How to Apply for the Hungary White Card Permit
The White Card is Hungary’s residence permit for remote workers who wish to live in Hungary for up to one year, with an option for a one-year extension. Introduced in 2021, this permit allows individuals to reside in Hungary while being employed by a foreign company or conducting freelance work.
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Eligibility Requirements
You May Qualify If:
- Verified employment relationship or ownership in a profitable company outside Hungary
- Work performed remotely using advanced digital technology
- No gainful activity or company shares in Hungary
- Monthly income of at least EUR 3,000 for the last six months
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Suitable accommodation in Hungary
- Valid passport
You Do NOT Qualify If:
- You meet conditions for other residence permits (employment, self-employment, etc.)
- You have a student residence permit or short-term traineeship
- You are posted to work in Hungary
- You have applied for or been granted refugee status, protection, or tolerated status
- Your expulsion has been suspended
- You hold an EC residence permit or EU residence card
- You are in the EU for intra-corporate transfer or as a highly qualified worker
Critical Restrictions to Know
Before applying, understand these major limitations:
- No Pathway to Permanent Residence: The White Card does NOT lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Hungary
- Cannot Switch Permits: During the validity of the White Card and even after it expires, you cannot apply for a different type of residence permit for another purpose
- Family Reunification Blocked: Family members cannot join you through family reunification permits (exception: children born in Hungary during permit validity)
- Maximum 2 Years: Can only be extended once, for a maximum total stay of 2 years
- Employment Prohibited: Any employment or ownership in a Hungarian company will result in immediate withdrawal of your permit
White Card Permit Overview
| ⏳ Duration | 1 year, renewable for 1 additional year (maximum 2 years total) |
| 💶 Minimum Monthly Income | EUR 3,000 net |
| 🌍 Eligibility | Non-EU/EEA nationals, remote work for a foreign company |
| 💰 Application Fee | EUR 110 (outside Hungary) | HUF 39,000 (in-person) | HUF 24,000 (online) |
| 🏥 Health Insurance | Comprehensive coverage required |
| 🛂 Travel Requirements | Valid passport, necessary permits, sufficient funds OR ticket for departure |
| 👨👩👧👦 Family Members | Cannot apply for family reunification permits (except children born during permit validity) |
| 🚫 Work Restrictions | No employment or ownership of a company in Hungary |
Benefits include: Legal residency, flexible work options, access to local services such as healthcare and education, and the ability to travel within the Schengen Area.
Will you pay tax in Hungary on the White Card?
This is the question most remote workers ask, and it comes down to your tax residency, which is separate from your residence permit.
Hungary generally treats you as a tax resident if you spend 183 days or more in the country during a calendar year, counted cumulatively rather than in one block, or if your centre of vital interests, meaning your main home and personal ties, sits in Hungary. What that means for your tax:
| Your tax status | What it means |
|---|---|
| Not a Hungarian tax resident | You generally pay no Hungarian income tax on your foreign earnings, though you may still need to declare them. |
| A Hungarian tax resident | Your worldwide income becomes taxable in Hungary, at the flat personal income tax rate of 15 percent. |
Hungary also has double taxation treaties with many countries, which are designed to stop the same income being taxed twice, so tax you have already paid at home is usually taken into account. Because the outcome depends on your own circumstances and your home country’s rules, it is worth getting your position confirmed before you move. If you would like to speak to a tax lawyer about your situation, get in touch and we can help.
How to Apply
Applying for the Type D National Visa (Digital Nomad Visa)
If you are a non-EU/EEA national from a country that requires a visa to enter Hungary, the process works in two stages. First, you need to apply for a Type D National Visa. This is the official entry visa. For this specific purpose it is commonly referred to as the “Digital Nomad Visa”, though that is simply a colloquial name; officially it is a Type D National Visa like any other long-stay national visa. This visa allows you to travel to Hungary specifically to obtain the White Card residence permit. It is designed for those with a verified employment relationship or ownership in a profitable company outside Hungary who plan to work remotely using digital technology. Once you arrive in Hungary on your Type D visa, you then complete the White Card application process in-country.
Applying Directly for the White Card Permit
If you are from a visa-free country, you can travel directly to Hungary and apply for the White Card permit without needing a digital nomad visa. This streamlined process allows you to bypass the initial visa application and proceed directly to the White Card application upon arrival. The White Card permits you to reside in Hungary while working remotely, ensuring you meet all the necessary criteria for livelihood, accommodation, and comprehensive healthcare.
Fee Rates for White Card Application
| Outside Hungary | EUR 110 |
| In-Person (within Hungary) | HUF 39,000 |
| Online via Enter Hungary | HUF 24,000 |
Document Checklist
You will need the following documents for your White Card application:
Full copy of every page
No older than three months
Last 6 months showing EUR 3,000+ monthly income
Certificate showing at least EUR 3,000 per month for the last six months
Valid passport AND travel ticket OR sufficient funds
Important: All non-Hungarian/non-English documents require certified Hungarian translation and may need apostille authentication.
Step-by-Step Guide
Complete the Application Form and Appendix
Fill out the necessary paperwork including the main application form and appendices.
Prepare Your Passport
Provide a full copy of every page of your valid passport. Your passport should be valid for at least three additional months beyond the planned expiration date of your residence permit.
Get Your ID Photo
You will need an ID picture that is no older than three months. Bring an original picture when you go to the consulate in person.
Gather Bank Account Statements
Collect your bank account statements showing activity for the last six months. These statements are essential for proving your income requirement of EUR 3,000 per month for at least 6 months.
Important: If the documents are not in Hungarian or English, you must have them translated by a certified translator.
Provide Current Bank Account Balance
Show proof of your current bank account balance. This information can come from either a Hungarian or foreign bank.
Verify Health Insurance
You must demonstrate that you have adequate health insurance coverage for your stay in Hungary. This can be done by providing:
- A social insurance card if you have coverage in Hungary
- An insurance contract with a Hungarian social insurance company
- Bank account balance to prove you can cover potential healthcare expenses
Popular Hungarian Health Insurance Options:
- TESTŐR package from Generali Zrt: Hospital stay and accident insurance for approximately 46,000 Ft per year
- Medicover: Comprehensive private health insurance
- Generali: Various private insurance options
Secure Accommodation Documents
You’ll need to show you have a place to stay while in Hungary:
- Rental Agreement: A signed lease for a place you’ll be renting
- Courtesy Accommodation: Official accommodation declaration signed by host
- Proof of Ownership: If you own a property, provide ownership documents
- Hotel Booking: Show reservation and proof of payment
Recommendation: Provide proof of accommodation that covers as much of your stay in Hungary as possible, ideally for the entire year. However, providing accommodation proof for several months can also be acceptable.
Prepare Power of Attorney (If Using Professional Service)
If someone else is handling the application process for you, ensure you have a power of attorney document prepared and signed. This document authorizes them to act on your behalf and may require notarization.
Obtain an Income Certificate
You need a certificate that verifies your legal income. This document should show that your monthly income was at least EUR 3,000 net for at least six months before your entry into Hungary. Additionally, you must maintain this income level throughout your stay.
The income certificate may be:
- Bank statements for the previous 6 months showing regular income
- A certificate evidencing regular income issued by your employer
- A certificate from the tax authority
Verify Employment or Business Ownership
⚠️ IMPORTANT: All employment and business documentation must be authenticated and may require certified translation if not in Hungarian or English. Documents issued abroad typically require diplomatic authentication (apostille).
For Employees Working Remotely
Provide an official certificate from your employer outside Hungary. This document must be authenticated and should include:
- The employer’s scope of activities
- Confirmation that work may be performed electronically as remote work
- The approved duration of remote work
- Your duties, job title, and position
- Proof that your employer is a legitimate, operating business
Additional supporting documents:
- Your employment contract
- Letter from your company confirming remote work authorization
- Payslips from the last six months
- Company registration documents
- Tax authority certificates
For Business Owners
If you own a share in a profit-generating company outside Hungary and manage it remotely, provide documentation confirming:
- The actual and genuine operation of the company
- Your position and role within the company
- The company’s scope of activities
- Your ownership interest in the company
Evidence of genuine business operation must include:
- Official company registration documents
- Tax authority certificates proving regular income or profit
- Business bank statements showing active operations
- Contracts, invoices, or business correspondence
For Freelancers
If you work as a freelancer, you typically need to show either:
- Registration as a sole proprietor/self-employed in your home country (treated as business owner)
- Employment contracts with multiple clients totaling EUR 3,000+ monthly (treated as remote employee)
Provide documentation such as:
- Business registration documents
- Last year’s tax return
- Invoices and contracts with clients
- Bank statements demonstrating consistent EUR 3,000+ monthly income
Submitting Your Application
If you are a non-EU/EEA national who requires a visa to enter Hungary, follow the steps below. If you are from a visa-free country, you can apply online or in-person once in Hungary.
For Non-Visa-Free Nationals (Apply at Embassy/Consulate)
Submit Your White Card Application
Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa at your local Hungarian consulate or embassy in your home country.
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact the embassy to schedule an appointment
- Attend the Appointment: Bring all your documents. Arrive early to avoid delays
- Pay the Application Fee: EUR 110 (confirm acceptable payment methods beforehand)
Important: If there are no Hungarian consulates or embassies in your country, you may need to contact honorary consuls, trade representations, or authorized external service providers.
Await Approval
Processing times typically take 21 days, but the final decision must be made within 30 days.
Important: The National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP) may request additional documents. Time spent requesting and receiving additional documentation is not included in the 21-day processing period.
Receive Your Type D Visa
Once approved, you will receive a Type D Digital Nomad Visa, allowing you to enter Hungary.
⚠️ CRITICAL DEADLINES:
- Your Type D visa is valid for 3 months from the date of approval
- The visa is a single-entry visa authorizing a stay of not more than 30 days
- If you do not travel to Hungary within this 3-month period, your application will become invalid
Visit Immigration Office for Biometric Data
Once you enter Hungary, you have 30 days to make an appointment and visit the Directorate General for Aliens Policing to submit your biometrics data. This deadline is firm.
For Visa-Free Nationals (Apply Online or In-Person)
If you are from a visa-free country, you can apply online via the Enter Hungary platform or in person at the NDGAP regional directorate.
Electronic Submission (Recommended)
Submit your application via the Enter Hungary platform. Ensure the electronic application form is filled out accurately and completely.
Payment: HUF 24,000 by credit card as part of the electronic application process.
In-Person Submission
Submit your application in person at the competent regional directorate of the NDGAP according to your place of accommodation.
Payment: HUF 39,000 by credit card, postal cheque, or bank transfer.
Visit Immigration Office for Biometric Data
You will need to visit the NDGAP regional directorate to provide biometric data (facial photograph and fingerprints).
Deadline: You have 15 days from the date of confirmation to complete the biometric identification in person.
Documents to bring:
- Your passport
- An ID picture
- Your case number
- The signed application form and appendix
Receive Your White Card Residence Permit
Once your application is approved, the residence permit document will be mailed to the address you provided. Delivery typically occurs 2-4 weeks after your biometrics appointment.
If your card doesn’t arrive: If it doesn’t arrive within 3-4 weeks, check the tracking number and inquire about the delivery progress at the immigration office.
Processing Timeline Summary
Standard processing: 21 days | Maximum decision time: 30 days
(For non-visa-free applicants only)
(For non-visa-free applicants)
Within 15-30 days depending on applicant type
2-4 weeks after biometrics
Additional time not included in processing:
- Time spent requesting and receiving additional documents from applicant
- Time spent remedying deficiencies (e.g., submitting missing documents)
- Time for various other procedural actions
Not sure which permit fits your situation?
Book a one-hour consultation with a licensed immigration lawyer. €150, credited toward full service if you proceed.
Book ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Who can get a White Card?
You can get a White Card if you work for a company outside Hungary and do your job from Hungary using digital technology, or if you own a share in a profitable company outside Hungary and manage it from Hungary using digital technology. You can’t apply if you work in Hungary or own a share in a Hungarian company.
What documents do I need for the White Card application?
You need proof of your job or business outside Hungary, proof of income showing at least EUR 3,000 per month for at least 6 months before you apply, proof of a place to stay in Hungary, proof of health insurance, proof of exit plans (valid passport AND travel ticket OR sufficient funds for travel), and a facial photo.
Who can’t get a White Card?
You can’t get a White Card if you meet the conditions for other residence permits (like for self-employment or investment), have a student residence permit, are posted in Hungary, have applied for or been granted refugee status or protection, have tolerated status or a suspended expulsion, hold an EC residence permit or EU residence card, or are in the EU for an intra-corporate transfer or as a highly qualified worker.
What does ‘third-country nationals’ mean?
Third-country nationals are people who are not from Hungary and do not have the right to move and live freely in Hungary, like EEA nationals or their family members. This also includes stateless persons.
Where do I apply for a White Card?
Apply at a Hungarian embassy or consulate in your home country or where you live. Visa-free nationals can apply online through Enter Hungary or in person at the NDGAP office in Hungary.
How long does it take to process the White Card application?
It usually takes 21 days to process the White Card application, but it can take longer if more documents are needed. The final decision is usually made within 30 days from when you submit your application.
How long is the validity period of the White Card residence permit?
The White Card residence permit is valid for up to 1 year. It can be extended once for an additional year, for a maximum total of 2 years.
Can the White Card residence permit be extended more than once?
No, the White Card residence permit can only be extended once for the same purpose. The maximum total stay is 2 years.
How do I extend my White Card?
You can extend your White Card once, using the Enter Hungary platform. You must have a valid permit when you apply and have lived in Hungary for at least 90 days in any 180-day period before applying. Apply no earlier than 90 days and no later than 30 days before your current permit expires.
What could cause the withdrawal of my White Card residence permit?
The NDGAP will withdraw your White Card residence permit if you work for or on behalf of an employer in Hungary or if you acquire a share in a Hungarian company.
Can I apply for a different type of residence permit while holding a White Card?
No, during the validity of the White Card and even after it expires, you cannot apply for a different type of residence permit for another purpose. This is a critical restriction of the White Card.
Can my family members join me in Hungary if I hold a White Card?
Family members of a White Card holder or applicant cannot be granted a residence permit for family reunification. The only exception is if a White Card holder gives birth to a child in Hungary during the permit’s validity.
Can I obtain a long-term residence card with a White Card?
No, third-country nationals holding a White Card cannot be granted a national long-term residence card.
Can the Hungary Digital Nomad Visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
No, the Hungary digital nomad visa does not directly lead to permanent residency or citizenship. It’s primarily designed for temporary remote work and doesn’t establish the continuous residency required for these longer-term statuses.
What can I do if my residence permit application is refused?
If your residence permit application is refused, you can appeal the decision within 8 days of notification. The appeal should be submitted to the authority of first instance or at the Hungarian diplomatic or consular mission where the application was submitted.
Under what conditions can an appeal be dismissed without examination?
An appeal can be dismissed without examination if it is received after the deadline, not submitted by an authorized person, introduces new facts that were known before the decision was taken, or is submitted without indicating its grounds or cause.
Are there any avoidable issues that would slow down my application?
Yes, one common issue that could delay your application is the need to supply the Immigration Office with additional documents after the application process has already begun. Ensuring all necessary documents are provided promptly and that they are properly authenticated and translated can expedite the decision-making process.
It’s been months since I applied for the White Card but I haven’t received any response. What can I do?
You can submit an Urgency Request Letter with an explanation and documentation verifying an important reason for the expedited decision. You can also visit the Immigration Office, send emails, or authorize someone to track the case on your behalf. If you used the Enter Hungary system, check for updates such as letters requesting more documents or your case being moved to the Closed Cases section.
What documents need to be provided as proof of financial stability?
Provide bank statements for the last 6 months showing continuous and stable financial conditions. You can include multiple bank accounts or services like Revolut and Wise. Documents verifying high-value assets such as bonds or stocks can also be submitted. Cryptocurrency is a grey area but has been accepted in some cases when paired with traditional savings.
Are there any non-mandatory documents that could strengthen my application?
Non-mandatory documents that can strengthen the application include proof of cohabitation if you have a local partner, documents verifying Hungarian language skills, or evidence of investments in Hungary.
How can I get health insurance if I work as a digital nomad?
To obtain health insurance as a digital nomad, you can explore private insurance options. One popular option is the TESTŐR insurance package from Generali Zrt, which includes hospital stay and accident insurance for approximately 46,000 Ft per year. More extensive private options are also available from providers like Medicover and Generali.
Any recommendations on which is the best health insurance?
Medicover and Generali are commonly used providers. The TESTŐR package from Generali is a good option for minimal investment and can be arranged online. We recommend comparing multiple options to find coverage that best suits your needs.
Can digital nomads establish their businesses in Hungary?
Yes, digital nomads can establish a sole trader business or a company in Hungary, which makes them eligible for a different residence permit type. However, if you do this while holding a White Card, your White Card will be withdrawn, and you cannot apply for another residence permit during or after the White Card’s validity.
Can I open a bank account in Hungary if I work as a digital nomad?
Yes, you can open a bank account in Hungary as a digital nomad. However, the process may be easier at some banks than others. Having your residence permit can facilitate the account opening process.
How long should my proof of accommodation last for the White Card application?
It’s recommended to provide proof of accommodation that covers as much of your stay in Hungary as possible, ideally for the entire year. However, providing accommodation proof for the duration of the application process can also be acceptable. The important thing is to demonstrate a commitment to residing in Hungary.
How can you get proof of accommodation for a 1-year stay before you enter the country?
You can secure a long-term rental agreement or lease contract before entering the country. Alternatively, you can provide documentation for a series of short-term rentals that cover the entire year.
Do I need to buy an airplane ticket as proof of departure?
For applications submitted at consulates abroad, a booking is typically required. You need to show either a valid ticket OR sufficient funds to purchase a ticket, not both.
How can I prove that I would not be overstaying?
It is not possible to definitively verify that one will not overstay. The declaration in the application form serves this purpose. You must also show proof of exit, a valid passport AND travel ticket OR sufficient funds.
Is a one-way ticket acceptable?
Yes, a one-way ticket is acceptable for an embassy application, as long as you can demonstrate sufficient funds to purchase a departure ticket if needed.