The Hungary Golden Visa program offers non-EU and non-EEA nationals a structured pathway to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship in Hungary. Here's an overview of the process:
1. Obtaining the Hungary Golden Visa
Investors can acquire a 10-year residence permit by choosing one of the following investment options:
- Real Estate Fund Investment: Contribute a minimum of €250,000 to a Hungarian real estate investment fund registered with the Hungarian National Bank.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Direct Real Estate Purchase: Purchase residential property in Hungary valued at €500,000 or more.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Public Trust Donation: Make a non-refundable donation of €1,000,000 to a Hungarian public interest trust foundation supporting education, science, art, or creativity.
Hungary Golden Visa
2. Transition to Permanent Residency
After holding the residence permit and residing in Hungary for three years, investors become eligible to apply for permanent residency. During this period, the following conditions must be met:
- Continuous Residence: Maintain continuous residence in Hungary, ensuring that absences do not exceed four consecutive months or a total of 270 days over the three years.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Eligibility of Residence Permit: Ensure that the initial residence permit was obtained through eligible means, such as employment, family reunification, or investment.
Hungary Golden Visa
3. Pathway to Citizenship
To qualify for Hungarian citizenship through naturalization, the following criteria must be fulfilled:
- Permanent Residency Duration: Hold permanent residency status in Hungary for at least eight years.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Continuous Residence: Reside in Hungary for more than 180 days each year during the eight-year period, with no single absence exceeding six consecutive months.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in the Hungarian language.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Integration: Show integration into Hungarian society, including knowledge of the country's culture and laws.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Clean Criminal Record: Maintain a clean criminal record throughout the residency period.
Hungary Golden Visa
Benefits of Hungarian Citizenship
Achieving Hungarian citizenship grants several advantages:
- EU Citizenship: As an EU member state, Hungarian citizenship allows individuals to live, work, and study freely across all EU countries.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Visa-Free Travel: Enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide.
Hungary Golden Visa
- Access to Social Services: Benefit from Hungary's healthcare, education, and social welfare systems.
Hungary Golden Visa
By following this structured pathway, investors can transition from temporary residency through the Hungary Golden Visa to permanent residency and, ultimately, full citizenship, unlocking a range of personal and professional opportunities within Hungary and the broader European Union.
