Registering as a sole trader (egyéni vállalkozó) is the quickest and cheapest way to work for yourself in Hungary. The registration itself is free, done online, and can often be completed the same day. Here is what it involves.
Who can register
EU and EEA nationals can register freely. As a non-EU national, you need a Hungarian residence permit that allows self-employment, in most cases the guest self-employment permit, along with a registered Hungarian address and a tax number. Because the permit is based on the business you plan to run, the timing of the permit and the registration is worth getting right, which is where a lawyer helps.
What you need
- A valid passport or ID.
- Your residence permit and address card.
- A Hungarian tax number.
- For regulated activities (for example trades, food, or healthcare), the relevant qualification or licence.
How to register, step by step
- Log in to the online assistant. Sole proprietor registration is done through the government’s Webes Ügysegéd portal using your Ügyfélkapu (Client Gate) access.
- Choose your activity codes. You select the activities your business will carry out from the official list, and you can have a main activity plus others.
- Pick your tax regime. You choose how you will be taxed, flat-rate, KATA, or the standard rules, at registration. See our guide to self-employment tax to choose.
- Submit. The notice of start of activity is free. Once submitted, you receive your registration number and can begin trading, often the same day.
After you register
- Open a business bank account to keep your finances separate.
- Issue proper invoices for your work.
- Register for VAT if your annual turnover goes above the exemption threshold, which is around 18 million HUF.
- Pay your monthly tax and social contributions, and keep your records.
What it costs
Registration is free. Your ongoing costs are your tax and social contributions, which depend on the regime you choose, and an accountant if you decide to use one. Many sole traders on the simplified regimes handle their own admin, though an accountant is worth it once things get busier.
If you are arranging your residence permit at the same time, our business and self-employment service connects you with a lawyer who can line up the permit and the registration together. Book a consultation to get started.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner register as a sole trader in Hungary?
Yes. EU and EEA nationals can register freely. Non-EU nationals need a residence permit that allows self-employment, usually the guest self-employment permit, plus a registered Hungarian address and a tax number.
How much does it cost to register as a sole trader?
Nothing. Registering a sole proprietorship (egyéni vállalkozó) is free and done online through the Webes Ügysegéd portal with your Ügyfélkapu access, often the same day.
What do I need to register?
A valid passport or ID, your residence permit and address card, a Hungarian tax number, and, for regulated activities, the relevant qualification or licence.
Do I need to register for VAT?
Only if your annual turnover rises above the VAT exemption threshold, which is around 18 million HUF. Below that you can stay VAT-exempt.