Visa Regulations for Entering Hungary
Hungary is a member of the European Union (EU) and therefore follows the visa regulations of the EU for non-EU citizens. Visitors from countries that are not part of the EU are required to have a valid visa before entering Hungary. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit and the length of stay.
Visa Regulations
Purpose of Visit: Visitors must have a clear and specific purpose for their visit, such as tourism, business, study, work, or family visit. They must have supporting documents for the purpose of their visit and proof of sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Hungary.
Length of Stay: The maximum length of stay in Hungary is determined by the type of visa. Visitors must ensure that their visa covers the entire duration of their stay in Hungary. If they need to extend their stay, they must apply for an extension before their current visa expires.
Supporting Documents: Visitors must provide supporting documents for their visa application, such as a passport, travel itinerary, proof of financial means, and proof of accommodation. The specific documents required depend on the type of visa and the purpose of the visit.
How to Apply: Visitors can apply for a visa by submitting their application, along with the required documents, at the nearest Hungarian embassy or consulate in their home country. They can also apply online through the Hungarian government’s official e-Visa website.
To successfully navigate the visa regulations for entering Hungary, visitors should gather all necessary information and documents before applying for a visa. They should also ensure that they meet all the requirements for the type of visa they are applying for.
Types of Visas in Hungary
- What types of visa are available in Hungary?
There are several types of visas available for entry into Hungary, including:
Short-Term Schengen Visa (C-Visa): This visa is for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period and is valid in all Schengen Area countries. This type of visa is suitable for tourists, business visitors, and participants in short-term cultural, scientific, or sports events.
Long-Term National Visa (D-Visa): This visa is for stays of more than 90 days and is valid only in Hungary. This type of visa is suitable for students, work permit holders, and family members of Hungarian citizens.
Residence Permit: This permit is for non-EU citizens who want to live in Hungary for more than 90 days. This type of permit is suitable for work permit holders, self-employed individuals, and family members of Hungarian citizens.
Detailed information on each type of visa, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and supporting documents, can be found on the official website of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Visa Exemptions in Hungary
- Are there any visa exemptions in Hungary?
Citizens of EU countries do not need a visa to enter Hungary and can stay for an unlimited period. Citizens of some non-EU countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and the United States, are also exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days.
However, visa exemptions may change without notice, so it is always recommended to check the latest visa requirements before traveling to Hungary.
If you are a non-European Union (EU) national and you want to enter Hungary for a stay of longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa prior to your arrival in the country. The visa application should be submitted to the nearest Hungarian consulate or visa center in your country of residence. It is recommended that you apply for the visa at least two months before your intended date of travel.
The relevant authority for visa applications for Hungary is the Hungarian Consular Services. The website provides information about the different types of visas available and the requirements for each.
Where to Apply for a Visa for Hungary
US expats should apply for a visa for Hungary at the Hungarian Embassy in Washington D.C. or at one of the Consulates General in Los Angeles, New York or Houston.
UK expats should apply for a visa for Hungary at the Hungarian Embassy in London or at the Consulate General in Manchester.
Relevant Documents for Hungary
The following documents are required to apply for a visa for Hungary:
- A completed and signed visa application form
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- A travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your expenses during your stay in Hungary
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay
- Proof of accommodation (e.g. a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a host)
- The purpose of your trip (e.g. work, study, tourism) and relevant supporting documents (e.g. work contract, enrolment certificate, etc.)
Additional information about the required documents and the visa application process can be found on the website of the Hungarian Consular Services.
Translations of the required documents are necessary if they are not in Hungarian or English. The translations should be certified and stamped by a professional translator or a relevant authority.
Visa Application Processing Time for Hungary
The processing time for a visa application for Hungary varies depending on the time of year and the volume of applications received by the consular services. On average, the processing time is between 10 and 15 working days. It is recommended that you apply for the visa well in advance of your intended date of travel to allow sufficient time for processing.
Visa Application Cost for Hungary
The cost of a visa for Hungary varies depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. The visa fee for a short-term visa (up to 90 days) is 80 EUR, while the fee for a long-term visa (over 90 days) is 140 EUR.
There may be additional costs associated with obtaining a visa for Hungary, such as the cost of translations, medical examinations, and travel insurance. It is recommended that you check the website of the Hungarian Consular Services or the nearest Hungarian consulate or visa center for the most up-to-date information on fees and associated costs.