Starting July 1, Hungary will reintroduce its Golden Visa Program, now called the Guest Investor Program (GIP), allowing wealthy non-EU/EEA nationals to obtain residency. The program, previously ended in March 2017, was approved by the Hungarian Government in late 2023.
The GIP offers three investment options:
- Investing €250,000 in a real estate fund
- Buying a €500,000 residential property
- Donating €1,000,000 to a Hungarian higher education institution
Unlike some other countries that have discontinued real estate options due to housing crises, Hungary maintains this route. Applicants must be over 18, have a clean criminal record, and demonstrate a legitimate income source.
GIP beneficiaries gain visa-free access to EU countries. The residency permits extend to the investor’s spouse, minor children, and parents.
The application process involves working with an agent, choosing an investment option, obtaining a Golden Visa for entry, meeting investment requirements in Hungary, applying for residency, and submitting biometrics. Approved residence permit cards are delivered by mail or in person.
The previous Golden Visa Program, running from 2013 to 2017, generated €1.4 billion for Hungary and issued 4,794 residence permits. It was terminated in 2017, allegedly due to lack of economic benefits. The Hungarian government introduced the framework for the new program in November 2023.
