When you finish this guide, you’ll know exactly what the Hungary Guest Investor Residence Permit is, how to qualify, and the unique steps you can take before anyone else. I’ve woven in fresh insights—like new integration exams, deadlines on property investments, and digital application tips—so you’ll have the clearest path forward.

What Is the Guest Investor Residence Permit?

Hungary relaunched its investor program in 2022 after scrapping the old Golden Visa scheme in 2017 due to security and financial concerns. Now called the Guest Investor Residence Permit (GIRP), it gives you legal residency in Hungary and visa-free travel across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

“The Guest Investor Residence Permit marks a major shift toward transparent, merit-based residency by investment,” says Maria Kovács of ExpatFocus.

Investment Options and Eligibility

To qualify, you must choose one of three routes. You don’t need to finalize your investment before entry—just declare your intent, arrive in Hungary, and complete it within three months.

1. Real Estate Funds
2. Invest in a government-approved real estate fund.
3. Donation
4. Make a non-refundable EUR 1 million contribution to a higher-education institution supporting research or the arts.
5. Residential Property Purchase (Limited Time)
6. Buy a home worth at least EUR 500 000 by January 1, 2025. After that date, this option vanishes.

Why the Deadline Matters

• You have until the end of 2024 to secure a qualifying property—no extensions.
• If you miss it, you’ll need to pick between funds or the hefty donation.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying happens entirely online through the Enter Hungary portal.

1. Create an account at Enter Hungary.
2. Fill out the residence permit application form.
3. Upload scanned documents (passport, proof of funds, clean criminal record).
4. Pay the application fee (€60–€120).
5. Book a biometric appointment at your nearest consulate or in Hungary.

Your permit arrives within 60 days of submission if everything checks out.

Key Documents You’ll Need

• Valid passport and passport photos
• Evidence of your chosen investment route
• Clean criminal-record certificate
• Health insurance covering Hungary

Immediate Benefits You Gain

• Schengen Travel: 90 days visa-free within any 180-day window.
• Family Inclusion: Your spouse and minor children qualify for the same residency and work permits.
• Ten-Year Permit: It’s valid for a decade and renewable for another ten as long as your investment remains in place.

Charting Your Path to Long-Term Stay and Citizenship

After three years of lawful residence under the GIRP, you become eligible for permanent residency. Citizenship normally follows after eight years of continuous stay—spouses and minor dependents often face shorter waiting periods.

A New Focus on Cultural Integration

Starting January 1, 2025, every applicant for permanent residence or citizenship must pass a Hungarian culture and language exam. It’s a written test on history, basic laws, and everyday language skills.

Your Next Move

This program gives you a straightforward path to live in Hungary and explore the entire Schengen Area. If you’re ready to invest—and eager to integrate—now is the time to act, especially if you want that property-purchase route before it disappears. Plan your strategy, gather your documents, and submit your application through Enter Hungary. Welcome to your new European home!