Digital Nomad Visa For Hungary - White Card Application and Requirements

Remote workers rejoice! Another country hops on the "Digital Nomad Visa trend."

Hungary is one of the many European Countries that enables nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to legally work and live within its borders. And no, I'm not talking about a work visa or work permit.

The visa in question is Hungary's new Digital Nomad Visa, known as the White Card.

The White Card allows its holders to live and work in Hungary legally.

Applying for the new Hungary Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) can be tricky. That's why I decided to write this post. Here you'll find everything from the financial requirements, application process as well as the required documents:

Let's take a look:

---

Before we discuss the application process of the Hungary DNV, I first need to explain a few key points of the Hungary DNV.

• The Hungry White Card
• The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Is A 2-Part Application
• Who Is Eligible For The White Card aka Digital Nomad Visa?
• How Long Is The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Valid For?
• Where To Apply For The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?
• How Much Is The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Fee?
• What Is The Processing Time For The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?
• Can I Travel To Other European Countries With My White Card?

The Hungry White Card

In short, the Hungry White Card, commonly known as the DNV, is a new type of residency permit that allows you to work legally and live in Hungary. This means you can travel to the capital city of Budapest, work in cafes near Buda, impact hubs, or sit beside the Danube river while working remotely.

The visa will only be granted to third-country nationals who meet the eligibility requirements. The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa is the same as the Hungary D Visa, also known as the Type D Visa for Hungary.

Third-country nationals are defined as:

• non-Hungarian citizens
• non-EU Citizens
• Citizens outside of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and the Schengen Area.
• A stateless person

The National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing defines the white card as: " White Card: a residence permit whose holder is employed in a verified employment relationship in a country other than Hungary or has an ownership share in a company with a verified profit in a country other than Hungary, and in both cases works or manages their company from Hungary using an advanced digital technology solution."

Sounds confusing?

Don't worry! I'll walk you through everything you need to know about the White Card and how to get it.

During this post, I'll refer to the White Card as the Hungry Digital Nomad Visa.

The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Is A 2-Part Application

Similar to Portugal’s D7 Visa, the Hungary DNV is a 2-part application.

• Part 1:

The first part is submitting your DNV application at your local Hungarian Embassy. After your application is approved, you'll receive an entry visa that allows you to enter Hungary.

Once you have your visa, you'll have 30 days to enter Hungary and apply for your White Card.

• Part 2:

Because the White Card is a Type D visa (a long-stay visa). You must travel to Hungary and apply for your White Card at your district's National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. You must apply to authorities responsible for issuing the White Card at your future residence.

After reading this post, you'll know the exact steps you need to take.

Who Is Eligible For The White Card aka Digital Nomad Visa?

Before starting your visa application, you must be sure that you meet the Hungry DNV eligibility requirements.

You are eligible if:

• You are a third-country national.
• You can perform your work obligations using " advanced digital technology solutions ". So in simpler terms, you can work using a laptop, cellphone, wifi, and so on.
• You have a valid employment contract with a company outside of Hungry, or
• You own shares in another company outside of Hungry (must be a profitable company), or
• You have your own company outside of Hungry. However, keep in mind that you must manage your company using advanced digital technology solutions.
• You don't have any shares in a Hungarian company.
• You are not seeking any gainful activity in Hungary.

How Long Is The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Valid For?

Your Hungary DNV will be valid for one year. Afterward, you can extend your visa for an additional year. However, you may only extend your visa once, totaling a maximum of 2 years.

Where To Apply For The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?

According to the government's website, you need to submit your application in person at your local Hungarian Embassy.

Note that you must be in your home country when submitting your application.

Third-country nationals who enjoy visa-free travel and are currently in Hungary can submit their DNV electronically. If this is you, you need to register on the electronic platform of the immigration authority. Check here for more information.

How Much Is The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Fee?

Next, you'll find fees payable for lodging an application as well as extending your DNV:

• The application for the White Card within your home country - $125.25 (EUR 110)
• The service fee for submitting your White Card application within Hungary - $125.55
• The service fee for submitting your application using NDGAP's online portal - $77.26
• The service fee for extending your visa at one of NDGAP's offices (in person) - $112.68
• The service fee for extending your visa using NDGAP's online portal - $75.05

You can make a payment via bank card or a bank deposit (using the cheque supplied by the regional directorate).

Keep in mind that these amounts can change at any time. Therefore, it's best to call your local Hungary Embassy or Consulate before starting the visa application process. Authorities will have the latest updates regarding payable fees and services.

What Is The Processing Time For The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa?

Once you've submitted your DNV application, the regional directorate will evaluate your application within 30 days. After your Hungary DNV has been approved, competent authorities will send your new DNV via post.

You can also collect your DNV in person. However, you need to have a sufficient reason why you cannot receive it via post. This is because the Embassy authorities prefer sending your visa via post instead of you collecting it.

Can I Travel To Other European Countries With My White Card?

Once you've received your white card, you can travel to any country in the Schengen Area without a visa. This is one of the most incredible benefits of being a Digital Nomad in the EU.

With this Hungary Visa, you can enjoy visa-free travel to any of the following Schengen countries:

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

---

Like all visas, you need to submit certain documents for your visa to be successful. For example, for your Hungary DNV to be successful, you need to submit the following required documents:

• Documents That Prove The Purpose Of Your Travel
• Proof Of Financial Means
• Proof Of Accommodation
• Proof Of Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Documents That Meet The Exit Conditions
• Additional Visa Documents

Documents That Prove The Purpose Of Your Travel

Proving the purpose of your trip is the most important part of your Hungary DNV. This is where you prove you're a digital nomad planning to travel to Hungary for remote work. Documents you can include the following: If Employed: You need to submit a certificate from your employer stating:

• The scope of the employer's operations,
• An employment contract proving that you can work remotely. It must also include the duration of your employment,
• The duties you perform for your employer.

If you own a Company or Shares:

A document stating:

• information on the actual operation of the business,
• the duties and the position you hold within the company,
• the scope of the company's activities, and
• their ownership of shares in the company.

In addition, you'll need proof that the company you work for or have shares in actually exists. You can provide:

• The registration number of the company,
• A tax certificate,
• Or any other relevant documents.

Proof Of Financial Means

To be a digital nomad in Hungary, you must prove that you meet the government's financial requirements. For the Hungary DNV, you must have a minimum amount of €2,000 (Euros) per month. Additionally, you must prove that you have previously received this amount for 6 months consecutively before entry.

In simpler terms, if you plan to apply in July, you must prove that you have met the financial requirements from January through June.

Remember

This must be monthly income (recurring).

Documents you can provide include:

• An employment contract stating your salary
• A tax certificate
• Bank account statements
• Any other relevant document that proves your income

Proof Of Accommodation

Seeing as you plan to stay long-term in Hungary, you will need to provide valid proof of accommodation when submitting your DNV application.

Interesting fact:

The Hungarian government is very specific about its accommodation requirements. In fact, your place of stay must show in the real estate register as a residential building, detached house, or any similar property suitable for living. Furthermore, it must have a minimum of 6 square meters of living space per person.

Now, your place of stay doesn't have to be purchased property. It can also be commercial or any other type of accommodation approved by the law.

Here is a list of documents you can provide:

• a rental agreement or lease;
• a document on accommodation by courtesy;
• a document proving ownership of the purchased property, such as a certified copy of the title deed issued within the last 30 days;
• a valid letter of invitation with an official certificate affixed;
• documents that prove you have reserved and paid for suitable accommodation for the duration of your stay (Airbnb, hotel reservation, etc.);
• a notarized statement made by a family member with the right of residence in Hungary (residency status, residence card, etc.), promising to provide you place of stay in Hungary;
• a copy of the decision of the responsible county government body, providing authorization to obtain real estate property. Also, include the real estate sales contract.

Proof Of Comprehensive Travel Insurance

A mandatory requirement for the Hungarian DNV is that you obtain valid health insurance that covers all medical costs during your stay in the country. What's more, it must be valid for the duration of your stay in Hungary.

On the other hand, you don't need to purchase valid health insurance if you can prove you have the funds to cover all medical costs that may occur. The government does not enclose the required amount, but you can expect it to be substantial.

Documents That Meet The Exit Conditions

Finally, you need to prove that you'll depart back to your home country after your visa has expired. Documents you can provide include:

• A valid passport that is required for you to depart back to your home country,
• and a valid return flight ticket, or sufficient funds to purchase such a ticket.

Additional Visa Documents

In addition to the documents listed above, you'll need to submit the following:

• A complete visa application form
• A valid passport (valid for at least 6 months after your departure back to your country of origin)
• 2 passport photos
• Any other relevant COVID-19 documents applicable when submitting your application. Due to the pandemic, travel restrictions change constantly. So be you check these regulations before traveling.
• A statement declaring that you'll return to your home country and leave the European Union (EU) if your application is refused.

---

Now that you know the document requirements, I'll walk you through the steps you should take when applying for your Hungary Digital Nomad Visa.

• 1. Gather All The Required Documents
• 2. Fill In Your Visa Application Form
• 3. Schedule And Attend Your Visa Appointment
• 4. Wait For Feedback
• 5. Travel To Hungary And Get Your White Card

1. Gather All The Required Documents

The first step is to collect all the required documents for your Hungary DNV. Ensure that you make copies of all your documents and keep them safe for future use. If you can collect any additional documents that prove the purpose of your trip, do so.

The most effective way to gather your documents is through a document checklist. It helps you keep track of the documents you already have and those you still need.

2. Fill In Your Visa Application Form

Next, start filling out you're visa application form. It's important to double-check the information you provide. Be sure that everything is correct and accurate.

This might seem like common knowledge, but you'd be surprised how many applications are delayed due to incorrect information.

Pro tip: Under "purpose of my stay," select "other" and enter* remote work*. Then, when Embassy authorities process your application, they'll process it as a Digital Nomad Visa.

3. Schedule And Attend Your Visa Appointment

Once you've done the 2 steps mentioned above, you need to submit your visa application in person at your local Embassy. Typically, you'll need to schedule an appointment to submit your visa application.

You'll submit your application and your required documents at your visa appointments. You'll also need to attend an in-person interview with an embassy staff member.

During the interview, you'll be asked a few questions about your stay in Hungary. Answer these questions truthfully. Remember, you can also use your supporting documents to help prove the purpose of your trip.

You're also required to submit your biometric information after the interview. Your biometric information will consist of a digital photograph and your fingerprints.

4. Wait For Feedback

The hard part is over.

Now you need to wait for your visa to be processed. As mentioned, this will take around 30 days. Finally, if your visa application is approved, competent authorities will issue it and send it to you via post.

The visa you'll receive is a single entry visa valid for 30 days.

5. Travel To Hungary And Get Your White Card

This is the second part of the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa application process. After that, you'll use your entry visa to travel to Hungary.

Remember

This is not your White Card. It's only used to enter Hungary.

The rule is that you must enter and apply for your White Card within 30 days of receiving your entry visa.

After arriving in Hungary, you need to travel to the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing within your district (of your new home).

Here's how it works:

As soon as your entry visa has been approved, embassy authorities will notify the competent consulate officer (in Hungary) about your application. Once you arrive at the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing, your new Residence Permit in Hungary will be issued.

Ensure you have all your supporting documents when traveling to get your White Card. Should competent officers ask for anything specific (like proof of accommodation), you'll have it with you.

And there you have it. You've successfully obtained your Hungary Digital Nomad Visa.

---

Now that we have all the visa information out of the way, I thought I should also tell you some important information about Budapest for digital nomads. In this section, I will explain Hungary's average cost of living, internet speed, and where Digital Nomads typically work.

• What Is The Cost Of Living In Hungary?
• What Is The Internet Speed In Hungary?
• Where Are Considered The Best Co-Working Spaces In Hungary?

What Is The Cost Of Living In Hungary?

Hungary is considered a low-cost country, meaning you can expect a low cost of living. For that reason, I will list the most important expenses you must be aware of:

• Single Bedroom flat in Budapest: 163,490 Ft per month (405 USD)
• Single Bedroom flat in Debrecen: 117,429 Ft per month (290 USD)
• Single Bedroom flat in Szeged: 101,667 Ft per month (252 USD)
• Meal for 2 (mid-range restaurant with 3 courses): average of 10,250 Ft (25 USD)
• Monthly Public Transport pass: average of 7,700 FT (19 USD)
• Electricity and internet: average of 50,000 Ft per month (370 USD)

Remember that the prices can change depending on your living area. For example, Budapest will have a higher living cost than cities on the outskirts. Also, remember that currency can change, so before you travel to Hungary, ensure that you are aware of any currency changes.

What Is The Internet Speed In Hungary?

Hungary is rated the country with the fastest internet speed in Central Europe. Hungary has reported an average download speed of 172.10 Mbit/s. Hungary ranks in the top 20 countries with the fastest internet speeds.

Where Are Considered The Best Co-Working Spaces In Hungary?

Co-working spaces in Hungary range from coffee shops and cafes to official co-working spaces that require a monthly subscription. Here is a list of the best co-working spaces in Hungary:

• Loffice
• Muse Coworking
• KAPTÁR Coworking
• Impact Hub Budapest
• FRoffice Coworking

---

Now that you've received your White Card, there are a few things you need to know about:

• With your White Card, you're allowed to visit any of the Schengen Member States for a maximum of 90 days within a 180 day period. Meaning you don't need a tourist visa to visit these countries.
• You're required, by law, to notify authorities if your employment has been terminated within 5 days of termination.
• Based on familial relations, no residence permit may be granted to your family members if you already have a White Card.
• You must always have your White Card on your person.

And there you have it. The Hungary Digital Nomad Visa. After reading this post, you'll be able to confidently and successfully apply for your own Hungary DNV.