In response to the growing trend of remote work, Hungary introduced a unique residence permit known as the White Card—officially titled the Digital Nomad Residence Permit (Fehér Kártya in Hungarian). Tailored specifically for non-EU/EEA citizens working remotely for foreign companies, the White Card provides an attractive legal framework for digital nomads who wish to live in Hungary while continuing their professional activities abroad.
What Is the Hungarian White Card?
The White Card allows digital nomads to reside in Hungary while maintaining full-time remote employment or freelance work with non-Hungarian clients or companies. This permit is ideal for professionals who have no ties to the local labor market but want to benefit from Hungary’s central location, rich culture, and affordable lifestyle.
Benefits of the White Card include:
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The ability to open a Hungarian bank account;
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Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
However, there are notable limitations:
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Employment Restrictions: Cardholders are not permitted to work for Hungarian companies or engage in any business activity that generates income within Hungary.
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Healthcare Access: The White Card does not grant access to Hungary’s free public healthcare system, as holders do not contribute to national social security.
Duration and Renewal
The White Card is valid for one year and can be renewed once for an additional year. After the two-year period, the permit expires, and the cardholder must leave Hungary. If they wish to return under the same program, they must start the application process from the beginning, including gathering all required documents again.
It’s important to note that the time spent under a White Card does not count toward eligibility for permanent residency in Hungary. Even if the individual switches to another type of residence permit afterward, the two years on the White Card are not considered in the calculation for long-term residency.
Eligibility Requirements for the Hungarian White Card
To apply for the White Card, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
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Nationality and Age: Be at least 18 years old and a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country.
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Remote Employment: Provide documentation such as an employment contract, proof of freelance work, or ownership of a company that operates outside Hungary.
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Income Proof: Demonstrate a stable income of at least €3,000 per month, supported by bank statements for the past six months.
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Housing: Secure accommodation in Hungary—either through a purchase or a long-term rental agreement covering at least 12 months.
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Clean Criminal Record: Have no criminal convictions and pose no threat to Hungary’s public order or national interests.
A Practical Option for Digital Nomads in Europe
With its central location, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant culture, Hungary offers an ideal base for digital nomads seeking to explore Europe while maintaining a professional lifestyle. The Hungarian White Card presents a straightforward and well-defined path for remote workers to enjoy a temporary stay in the country—without the need to engage with the local labor market.
While it does not offer a route to permanent residency, the White Card remains a valuable option for those who want to balance work and travel in the heart of Europe.