Did you know that last year, there were approximately 45 million digital nomads globally? This number is projected to increase by 60 million by 2030? (WYSE Travel Confederation: Digital Nomads) In the past few years, digital nomad visas have proven to be a game-changer for professionals seeking flexibility in their work and living environments.
Various European countries offer such visas, but Hungary tops the list and has become a popular choice for digital nomads. This is due to the numerous benefits this place offers, be it the low cost of living, rich cultural heritage, or the growing infrastructure.
Curious to know more about this topic? You are at the right place. In this post, we will discuss everything you need to know about the Digital Nomad Visa in Hungary. And
Additionally, understand the income requirements, tax policies, and how Hungary compares to other European nations offering similar programs, as explained by Ferenc Tihánszky, the director of the Hungarian office.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Digital nomad visas offer work and living flexibility to remote workers.
Hungary’s white card is one of the most popular choices among professionals.
To obtain a digital nomad visa in Hungary, you must meet the minimum income requirement.
An option of the Golden Visa in Hungary is also available for those who wish for additional European Union residency benefits.
In comparison to various other countries, a nomadic visa in Hungary is often considered a better option.
What is Hungary White Card
Hungary’s White Card is the official digital nomad visa program of the county. It was launched to attract remote workers from all around the world. It permits non-EU citizens to live and work in the country and at the same time enjoy the benefits of the modern amenities and business-friendly environment of the place.
The White Card gives the holders the right to stay in Hungary for up to 12 months, with the possibility of further extensions. Unlike other long-term visas, the White Card is tailored to digital nomads, giving them the freedom to work remotely while living in a country with a relatively low cost of living compared to other European destinations.
There is a certain criterion to apply for the White Card, applicants must provide proof of employment or self-employment, and demonstrate that their income is sufficient to support themselves without needing any local job market. The card is the perfect choice for professionals seeking to experience life in Hungary but who wish for a remote work lifestyle.
DO YOU KNOW? There are over 40 million digital nomads in the world, 18.1% of whom are from the United States.
Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Income Requirements
Applicants must meet certain requirements to obtain a digital nomad visa in Hungary, the most important one being:
Meeting Hungary’s income threshold: Digital nomads must prove that they earn enough to manage all their living expenses while residing in Hungary. As of 2025, around €3,000 has been set as the minimum monthly income requirement, though it may vary based on the applicant’s particular situation and family size.
It helps the government ensure the sustainability of the program, as applicants must confirm that they will not be a burden on Hungary’s social services. Another thing that should be added here is that this is a gross income requirement, which means that applicants must show pre-tax earnings.
This income may come from a range of sources, such as freelance work, remote employment, or a business that operates outside of Hungary.
Hungary Digital Nomad Visa Tax
Hungary’s tax policies are another factor that makes this country an attractive option for digital nomads. Under the White Card, only those residents who stay for more than 183 days within a year in Hungary are considered tax residents.
However, digital nomads only need to pay a relatively low flat tax rate of 15% on personal income, the lowest in Europe.
In addition to that, this country has a network of tax treaties with other countries, meaning that it can save digital nomads from paying double taxes if they are already filing taxes in their home country.
How to Apply for Hungary Golden Visa
The White Card benefits specifically the digital nomads, but Hungary also offers a Golden Visa program. It allows individuals to obtain residence in the country by making substantial investments. Here is all that is needed:
An investment in government bonds or business development in Hungary is required to obtain the golden visa.
Golden Visa applicants must invest a minimum of €250,000 in fund units or provide proof of a similar investment that can stimulate the economy.
It is quite simple to obtain the Golden Visa: applicants must submit the required documents, complete a due diligence process, and finally, make the investment.
Once approved, a temporary residence, with the option to apply for permanent residence after eight years, is granted.
The Golden Visa is an attractive option for digital nomads who plan to invest in Hungary and wish for the additional benefit of European Union residency. It promises access to Hungary and other EU countries, in addition to the benefits of long-term residence.
FUN FACT 79% of digital nomads are early tech adopters, and 76% use it to stay competitive at work.
Digital Nomad Visa Comparison in Europe
Even though there are many Digital Nomad Visa countries in Europe that offer the same services, Hungary’s program still stands out. Here’s a look at some of the top choices in Europe to compare with Hungary:
Malta: The Digital Nomad Visa in Malta allows remote workers to stay for up to twelve months with a minimum income requirement of €3,500 per month, higher than Hungary’s. Additionally, Malta has a higher cost of living, making it less appealing for those seeking affordable options.
Portugal: Due to its low cost of living and beautiful surroundings, Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa is extremely popular. The income requirement here is somewhere around €3,480 per month. However, a drawback is that the application process can be more time-consuming than that of Hungary’s more streamlined process.
Spain: Spain launched its own digital nomad visa recently. It requires applicants to have a minimum income of €2,762 per month. This place offers an attractive lifestyle and numerous amenities, but at the same time, it is important to note that it has a higher cost of living, especially in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
Italy: Coming to a relatively new option, Italy’s digital nomad visa’s income requirement is at least €2,700 per month. It provides access to the famous lifestyle and cultural heritage of the country, but comes with a higher cost of living in major cities like Rome and Milan. In comparison to Hungary’s simpler system, the application process in Italy is much more complicated.
Conclusion
Hungary’s White Card is considered an excellent option for digital nomads who want to balance affordability, ease of application, and a supportive environment all at once for remote work.
Hungary offers a compelling case for those considering life in Europe as it offers low income requirements, favorable tax policies, and a growing infrastructure for remote workers.
If we compare it with other European countries offering similar visas, Hungary provides an efficient application process, lower living costs, and a central location within the continent. Due to this, it is an appealing choice for professionals looking to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a digital nomad visa?
A digital nomad visa is a visa that allows remote workers to live and work in a foreign country for an extended period of time.
What is a white card residency permit?
A white card residency permit is the digital nomad visa offered in Hungary. It is designed especially for non-European Union and European economic area.
What is the minimum salary for a digital nomad visa in Hungary?
For a digital nomad visa in Hungary, you need proof of your business or job outside the country with a minimum income of EUR 3,000 per month.
How long does it take to get a digital nomad visa in Hungary?
The processing time for a digital nomad visa in Hungary is around 30 days.
