Hungary sits in the heart of Central Europe, with Budapest's Danube views, thermal baths and nightlife drawing students, remote workers and international companies. Costs are moderate, income tax is a flat 15%, and the country is in the EU and Schengen area. The Hungarian language, however, is famously hard, and administration can be slow.

Visas and residence

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can live and work freely and register their residence. Others usually choose one of these, administered by the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing:

  • White Card: Hungary's digital nomad permit, for people working remotely for a foreign employer or their own foreign company. Applicants need income of at least €3,000 a month, health insurance and accommodation. It is valid for one year and can be renewed for another year.
  • Work permits: employer-sponsored routes for jobs in Hungary, including the Guest Worker permit and the Hungarian Card for skilled workers.
  • Guest Investor Programme: residence through investing in a qualifying real estate fund or a donation to a higher education institution.
  • Student permits: Hungary is popular for medicine and dentistry degrees taught in English.

How much does it cost to live in Hungary?

Our Hungary data puts an average one-bedroom at around $550 a month and a three-bedroom at about $950. Central Budapest districts (V, VI, VII) cost more, while Debrecen, Szeged and Pécs are cheaper. Groceries cost about $220 a month. A monthly Budapest transit pass is inexpensive, and a national pass covers trains and buses across the country.

Hungary's VAT of 27% is the highest in the EU, so imported goods can feel pricey.

How Hungarian tax works

Hungary has a flat personal income tax of 15%, according to the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV). Employees pay a further 18.5% social security contribution. Young people under 25 and mothers with several children qualify for exemptions. Corporate tax is 9%, the lowest in the EU.

White Card holders working for foreign employers generally do not pay Hungarian income tax if they spend less than 183 days a year in the country. If they stay longer, Hungarian tax residency and double tax treaties determine where they pay. Try our tax calculator.

Healthcare

Employees are covered by the public health insurance system (NEAK). Public hospitals are under strain, so many expats use private clinics in Budapest, which are good value. White Card holders must have health insurance.

Daily life

Budapest combines grand 19th-century boulevards with ruin bars in old courtyards, Turkish-era thermal baths such as Széchenyi and Gellért, and the Danube promenade. Hungarians are warm once you get to know them and proud of their language and history. Note that Hungarian names put the family name first.

English is common among younger people in Budapest, but less so elsewhere and in offices. Learning a few phrases is appreciated.

Is Hungary a good place to move?

Hungary suits remote workers, students and professionals who want an affordable EU capital with great culture and nightlife. Comparing budget-friendly EU bases? See our guides to Bulgaria and the Czech Republic.