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Expat Exchange > Hungary

Hungary

Cost of Living: Low

Train Access: Yes (máv-start, very safe)

Bus Service: Yes (Volánbusz, relatively safe)

Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe, situated in the Carpathian Basin with the Danube River flowing through its heart. The nation has a rich cultural heritage spanning centuries, with Budapest serving as its vibrant capital and largest city. Hungary's economy is moderately developed, with strong sectors in manufacturing, agriculture, and increasingly in technology and services. The country is known for its thermal springs, architectural beauty, and contributions to arts and sciences. Hungarian culture emphasizes hospitality, fine cuisine, and a deep appreciation for music and literature. Life in Hungary offers a blend of modern European amenities with affordable living costs compared to Western Europe.

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Living Abroad: Digital Nomads in Budapest, Hungary

4 Off-the-Beaten Track European Retirement Destinations

10 Tips for Living in Hungary

10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Hungary

Culture Shock in Hungary

Pros and Cons of Living in Hungary

Getting a Driver's License in Hungary

Guide to Residency in Hungary

Retiring in Hungary: 7 Best Places to Retire in Hungary

Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Hungary (Plus, Itineraries)

10 Best Places for Families to Live in Hungary

15 Best Places to Live in Hungary

9 Important Tips about Healthcare for Expats in Hungary

Top Hospitals in Hungary by Specialty

Prescription Medications and Pharmacies in Hungary

Understanding Mental Health in Hungary

Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Hungary?

Having a Baby in Hungary

Health Insurance in Hungary

How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Hungary

Understanding the Health System in Hungary

8 Things Expats Wish They Had Known Before Moving to Hungary

International Schools in Budapest, Hungary

Moving to Hungary with a Pet

Homeschooling in Hungary

How to Enroll Your Children in School in Hungary

Educational System in Hungary

10 Things to Know Before Moving to Hungary

How to Buy a Home in Hungary

How to Rent a Home in Hungary

Guide to Residency in Hungary

Podcasts

Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

Living in Hungary

Movies Set: The Grand Budapest Hotel, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Red Sparrow

Popular Foods: Traditional Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and hearty dishes. Goulash, a spicy meat stew with vegetables and paprika, is one of the most famous Hungarian dishes. Another popular dish is chicken paprikash, chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with dumplings. For dessert, Hungarians enjoy pastries like strudel and the sweet cheese-filled pancake known as palacsinta.

Unusual Eats: Töltött káposzta, or stuffed cabbage, might be strange to some visitors as it combines pickled cabbage leaves with a filling of minced pork meat and rice, often seasoned with paprika and cooked in a tomato-based sauce. Another unusual dish is pacal, which is a stew made from cow's stomach (tripe) and is considered a delicacy by some Hungarians.

Popular Sports: football, water polo, handball, basketball

Popular Teams: Ferencvárosi TC (football), Szeged Handball Team, Alba Fehérvár (basketball)

Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid: When greeting someone in Hungary, it is customary to shake hands, and not doing so can be seen as rude. It's also important to avoid talking loudly in public places, as this can be considered impolite. When invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a gift, such as flowers, wine, or chocolates, but avoid giving an even number of flowers as it is associated with funerals.

Best Places to Live in Hungary

Discover the top-ranked towns in Hungary. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Visa & Residency

Difficulty Obtaining: average

Popular Expat Visa/s: National "D" Visa for Residence Permit

Popular Nomad Visa/s: Hungary does not have a specific digital nomad visa, but digital nomads may use the National "D" Visa for Residence Permit which allows them to live in Hungary for the duration of the residence permit, typically one year, and can be renewed.

Obtaining a residency in Hungary involves several steps and the process can be considered average in terms of difficulty. Expats looking to reside in Hungary typically apply for the National "D" Visa, which is a long-term visa that allows entry into Hungary for the purpose of obtaining a residence permit. The first step is to determine the appropriate type of residence permit based on the purpose of stay, such as employment, family reunification, study, or business activities. Applicants must submit their visa application at a Hungarian consulate or embassy in their home country. The required documents usually include a valid passport, proof of accommodation in Hungary, a round-trip flight reservation, proof of sufficient financial means to support oneself, and a comprehensive health insurance policy. For certain types of permits, additional documents such as a letter of invitation from a Hungarian employer or an acceptance letter from an educational institution may be required. Once the National "D" Visa is granted, it allows the holder to enter Hungary and stay while they apply for the actual residence permit. The application for the residence permit must be submitted within 30 days of arrival in Hungary at the regional directorate of the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. The processing time for the residence permit can vary, but it generally takes about 1-2 months. If approved, the residence permit is typically issued for one year and can be renewed. It is important to note that the process may require an in-person interview and additional documentation, depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. Overall, while the process involves several bureaucratic steps, it is relatively straightforward for those who prepare adequately and meet all the requirements. Expats are advised to start the application process well in advance of their intended move date to allow sufficient time for processing and potential complications.

Healthcare in Hungary

Hungary's healthcare system is a universal model funded by the National health insurance Fund (Országos Egészségbiztosítási Pénztár, OEP). All Hungarian citizens and residents, including expatriates who are registered and contribute to the social security system, have access to healthcare services. The system provides a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. Public healthcare facilities are widespread, but they may suffer from underfunding and long waiting times. Private healthcare is also available and offers faster and more comfortable services, albeit at a higher cost. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they have a residence permit and are registered with the OEP. They must also contribute to the social security system to be eligible for full healthcare services. Private insurance is often recommended for those seeking immediate and high-standard care.

"I understand the monetary aspects, however, health care! I am on Social Security Disability and need to take certain medications. Any advice or experiences would be appreciated. I have relatives there that would "stand-up" for me. I also want to and understand that I would NEED to learn the language. I have visited twice; I only know a few phrases." - robincleve

Connect with Others on the Hungary Community

Cost of Living

Hungary offers relatively affordable living costs compared to Western European countries. Rental prices in Budapest range from €400-800 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas, while outside the capital they are significantly lower. Property purchase prices average €3,000-5,000 per square meter in Budapest, considerably cheaper than major Western European cities. Daily expenses including food, utilities, and transportation are moderate and budget-friendly for most expatriates.

Weather

Hungary experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold and can be snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December to February. Summers are warm and pleasant, typically ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F) between June and August. Spring and autumn are mild transitional seasons with moderate rainfall throughout the year.

Educational System in Hungary

The educational system in Hungary is comprehensive and follows the Bologna Process, which standardizes education across Europe. Education is mandatory from the age of 6 to 16. The system is divided into four main stages: kindergarten (ages 3-6), primary school (grades 1-8), secondary school (grades 9-12), and higher education. Primary education typically starts at age 6 and lasts for 8 years, where students receive a broad education. Secondary education is either general or vocational, with general high schools preparing students for higher education and vocational schools focusing on practical skills for various trades. After completing grade 12, students take a matriculation exam (Matura), which is necessary for university entrance. The Hungarian education system is known for its strong emphasis on the sciences and mathematics, and it has produced several notable Nobel laureates and innovators throughout history. Schools in Hungary also offer language education, with English and German being the most popular choices. For families moving to Hungary, there are also international schools that offer education in English and follow international curricula.