Living in Hungary: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Hungary.
If you are planning to move to a European Union country, why not turn to Hungary? Located in Central Europe, Hungary has greatly modernized over the years. Nowadays, its provides quality living to its inhabitants and expatriates.
Whether you are looking forward to work or study in Hungary, you will benefit from several opportunities thanks to the presence of foreign companies involved in different fields.
History
Hungary has had a long and complicated history. It has been part of the Roman Empire, conquered by the Huns, become part of the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires subsequently, and was occupied by Germany and the Soviet Union. It was at the crux of the first World War when the heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand, was murdered. As for the second World War, Hungary was initially with the Axis powers, but negotiated peace with the Allies, and was subsequently occupied by the Nazis.
But Hungary is not all about war. This is also the country which, when all other European nations were busy crusading the Holy Lands, introduced the first constitution in continental Europe; the Golden Bull, issued by Andrew II in 1222. During the rule of Corvinus (1458'1490) Hungary was the only non-Italian nation to embrace the values of Renaissance and Humanism. This complicated and sometimes tumultuous past is celebrated and commemorated in different ways throughout the country, from museums documenting life under Nazi and Soviet rule to castles and palaces celebrating Hungary's roots.
After a Soviet military occupation that lasted from 1945-1989 in some form or other, Hungary was pronounced a republic in 1989, with Hungarian as its official language and Budapest as its capital city. Budapest is home to a third of the country's population. With Buda to the west and Pest to the east, the city is divided by the Danube river, which flows through the middle. The city's economy is developing at a fast rate and is home to many large multinationals, with notable big names in the finance and biotech sectors, which is good news for expats looking for a job in Budapest.
Geography
Hungary is divided into three regions by its two main rivers; Danube and Tisza. The region 'beyond the Danube' is mountainous, containing the easternmost part of the Alps whereas the northern part of the country is at the foothills of the Carpathians. Hungary is also home to the world's largest thermal water cave system and the second largest thermal lake which, because of the combined influence of the Roman and Ottoman rule, played a big part in the strong 'bath' culture of the country, with spas and Turkish baths at (almost) every turn.
The country also has large rural spaces, with forest covered hills that are perfect for nature-lovers, whereas its mild, continental climate makes it ideal to visit in the spring and summer.
Economy
Hungary became one of many countries to join the EU in 2004, but it has still kept its own currency, the Hungarian Forint. The forint is quite a weak currency, with 1,000 HUF equating to about 3 euros. As is the case with most former members of what was known as the Soviet block, there is a struggle to transition from a centrally planned economy to a market driven one, but despite that fact, the Hungarian economy has been making great strides recently. There are improvements in investment freedom and labour freedom, as well as in judicial effectiveness. There is also a political stability, as the same government was just re-elected for a third term. All and all, Hungary seems to be on its way up once again, thus attracting both businesses and expats.
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to Hungary.
Travel to Hungary
The countrys location in the eastern part of central Europe makes Hungary very easy to access from all directions. Hungary is sharing borders with ...
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Hungary.
Work
Dive into the Hungary labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Hungary.
Finding work in Hungary
Finding a job in Hungary as an expat can be a bit challenging, especially if youre not an EU/EFTA ...
Setting up a business in Hungary
Because of its central location in the continent and the good connections with the neighbouring ...
Jobs in Hungary
Discover professional opportunities in Hungary and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Hungary. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Hungary.
Key facts for international students in Hungary
Hungary has been called The Crossroads of Europe and it is definitely a central and cosmopolitan destination, both culturally and geographically. ...
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Hungary: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Hungary: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Hungary.
The taxation system in Hungary
If youre living in Hungary, you are subject to paying taxes in the country for all the income you may have earned during the tax year, both in ...
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Hungary.
Travelling around Hungary
Hungary has an extensive domestic transportation network that covers the whole country. No matter where you are, you can easily find access to buses, ...
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Hungary, driver's license exchange and international permits.
Driving in Hungary
Hungary has an extensive road network, big parts of which have been recently updated to facilitate traffic. The legal driving age is 17 years old, ...
Removal
Moving to Hungary? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Customs in Hungary
As a member of the EU/EFTA, Hungary supports the free movement of goods within the EU/EFTA area. ...
Moving with your pets to Hungary
If you are a pet owner, then perhaps one of the most stressful parts of expatriation is figuring ...
Free quotes for your move
Get the best offers to easily organize your relocation to Hungary.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Hungary.
Phones, internet, and mail in Hungary
Staying connected to your loved ones back home is very important to an expat. Thankfully, connectivity in Hungary will definitely be no issue: ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Hungary.
Leisure activities in Hungary
Hungary may be a small country, but its abundance of culture, history and natural offerings is bound to impress you. There are no less than 8 UNESCO ...
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Hungary looks like? Here's a taste.
Childcare in Hungary
As Hungary is an EU member, it adheres to the EU premise that all citizens should be entitled to equal childcare and benefits, regardless of their ...
Articles from the magazine
Kevin in Hegymagas: "The lifestyle in Hungary is more temporally relaxed"
Kevin comes from the US. He moved to Hungary with his Swiss-Hungarian wife in 2007. Fond of vineyards, he has settled in the village of Hegymagas, near Lake Balaton. Kevin enjoys, above all, looking after their vineyard.
Unpacking my bottom drawer in Budapest
Born in Dublin, Ireland, when Tayto crisps were the only crisps worth eating, I've been flitting around the Northern Hemisphere for what seems like a lifetime.
The best places to live in Budapest
Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Central-Eastern Europe and one regional student hub, with thousands of foreign students living in the city. If you intend to move to Hungary, here are some data on the real estate market and the Budapest main districts.
The Hungarian adventures of The Anderson Five
Matthew was pleased to discover (upon moving from the US to Hungary) that Budapest is incredibly child-friendly, as he and his wife moved from Bellingham, Washington to Budapest, Hungary with their three young boys. Here he tells https://www.expat.com about life in Hungary so far, and his favourite things about the country.
Author Melanie Cheng discusses the impact of a bicultural upbringing on identity
Join us as we explore the journey of Melanie Cheng, a writer profoundly influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong and Australia. Her unique bicultural background has deeply shaped her perspective and voice as a storyteller. Today, Melanie shares insights into how navigating two distinct cultures has enriched her writing, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of language and tradition in her work.
How different countries approach midday breaks
Lunch breaks are more than just lunch. They can also be a cultural phenomenon, especially when you consider how different a lunch experience in a different country can be. Today, we are looking into what lunch breaks are like across the world and which countries take them most seriously.
Understanding inheritance law and taxes
The cross-border inheritance of assets presents a complex legal and financial terrain for expats with families in other countries. No two nations share identical inheritance laws, and the specifics of bilateral tax treaties vary as well. So, how can you navigate this minefield without losing access to your inherited assets, complicating the donation of your assets to your children, or facing excessive taxes? Here are some tips.
Expat women: Why setting boundaries is important
Launched in October 2017, the #Metoo movement has empowered women to speak out. Globally, women from all walks of life, both well-known and private, have come forward to expose violence against women. Central to these discussions is the concept of consent, which at first glance appears straightforward—voluntarily agreeing to engage in an activity. Yet, its application, particularly regarding women, often faces scrutiny. Common misunderstandings persist, such as interpreting a "no" as a "yes," or considering a coerced "yes" as consent. This raises a critical question: How do you, as a woman, establish personal boundaries while living abroad?
