Key Takeaways:
- Hungary requires a visa for non-EU visitors, with Schengen (Type C), National (Type D), and Transit (Type A) options.
- Application involves determining eligibility, selecting visa type, gathering documents, scheduling an appointment, paying fees, and attending an interview.
- Specific requirements apply for minors, business, and student visas; recent changes include new permits and stricter conditions starting in 2024.
Obtaining a Hungary Visa: A Comprehensive Guide
Hungary, a charming European nation and member of the Schengen Area, requires visitors from many non-EU countries to obtain a visa before entry. This guide provides detailed information on the visa application process, required documents, and important considerations for those planning to visit Hungary.
What Types of Hungary Visas Are Available?
Hungary offers several types of visas depending on the purpose and duration of your stay:
- Short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C): For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Long-stay National Visa (Type D): For stays exceeding 90 days.
- Airport Transit Visa (Type A): For travelers transiting through Hungarian airports.
How Do I Start the Visa Application Process?
Step 1: Determine Visa Eligibility
Check if you need a visa to enter Hungary. Citizens of EU/EEA countries and some other nations can enter visa-free. From 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization before entry.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Visa Type
Select the visa type that matches your travel purpose, such as tourism, business, or study.
Step 3: What Documents Are Required for a Hungary Visa?
Compile all necessary documents, which typically include:
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. Available online or at the Hungarian embassy/consulate.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Hungary, issued within the last 10 years, and have at least two blank pages.
- Passport-sized Photographs: Recent (not older than 3 months), 35x45mm in size, with a white background. Your face should occupy 70-80% of the photo.
- Schengen Travel Insurance: Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
- Travel Itinerary: Detailed plan of your trip, including flight reservations (not tickets) and accommodation bookings.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations, rental agreements, or invitation letter from a host in Hungary.
- Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements (last 3-6 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your stay (approximately €65 per day).
- Employment Documentation: Employment contract, leave approval, recent pay slips for employed individuals, and business registration or tax returns for self-employed applicants.
- Cover Letter: Explaining the purpose of your visit, intended activities, and travel plans.
- Proof of Civil Status: Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc., if applicable.
- Previous Schengen Visas: Copies of visas issued in the last 3 years, if any.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
Contact the nearest Hungarian embassy, consulate, or authorized Visa Application Center to schedule your visa appointment.
Step 5: How Much is the Visa Fee?
The Schengen visa fee is currently €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12. Some categories may be exempt or eligible for reduced fees.
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview
Present all required documents and answer questions about your trip. Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be collected if not already on file.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
Visa processing typically takes 15 calendar days but can extend up to 30 days in some cases. Plan to apply at least 15 days before your intended travel date, but not earlier than 6 months before.
What Are Important Considerations for Specific Cases?
For Minors
Applicants under 18 must provide:
- Birth certificate
- Parental authorization signed by both parents
- Copies of parents’ passports or ID cards
For Business Visas
Additional requirements include:
- Invitation letter from Hungarian company
- Letter from employer stating purpose of visit
- Proof of previous business relations, if applicable
For Student Visas
Require:
- Acceptance letter from Hungarian educational institution
- Proof of paid tuition fees
- Proof of sufficient funds for the study period
What Are the Recent Changes and Updates?
As of March 1, 2024, Hungary has implemented significant changes to its immigration system:
- New Permit Types: Introduction of new permit types, including a “guest worker” permit and a “Hungarian Card” for highly-skilled workers.
- Stricter Conditions: Stricter conditions for certain residence permits, including a “social coexistence” requirement proven through a Hungarian culture exam (effective from January 1, 2025).
- Permit Validity Changes: Changes to permit validity periods and renewal processes.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Well in Advance: Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
- Complete and Accurate Documentation: Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and translated into English or Hungarian if required.
- Be Ready for Additional Requests: Be prepared to provide additional documents if requested by the embassy.
- Consistent Narrative: Maintain a consistent and credible narrative throughout your application and interview.
- Research for Long-term Visas: If applying for a long-term visa, research the specific requirements for your intended purpose of stay.
What Should You Do After Receiving Your Visa?
- Check Accuracy: Check the visa sticker for accuracy of personal information and travel dates.
- Validity Period: Ensure you enter Hungary within the validity period of your visa.
- Carry Supporting Documents: Keep all supporting documents with you when traveling, as border officials may request them.
By following this comprehensive guide and meeting all requirements, you’ll be well-prepared for your Hungary visa application. Remember that visa policies can change, so always verify the most current information with official sources before applying.
here are the official government links for Hungary visa application forms, travel information, and related resources:
- Official Hungary Visa Application Forms:
https://konzinfo.mfa.gov.hu/en/visa-application-forms -
General Information for Entering Hungary (Official Consular Services website):
https://konzinfo.mfa.gov.hu/en/how-apply-visa -
Official Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office website (for residence permits and long-term visas):
http://www.bmbah.hu/index.php?lang=en -
Official Enter Hungary online application system for residence permits:
https://enterhungary.gov.hu/eh/ -
U.S. State Department Travel Information for Hungary:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Hungary.html
These official government sources provide the most up-to-date and authoritative information on Hungary visa applications, forms, and travel requirements.
For more detailed information and updates, visit the official Hungarian Immigration website.
As highlighted by VisaVerge.com, following these steps meticulously increases your chances of a successful visa application, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit to Hungary.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
- Schengen Area: A group of 27 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their mutual borders. Hungary is a member, and a visa for the Schengen Area allows travel across all member nations for a short stay.
- Short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C): A visa that permits travelers to stay in Hungary and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is predominantly used for tourism, business, or visiting family.
- ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System): A travel authorization system set to be introduced in 2025 for visa-exempt travelers who wish to enter Schengen Area countries, including Hungary. This system requires a pre-travel authorization but is not a visa.
- Biometric Data: Personal data that includes unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints and photographs. This data is collected during the visa application process to verify the applicant’s identity and enhance security.
- Proof of Financial Means: Documentation, such as recent bank statements, demonstrating that an applicant has sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Hungary. This is a requirement to ensure that travelers can cover their expenses while in the country.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Hungary, a Schengen Area member, requires visas for many non-EU visitors. To apply, determine eligibility, choose the visa type, prepare necessary documents like a valid passport and travel insurance, and schedule an appointment. Visa fees and processing times vary, so plan ahead for a smooth application process.
— By VisaVerge.com
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