New Requirement for Hungary in 2026: ETIAS

Hungary, tucked into central Europe, sees millions of visitors each and every year. From the jaw-dropping architectural landmarks in Budapest to the mineral spas and thermal Lake Hévíz, Hungary is a popular travel destination for travelers worldwide.

When planning a trip to Hungary, it’s important to know the travel requirements so your trip can be smooth and stress-free.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Budapest, Debrecen, or wherever it is you’re off in Hungary!

Do I need ETIAS to visit Hungary?

Yes. From 2026 on, all visitors who do not hold a Schengen visa/passport will need ETIAS approval in order to travel to Hungary.

The Schengen area (which includes Hungary) has visa-waiver agreements with a handful of countries including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and more.

That means that citizens of these countries do not need to obtain a visa to travel to Hungary, or anywhere in the Schengen area for that matter.

ETIAS isn’t a visa replacement. Instead, it is permission to enter the Schengen area for those who do not require visas. That means, if you’re planning a trip to Hungary that exceeds 90 days, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa (instead of ETIAS).

If you are a citizen of a country that does not have a visa-waiver agreement with the Schengen area (such as India, China, or Russia), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. In this case, you will want to check out our Hungary visa guide instead.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Hungarian visa?

No. If you hold a valid Hungary visa (or Schengen visa), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. With a Hungarian visa, you are already approved and authorized to travel in the Schengen area.

How to apply for ETIAS for Hungary

Applying for ETIAS for Hungary is quick, easy, and entirely online. You can get ETIAS approval in just a few steps, as follows (psst… make sure you have your passport, travel info, and debit/credit card ready!)

Step one: fill out the form on ETIAS

You’ll need to fill out a form that provides key information like your name, birth date, travel details, and passport number.

Step two: answer a few questions

You’ll be asked a few questions about your background, such as your level of education and current occupation.

Step three: pay the ETIAS application fee

There is an application fee when applying for ETIAS approval. This fee is paid online via debit or credit card. You can expect to pay 20 euros (this fee is waived for those under the age of 18 and over the age of 70).

Step four: wait for approval

In most cases, you’ll receive your approved ETIAS in just a couple of minutes. However, while unlikely, approval can take up to 30 days. Make sure to plan accordingly and apply for ETIAS ahead of your trip to prevent any travel delays.

Step five: travel to Hungary!

Your ETIAS authorization will be automatically linked to your passport, meaning authorities at the borders will be able to see that you have been permitted to enter the Schengen area. However, it never hurts to have a digital copy or print out your approval, just in case.

Step six: renew your ETIAS as needed

Your ETIAS is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Once it expires, you will need to apply for a new ETIAS by following the steps above.

Traveling outside of Hungary

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus.

With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

FAQs