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Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Hungary Visa

Next stop? Hungary!

Whether you’re planning to explore the stunning capital of Budapest or relax along Lake Balaton, understanding the Hungary visa process is a crucial part of your travel preparations.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about visas for Hungary, from the application process to special visa types, and more.

Do I need a visa to go to Hungary?

Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, which means that the type of visa you need depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. While some travelers can enjoy short stays without a visa, others may need to apply ahead of time.

Citizens of non-exempt countries (such as China or India) need to obtain a visa to travel to Hungary.

Do US citizens need a visa for Hungary?

If you’re a US citizen, great news! For visits up to 90 days for tourism or business within a 180-day period, you do not need a visa for Hungary. Your US passport will allow you to travel freely, as Hungary is part of the Schengen Zone.

However, from 2026 on, US citizens will need to apply for ETIAS authorization for short stays. This application is simple and entirely online. US citizens with valid Hungary visas will not need to apply for ETIAS (it’s a one-or-the-other situation).

Who doesn’t need a visa to go to Hungary?

In addition to US citizens, travelers from other visa-exempt countries, such as Canada, Australia, and others can visit Hungary without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days). Those traveling for tourism, business, or family visits fall under this exemption.

Additionally, citizens of countries in the Schengen zone or the EU also do not need a visa to visit Hungary.

How do I apply for a Hungary visa?

If you’re not from a visa-exempt country or plan to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a visa. Hungary offers several visa types depending on the purpose of your visit, including tourism, work, study, and digital nomad visas.

Can I apply for a Hungary visa online?

No, Hungary does not offer an online application process. You’ll need to submit your visa application in person at a Hungarian consulate or visa processing center in your country.

However, some visa forms can be completed electronically before submitting in person, which helps speed up the process.

In the coming years, those traveling to Hungary will be able to apply for a Hungary visa online through a system called EU VAP. It hasn’t launched just as of yet, but it will streamline the process and make it more accessible for applicants of all backgrounds in the future.

Is a Hungarian visa difficult to get?

Generally, Hungary’s visa process is straightforward. The ease of obtaining a visa can depend on the visa type, seasonality, the completeness of your application, and more.

What is the rejection rate for Hungary visas?

In 2023, the global rejection rate for Hungarian visas was 15.13%. Applications can be denied for many reasons, but a common one is incomplete documentation and lack of sufficient funds.

What is the processing time for a Hungary visa?

The typical processing time for a Hungary visa is around 10-15 calendar days, but this can extend up to 60 days or more, especially during busy seasons or if additional documents are needed. Be sure to allow plenty of time before your planned travel.

a visa application is ready to be filled out; it’s sitting on a desk with a pen.

Hungary visa application requirements

Whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, or something else, meeting Hungary’s visa requirements is essential for a smooth application process – and that means understanding which documents you need to prepare.

For all Hungary visa applications, there are some essential required documents you can expect to need to provide. Then, specific visas will require additional documents on top of the essential ones.

Which essential documents are required when applying for a Hungarian visa?

A completed visa application form
Passport-sized photos (meeting Schengen standards)
Valid passport (with at least 3 months of validity beyond your intended stay)
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter, etc.)
Schengen-compliant travel insurance
Flight itinerary
Proof of financial means (bank statements, employment letter, etc.)

A smiling couple is enjoying a trip abroad to Hungary.

Hungary visas and ETIAS

If you’re traveling without a Hungarian/Schengen visa, you need ETIAS authorization from 2026 on. However, if you hold a valid Hungarian/Schengen visa, you do not need to apply for ETIAS (it’s an either/or situation).

Who needs ETIAS to visit Hungary?

Visa-exempt travelers, including US citizens, will need to apply for ETIAS for short stays in Hungary and the Schengen zone as of 2026. This process is straightforward and entirely online.

Learn more about Hungary and ETIAS requirements in our Hungarian ETIAS Guide.

Is Hungary part of the Schengen Zone?

Yes! Hungary is one of the 29 countries in the Schengen Zone, meaning you typically can travel to other Schengen countries without border checks once you enter Hungary.