RAPIDeSIM, a reliable eSIM service that ensures you have uninterrupted internet access throughout your stay.

5. Cultural and Professional Growth: Hungary’s vibrant history, arts, and culture, paired with its growing tech and startup ecosystem, offers digital nomads a perfect mix of work and life experiences.
   

How to Apply for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

The process to apply for the Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa (White Card) is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. The application can be completed either through a Hungarian embassy in your country or directly in Hungary if you are already residing there.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying

1. Gather Required Documents:

   • Completed visa application form.
   • A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
   • Proof of remote employment or self-employment (such as employment contracts, business ownership documents, or freelance invoices).
   • Proof of income (bank statements, contracts, etc.) showing a monthly income of at least 2,000 to 2,500 euros.
   • International health insurance policy covering your stay in Hungary.
   • Proof of accommodation in Hungary (e.g., lease, reservation).
   • Recent passport-sized photographs.

2. Schedule an Appointment at the Embassy (for applicants outside Hungary):

   • Contact the nearest Hungarian embassy to schedule an appointment for submitting your visa application.

3. Submit Your Application:

   • During your appointment, submit all required documents. Be sure to bring copies of each document for reference.

4. Pay the Application Fee:

   • The application fee is approximately 110 euros ($120). This fee is payable directly to the embassy or consulate at the time of your appointment.

5. Wait for Approval:

   • The processing time for the visa can take between 15 and 30 working days. Keep track of your application status through the embassy or consulate.

6. Pick Up Your Visa:

   • Once your application is approved, you will receive your White Card at the embassy or have it mailed to you, depending on the embassy’s procedure.

If you are already in Hungary, you can apply for the visa at the National Directorate of Aliens Police (NDGAP) in Budapest.

How Much Does the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Cost?

The costs associated with the Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa are as follows:

• Application Fee: 110 euros ($120).
• White Card Issuance Fee: 110 euros ($120).
• Visa Extension Fee: 23,000 HUF (approximately 65 euros or 70.85 USD).

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

• Ensure all required documents are complete and up-to-date before submitting your application.
• If you are applying from outside Hungary, double-check the specific embassy requirements.
• Consider using a local visa consultancy service, such as Visa and Migration Services, to streamline your application.

Conclusion

Hungary’s Digital Nomad Visa (White Card) offers remote workers the perfect opportunity to live and work in Europe for an extended period while enjoying the country’s cultural richness and low cost of living. With an easy application process and the added benefit of access to the Schengen area, Hungary is an increasingly attractive destination for digital nomads in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Digital Nomad Visa in Hungary

1. How long can I stay in Hungary on the Digital Nomad Visa?

   • The visa allows you to stay in Hungary for one year, with an option for a one-year extension.

2. Can I work for a company in another country while I have a Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa?

   • Yes, the White Card allows you to work for foreign employers and run your own remote business.

3. Do I need to speak Hungarian to apply for the visa?

   • No, the visa application process can be completed in English or other languages available at Hungarian embassies.

4. Can I travel to other Schengen countries with this visa?

   • Yes, the visa allows you to travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

5. How long does the visa application process take?

   • It usually takes between 15 and 30 working days to process the application.

6. Can I apply for the visa from any country?

   • Yes, you can apply for the visa from any country where there is a Hungarian embassy or consulate.

7. Can I take my family with me with the digital nomad visa?

   • 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.

8. Can I study while I have a digital nomad visa?

   • 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.