Hungary

🇭🇺

Phone Code

+36

Capital

Budapest

Population

9.6 Million

Native Name

Magyarország

Region

Europe

Eastern Europe

Timezone

Central European Time

UTC+01:00

Hungary is a Central European country and EU/Schengen member, known for Budapest's stunning architecture, thermal baths, rich history, and unique Hungarian language. Budapest, the capital straddling the Danube River, features the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, thermal baths (Széchenyi, Gellért), and ruin bars. Visitors are drawn to Budapest's thermal baths and architecture, Danube River cruises, Lake Balaton (Central Europe's largest lake), Eger wine region and castle, Pécs historical center, Tokaj wine region (UNESCO), Hungarian cuisine (goulash, paprika), traditional folk culture, and affordable prices. Hungary offers Central European charm, spa culture, and wine tourism.

Visa Requirements for Hungary

As a Schengen Area member, Hungary follows standard Schengen visa policies. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can enter with just a valid ID card or passport for unlimited stays and can work freely. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many other countries can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area. Those requiring Schengen visas should apply through Hungarian consulates or embassies, submitting completed application forms, passport photographs, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), and proof of financial means. Budapest is a major European tourist destination with millions of visitors annually. Processing typically takes 15 calendar days.

Common Visa Types

Visa-Free Entry (Schengen)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period; applies to entire Schengen Area including Hungary; passport must be valid 3 months beyond departure.

For tourism, business, conferences, visiting friends/family for US, UK, Australia, Canada, and other eligible nationalities.

EU/EEA/Swiss Entry

Unlimited stay; can enter with valid national ID card or passport; freedom of movement rights apply; can work without permit.

For EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens for tourism, work, residence, or any purpose without restrictions.

Schengen Visa (Type C)

Up to 90 days within 180-day period; valid for all Schengen countries; single, double, or multiple entry; processing 15 days.

For short-term stays including tourism, business, cultural events, conferences for nationalities requiring Schengen visa.

National Visa (Type D)

Beyond 90 days; requires specific purpose documentation; leads to residence permit; Hungary-specific, though allows Schengen transit.

For stays exceeding 90 days including work, study, family reunification, or residence in Hungary.

Important Travel Information

Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen Area. Issued within last 10 years.

90/180 rule: Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period across entire Schengen Area, not just Hungary.

Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF), not Euro. Hungary is EU member but not Eurozone. ATMs ubiquitous. Exchange Euros or use ATMs. Cards widely accepted.