There are many reasons to move to Hungary: convenient geographical location, relatively low cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and much more. If you work remotely for a company, the white card – digital nomad visa in Hungary can be an excellent basis for obtaining a residence permit. With the white card, you can not only live in Hungary but also stay in any Schengen country for up to 90 days.
The white card is suitable for foreigners who are not EU citizens, as well as
- work remotely under an employment contract for a company located outside Hungary;
- have a share in a company outside Hungary and can work/manage the company remotely.
What are the main requirements and documents for obtaining a digital nomad visa in Hungary?
- The foreigner must show a monthly income of 3000 euros for the last 6 months – this is confirmed by a bank statement, and a certificate from the employer or tax authority;
- Proof of remote worker status. For employees, this is an employment contract specifying the company’s activities, the employee’s responsibilities, and the ability to work remotely. For company executives – a document indicating the position and confirming ownership of shares.
- Documents confirming the company’s actual activity – extracts from registers, certificates from the tax authorities regarding tax payments, etc.
- Proof of accommodation in Hungary. It is necessary to show ownership of property or a lease agreement for the duration of the residence permit.
- Availability of insurance for the entire duration of the residence permit.
- Confirmation that the foreigner can leave the country in case of refusal of the residence permit or expiration of its validity – a valid passport and a return ticket/enough money for a ticket.
- Written statement to leave Hungary in case of refusal of the residence permit.
Application methods
- If you are from a visa country, you will first need to submit documents for a digital nomad visa in Hungary to the Hungarian consulate in your country of citizenship or residence. After receiving the visa, you will need to enter Hungary within 30 days and submit documents to obtain the white card residence permit (fehér kártya).
- If you can enter Hungary visa-free, you can submit documents for a residence permit directly from there.
The processing time for residence permit documents is about 1 month. Residence permit validity period – 1 year.
Documents for extending the residence permit must be submitted at least 30 days before its expiration. To extend the residence permit, you must stay in Hungary for at least 90 days within any 180-day period.
Digital nomad visa in Hungary drawbacks
- The residence permit can only be extended once for 1 year. After 2 years of residence under the white card, the foreigner will have to leave the country or reapply for a residence permit on another basis.
- The period of residence under the white card does not count towards the required 5 years for obtaining permanent residency in Hungary.
- The right to reside in Hungary is granted only to the applicant themselves; unfortunately, family members cannot be added to the application.
- It is not allowed to leave Hungary for more than 90 days out of 180.
Taxes paid by digital nomads in Hungary
A digital nomad is not considered a tax resident if they have lived in Hungary for less than 183 days in a calendar year. In this case, they do not need to pay taxes in Hungary, but they must declare income. If the nomad obtains tax resident status, they are obliged to pay 15% personal income tax, as well as a social security contribution of 18.5%. Foreigners can also apply international agreements on double taxation avoidance signed between Hungary and their country of income origin.
Conclusion
The white card – digital nomad visa in Hungary opens doors for remote workers, providing them with a unique opportunity to live and work in this beautiful Central European country. The program offers flexible conditions for obtaining a visa, allowing digital nomads to enjoy the benefits of living and working in Hungary without unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles.
Other immigration options can be found here on our website.
If you want to try living in Europe without changing your job, contact us and we will be happy to help you!
