Hungary is poised to relaunch its highly anticipated Golden Visa Program in 2025, officially branded as the Guest Investor Program (GIP). Designed for non-EU and non-EEA citizens, this revamped initiative offers an attractive pathway to European residency, providing investors with a renewable 10-year residence permit and a host of exclusive benefits.
Investment Options
The Hungary Golden Visa Program presents three diverse investment routes to suit the needs of international investors:
- Real Estate Investment Funds
- Minimum investment: €250,000
- Available from: July 1, 2024
- Real Estate Acquisition
- Purchase residential property worth €500,000
- Available from: January 1, 2025
- Public Trust Donation
- Non-refundable contribution of €1,000,000
- Funds directed to Hungarian universities and colleges
Key Benefits of the Hungary Golden Visa
Investors opting for Hungary’s Golden Visa Program enjoy several key advantages:
- Long-term Residency
Secure a renewable 10-year residence permit. - Schengen Area Access
Benefit from visa-free travel across all 27 Schengen countries. - Family Inclusion
Extend residency benefits to your spouse, dependent children, and parents over the age of 65. - No Minimum Stay Requirement
Retain your residency status without the obligation to live in Hungary. - Path to Permanent Residency
Eligible for permanent residency after spending 2 years and 3 months in Hungary within a 3-year period. - Opportunity for Citizenship
Qualify for Hungarian citizenship after 8 years of residence, subject to meeting language and integration requirements. - Access to Public Services
Enjoy Hungary’s public healthcare system and educational institutions.
Streamlined Application Process
The application process for Hungary’s Golden Visa is designed to be efficient, typically completed in 4-8 weeks:
- Initial Assessment
- Eligibility evaluation and due diligence screening.
- Document Preparation
- Submission of required documents to Hungarian authorities.
- Pre-Approval
- Receive initial approval before proceeding with the investment.
- Investment Fulfillment
- Complete the investment within 93 days of entering Hungary with a Guest Investor Visa.
- Final Approval
- Submit biometric data for the issuance of the residence permit.
What Makes Hungary’s Golden Visa Unique?
- Affordable Investment Threshold
With options starting at €250,000, it offers one of the most cost-effective entry points for EU residency through investment. - Investment After Pre-Approval
Unlike many programs, the investment is required only after pre-approval, reducing financial risk. - Open to All Nationalities
The program imposes no nationality restrictions, welcoming applicants from diverse regions, including Russia, Belarus, and Iran.
Key Considerations
While Hungary’s Golden Visa offers significant benefits, it’s essential to be aware of these points:
- Work and Business Restrictions
The residence permit does not automatically grant the right to work or start a business in Hungary. - Investment Commitment
Investments must be maintained for a minimum of five years to retain residency. - Citizenship Requirements
Applicants seeking Hungarian citizenship must demonstrate knowledge of the Hungarian language and history.
Conclusion
Hungary’s relaunch of its Golden Visa Program in 2025 marks a new era for investors seeking European residency. With flexible investment options, affordable entry points, and streamlined processes, the Hungarian Guest Investor Program (GIP) is set to become a standout choice in the global investment migration landscape.
Whether your goal is enhanced global mobility, financial security, or a pathway to European citizenship, Hungary’s Golden Visa offers an exceptional opportunity.
Contact us today for expert guidance and ensure your journey to European residency begins with the best support possible.