White Card visa

“White Card” in Hungary (for Digital Nomads)

A special residence permit tailored specifically for the needs of those following a “digital nomad” lifestyle. The holder of the “White Card” can obtain a one-year residence permit in Hungary if they meet the requirements. (The permit can be extended for an additional year upon request). The holder of the “White Card” is allowed to work from Hungary, but cannot be employed by a Hungarian employer.

Who is eligible for the “White Card”?

Those employed by an employer outside Hungary (Non-EU/EEA nationals) and performing their work using advanced digital technology solutions or owning a share in a company outside Hungary with proven profitability and managing their work or business operations from Hungary using advanced digital technology.

Who is NOT eligible for a White Card?

• Those who meet the requirements for a residence permit for guest self-employment, guest investor residence permit, residence permit for employment to carry out an investment, residence permit for employment, guest worker residence permit, National Card, Hungarian Card, or Corporate Card.
• Those who hold a residence permit for study purposes or are participating in an internship.
• Those residing in Hungary on assignment.
• Those who have applied for recognition as a refugee, or for temporary or subsidiary protection.
• Those who have been granted refugee status, or temporary or subsidiary protection.
• Those who have been admitted (under protection status).
• Those whose deportation has been suspended.
• Those holding an EU permanent residence permit or an EU residence card.
• Those entering the European Union under an intra-corporate transfer.
• Those entering the European Union for employment that requires a high level of qualification.

What rights does the “White Card” holder have in Hungary?

• Stay in Hungary for up to 1 year (the stay can be extended upon request). During this period, the holder can leave and re-enter Hungary an unlimited number of times without requiring additional permits.
• Work remotely for a foreign employer from Hungary.
• Manage a foreign business from Hungary.

What the “White Card” holder is NOT allowed to do in Hungary:

• Cannot be employed by a Hungarian employer.
• Cannot hold an executive position in a Hungarian company.
• Cannot operate as a sole proprietor.

Requirements for the “White Card” application:

• Proof of purpose for staying in Hungary: Either proof of employment with a foreign employer or proof of ownership/partnership in a profitable foreign business. Foreign-language documents proving the purpose of the stay must be accompanied by a certified Hungarian translation.
• Proof of financial means for living in Hungary: Applicants must have an income of at least €3,000 per month in the six months preceding their entry to Hungary. This can be evidenced through income statements, tax authority certificates, or bank statements.
• Proof of accommodation in Hungary, for example, a rental contract, hosting declaration, certified invitation letter, or paid accommodation booking.
• Health insurance covering healthcare services in Hungary, with a monthly premium of at least €15.
• Valid passport for the entire duration of stay in Hungary plus an additional 90 days.
• Proof of means for return travel, either by showing a valid travel ticket or sufficient funds for its purchase.

Important:
The “White Card” will be revoked if the holder leaves Hungary for more than 90 consecutive days, takes up employment with a Hungarian employer, or acquires a share in a Hungarian company.

Necessary Documents

• Valid Passport (copy)
• Recent ID Photo (no older than three months)
• Bank Account Statements (last six months)
• Proof of Current Bank Account Balance
• Proof of Income (showing at least EUR 3,000 per month for the last six months)
• Proof of Health Insurance
• Proof of Accommodation in Hungary
• Proof of Employment or Business Ownership
• Proof of Exit (valid passport and travel ticket or funds)
• Facial Photograph

Expected Costs:

• €110 application fee
• Costs for certified translations of documents (varies)
• CFH service fee €500 + VAT (Total €635 gross)

What does the CFH service package include?

• Comprehensive information
• Completion of required documents based on the provided data
• Liaison with public offices
• Coordination of necessary language translations
• Representation as an authorized agent, if requested
• Collection of the completed visa
• and any other necessary services.