In a strategic move to draw international investments, Hungary has re-introduced its Residency by Investment Program. Mind you- this isn’t their first. With a minimum investment requirement starting at EUR 250,000, applicants can choose from diverse investment avenues while benefiting from swift processing times and access to the Schengen zone. This program not only underscores Hungary’s commitment to fostering international investment but also provides families with an excellent opportunity to establish a foothold in Europe.
Effective July 1, 2024, the Hungarian Residency by Investment Program offers international investors a ten-year residency permit with visa-free access to the Schengen zone. With a minimum investment of EUR 250,000 and diverse investment options, including real estate and cultural donations, this program is distinguished by its affordability and flexibility. It provides a seamless and efficient pathway to European residency, underscoring Hungary’s commitment to attracting global investors.
Not the First for Hungary, and Won’t Be the Last
While the all-new Hungary Golden Visa was officially announced in January 2024, this isn’t Hungary’s first venture into investment programs. From 2013 to 2017, investors could obtain Hungarian permanent residency through an investment in special government bonds. During this period, over 6,500 investors and their families successfully received permanent residency. This continuous evolution of Hungary’s investment programs underscores the country’s commitment to attracting global investors and adapting to changing economic landscapes.
How the Hungarian Golden Visa Works?
High Net Worth Individuals will be presented with three investment options:
– EUR 250,000: Real Estate Investment Funds
– EUR 500,000: Real Estate Acquisition
– EUR 1 million: Non-refundable Public Trust Donations
The Hungary Residency by Investment Program offers qualifying investors a residency permit valid for 10 years, an unprecedented duration in the EU Golden Visa market. Remarkably, investors can receive residency approval and their family’s ID cards before committing any capital. The residency permit is renewable for an additional 10 years, even if the investment is liquidated after the mandatory initial five-year hold period.
This program offers family inclusion, allowing the main applicant to include their spouse and dependents. The Hungarian Golden Visa grants visa-free access to the Schengen Area for 90 out of every 180 days for the entire family. Amid global instability and pandemics, an EU Golden Visa residency is a valuable asset. The entire application process is expected to be completed within 6-8 weeks, and the program is open to all nationalities, including Russians, Belarusians, and Iranians.
Additionally, the program does not require any minimum annual in-country stays, making it highly flexible. It is also the most cost-effective property-based Golden Visa option in the EU, further enhancing its appeal to international investors.
Why Choose Hungary over Other European Golden Visas Programs?
Investing in Hungary’s Residency by Investment Program presents numerous advantages over other European golden visa options. Hungary offers a safer environment with less radical activity compared to other parts of Europe, coupled with political and religious stability, making it an appealing destination for international investors.
The Hungarian government’s immigration policies are notably welcoming to global investors, ensuring a smoother and more inclusive application process. Again, we highlight how the program stands out for its inclusivity, being open to all nationalities, including Iranians, Belarusians, and Russians, which broadens its appeal.
Moreover, Hungary’s program features significantly faster processing times than other European golden visa options, allowing investors to obtain residency more quickly. These factors collectively make Hungary a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient pathway to European residency through investment.
