Hungary’s latest investment immigration initiative, launched in November 2023, is now accepting applications as of July 2024. This program provides a ten-year residency permit, allowing investors easy access to both the EU and the Schengen zone. 

Hungary’s new residency by investment program is exceptionally appealing for several reasons: 

• Affordable Entry: The minimum investment required is just EUR 250,000. 

• Flexible Options: Investors can choose from three different investment pathways. 

• Short Commitment: Investments only need to be held for five years. 

• Long-Term Residency: Secure a ten-year residency permit with visa-free Schengen travel. 

• Renewal Possibility: The residency can be renewed after the initial ten-year period. 

• Family Inclusion: Spouses and children under 18 can be included in the application. 

Fast Processing: The application process is quicker than other EU programs, taking only a few months. 

Hungary’s previous investment immigration program, active from 2013 to 2017, allowed investors to gain permanent residency by purchasing special government bonds worth EUR 250,000 – 300,000. Approximately 6,500 bond packages were sold, granting residency to around 20,000 people from 59 countries. 

Building on this success, the new “Guest Investor Program”, also known as the Hungarian Golden Visa, offers even more attractive terms. Introduced alongside new immigration laws in November 2023, this program became effective on 1 January 2024. 

Investors have three options to choose from: 

1. Real Estate Fund: EUR 250,000 investment in a fund managing Hungarian residential properties. 

2. Direct Real Estate: EUR 500,000 investment in Hungarian residential property, either for personal use or rental (available from January 2025). 

3. Educational or Cultural Donation: EUR 1,000,000 donation to a designated institution (details pending government announcement). 

Starting the application process early is crucial due to high demand. Upon receiving the visa, investors have three months to travel to Hungary and complete their investment (the visa remains valid for six months). 

The steps are as follows: 

1. Visa Application: Submit a pledge to invest in Hungary and provide proof of funds. 

2. Travel to Hungary: Within three months of receiving the visa, travel to Hungary to fulfill the investment pledge. 

3. Residency Permit: After completing the investment and obtaining an investment certificate, apply for the guest investor residence permit for yourself and immediate family members. The initial visa remains valid for six months, allowing free travel within the Schengen zone during the processing period. 

Hungary’s new investment residency program is set to become a top choice for investors seeking European residency. With its affordable entry point, flexible investment options, and swift processing times, this program offers unparalleled benefits and long-term advantages for high-net-worth individuals and their families.