Hungary Digital Nomad Visa & Remote Work

 

➡ WHAT ARE THE FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS?

Applicants must have a minimum monthly income of 3,000 euros (or its equivalent in another currency).

➡ HOW LONG CAN YOU STAY?

The initial Digital Nomad Visa (White Card) is valid for up to one year (12 months) from the date of issuance and you can apply for a one-year extension.

➡ WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

➡ HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

About 220 EUR. This is 110 EUR for the application and 110 EUR for the white card.

➡ HOW MUCH WILL YOU PAY IN TAXES?

The personal income tax rate in Hungary is 15%.

Nomad Visa Hungary 2024

The Hungarian White Card, also known as the Digital Nomad Visa, is a unique visa designed for individuals who work remotely and wish to reside in Hungary for up to one year, with the possibility of a further one-year extension. Introduced in 2021, this visa aims to attract digital nomads to Hungary, promoting the country as a prime destination for remote work.

Key Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa

By acquiring the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, you can unlock a variety of advantages:

1. Legal Residency: Gain the right to reside in Hungary for an extended period, typically up to one year, with the option to extend for another year.

2. Flexible Work Options: Work remotely for your employer or clients, regardless of their location, while enjoying the benefits of living in Hungary.

3. Access to Local Services: As a legal resident, access public services, healthcare, and educational facilities available to Hungarian citizens.

4. Travel Opportunities: Travel within the Schengen Area, giving you the chance to explore Europe while maintaining your professional commitments.

Eligibility Requirements for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa

If you’re considering applying for the Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa, understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial. This visa is designed for digital nomads in three categories: employees, freelancers, and company managing directors. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Nationality: The visa is specifically for individuals who are nationals of countries outside the European Union. If you’re from a non-EU country and looking to work remotely from Hungary, this could be an excellent option for you.

2. Remote Work: To qualify, you must be able to work remotely. This means you could be employed by a foreign company and able to carry out your duties online, or you could run your own business using digital technology. The key requirement is that your work does not require a physical location.

3. Income (Updated 2024): Financial stability is crucial. Applicants must have a minimum monthly income of 3,000 euros (or its equivalent in another currency). It’s important to note that this isn’t an average—you need to have earned at least 3,000 euros each month for the six months before your application. Additionally, you’ll need to demonstrate that you can maintain this income level throughout your stay in Hungary.

4. No Gainful Activity in Hungary: While in Hungary, you should not engage in any gainful activity or hold any shares in a Hungarian company. This visa is designed for remote workers whose employment or business activities are based outside of Hungary.

5. Long-term Stay: The digital nomad visa is intended for those planning to stay in Hungary for more than 90 days within a 180-day period. If you’re looking for a short-term stay, this might not be the best option.

These criteria are designed to ensure that digital nomads looking to move to Hungary are financially stable and can successfully carry out their work responsibilities from a remote setting. If you meet these requirements, the Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa could be a fantastic opportunity for you!

Required Documents for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa

To apply for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, you need to provide various documents based on your employment status: general, employee, freelancer, or managing director. Here’s a comprehensive list of the required documents:

1. Application Form: The completed visa application form.
2. Appendix Form: An additional form supplementing the main application.
3. Photocopy of Passport: A complete photocopy of your valid passport.
4. Proof of Accommodation: Documentation proving you have a place to stay in Hungary.
5. Address Report Form: A form reporting your residential address in Hungary.
6. Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance covering your stay in Hungary.
7. Bank Statements: Bank statements showing both your account balance and transaction history for the last six months.

Applying as an Employee

If you are applying as an employee, you will need to provide:

1. Job Contract: A copy of your employment contract.
2. Company Letter: A letter from your employer confirming the possibility of remote work, if not already stated in your contract.
3. Payslips: Payslips from the last six months, proving consistent income.

Applying as a Freelancer

If you are applying as a freelancer, you will need to provide:

1. Business Documentation: Proof that you run a legitimate, registered business. This can include last year’s tax return (optional), invoices, and contracts with clients.
2. Client Contracts: Contracts with clients specifying remote work and income earned, clearly showing that you earn a minimum of 3,000 euros per month. For example, if you have contracts with three different companies, each paying 700 euros per month for your services, you would be eligible for the White Card Resident Permit (WC RP).

Applying as a Managing Director

If you are applying as a managing director, you will need to provide:

1. Business Legitimacy Documents: Documents confirming the legitimacy of your registered business and your role in management or ownership. This can include last year’s tax return (optional), invoices, and client contracts.
2. Company Contracts: Contracts demonstrating that your company earns at least 3,000 euros per month while conducting remote work in Hungary.
3. Salary or Dividend Documentation: Documents showcasing your salary or dividend payments and their regularity. If you pay yourself a director’s salary of less than 3,000 euros, you should supplement it with monthly dividends.
4. Letter of Remote Work Capability: As a manager, you can write a letter stating that you’re capable of remote work.

Applying Costs for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa

When planning to apply for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa, it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved. The fees are divided into several categories:

1. Visa Application Fee: The initial cost for applying for the visa. This payment can be made at the Hungarian embassy or consulate, or online. The fee is approximately 110 EUR (please check the current exchange rate for the exact amount in your local currency).
2. Residence Permit Service Fee (White Card): Once your visa application is approved, you’ll need to pay a service fee for the issuance of the White Card. This fee is also around 110 EUR and can be paid at the National Directorate General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP) office in Hungary, or at the diplomatic or consular mission in EUR or other convertible currency. In some cases, you can also pay in the legal tender of the state where you’re submitting the application.
3. Visa Extension Fee: If you decide to extend your stay beyond the initial visa period, there will be an additional service fee for extending your visa at the NDGAP office. The fee for this procedure is approximately HUF 23,000.
4. Additional Costs for Certain Nationals: For individuals from third-country nationals holding citizenship of a visa-free country and legally residing in Hungary, there’s an extra fee. The administrative service fee for issuing a residence permit for these individuals is around HUF 24,000. This fee should be paid when the application is lodged electronically via NDGAP’s electronic procedure initiation platform, Enter Hungary.

How to Apply for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa

Embarking on your journey to becoming a digital nomad in Hungary involves a two-step process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through it:

Step 1: Submitting the Digital Nomad Visa Application and Entry Visa

Your first step is to schedule an appointment with the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country. During this appointment, you’ll need to submit your visa application along with all the necessary documents.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

1. Gather Your Documents:
   • Collect all necessary documents, including those specific to your income type, and any additional supportive documents.
2. Complete the Application Forms:
   • Fill out the online application forms, including the Application Form for the Residence Permit and the Appendix 17 Form.
3. Schedule an Appointment at the Hungarian Consulate or Embassy:
   • Book an appointment at your local Hungarian consulate or embassy to submit your application and documents in person.
4. Attend Your Appointment:
   • Bring all your completed forms and documents to your appointment, be prepared for a short interview, and pay the visa application fee.
5. Wait for Your Visa:
   • After your interview, patiently wait for the decision on your visa application, which can take up to 30 days.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an entry visa. This visa allows you to travel to Hungary with the specific purpose of living as a digital nomad. Keep in mind that you have a 30-day window to travel to Hungary once you receive your entry visa, so it’s essential to plan your travel accordingly.

Step 2: Applying for the White Card in Hungary

The second part of the process is obtaining the White Card, a Type D long-stay visa that serves as a residence permit. This permit allows you to live in Hungary long-term.

Upon your arrival in Hungary with your entry visa, your next step is to apply for the White Card. It’s crucial to do this within one month of your arrival – the sooner, the better.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

1. Apply for the White Card Residence Permit:
   • Once you’ve received your entry visa, travel to Hungary and apply for the White Card residence permit within 30 days at the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP).
2. Submit Your Application at the NDGAP:
   • Submit your application for the White Card at the NDGAP office in the district where you plan to reside.
3. Receive Your White Card:
   • After your application is approved, your White Card, which serves as your residence permit, will be sent to your provided address.

Navigating through this process can seem daunting, but don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to apply for the nomad visa yourself.

This guide will provide you with all the details you need to make your transition to a digital nomad lifestyle in Hungary as smooth as possible.

Processing Time

As of May 2024, the processing time for the Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa is up to 30 days, although the duration of the application process can vary. The quickest instance has been 8 days. However, on average, the process tends to take around 1 to 1.5 months. This largely depends on whether the applicant submits a complete set of documents initially or if additional documentation needs to be provided during the procedure.

To reduce the processing time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Start Early:
   • Initiate your application process at least two months prior to your planned trip to account for potential delays or complications.
2. Check Your Eligibility:
   • Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria, including having a valid reason for remote work in Hungary and financial self-sufficiency.
3. Prepare Your Documents:
   • Carefully prepare your documents, ensuring they are complete, accurate, and up-to-date. Check if any translations or certifications are required.
4. Follow Instructions:
   • Adhere to the guidelines provided by NDGAP and the Hungarian embassy or consulate, and respect their rules during your appointment.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully apply for the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa and enjoy your time working remotely in this beautiful country.

Tax and Social Security Contributions in Hungary

As a digital nomad residing in Hungary for at least 183 days, you will be considered a tax resident and required to pay taxes, including personal income tax and social contributions.

Tax Rates in Hungary

• Personal Income Tax: 15%
• Employee’s Social Security Tax: 18.5%
• Employer’s Social Contribution Tax: 13%
• Corporate Income Tax: 9%
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): 27%
• Property Tax: 4%

Social Security Contributions

• Self-Employed: You may need to pay social security contributions based on your income.
• Employed by a Hungarian Employer: The employer is responsible for withholding social security contributions from your wages and remitting them to the Hungarian social security authorities.