🇭🇺Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If you’re planning a move to Hungary, this guide will give you all the practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in Hungary at a glance?
- Flag: 🇭🇺
- Population: 9.6 million
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average salary: Around 18800€/year
- Live EUR ←→ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates
Reviewed by the worldometer, last updated in July 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; Wearedevelopers, last updated in May 2024.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Your Belongings to Hungary?
The cost of relocating depends on shipment size, method, origin, and additional fees. Below are typical market rates as of mid-2025:
| Shipment Method | Transit Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20-ft container | ~2–6 weeks | €1,050–3,000 |
| 40-ft container | ~2–6 weeks | €1,950–4,400 |
| Air freight (per m³) | Few days | Typically much higher |
| Customs / VAT fees | — | ~€200–500 (if applicable) |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to Hungary in April 2025 with around 28 cubic meters of belongings using a 40-ft container. The total cost, including customs and delivery, was about €3,900. Everything arrived safely in just under four weeks.” — Anna K., moved in April 2025
Many people relocating to Hungary choose to settle in one of the five most popular cities for newcomers, including Budapest, Debrecen, Szeged, Miskolc, and Pécs. These cities offer diverse career opportunities, rich cultural experiences, excellent public transportation, and vibrant international communities.
How to understand the cost of living in Hungary?
As of mid-2025, Hungary offers a comfortable cost of living, particularly when compared to many Western European countries. According to Numbeo, a single person’s general monthly expenses, excluding rent, average around €678.60, covering groceries, basic goods, and utilities. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center such as Budapest typically costs about €758 per month, though prices are lower in smaller cities like Debrecen or Szeged. Utilities—including electricity, heating, water, garbage, and internet—generally range from €110 to €116 monthly. A public transportation pass costs approximately €40 per month, providing convenient access to urban and regional networks.
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| General living expenses (groceries, basic goods, utilities) | €678.60 |
| Rent – 1-bedroom apartment (city center, e.g., Budapest) | €758 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage, internet) | €110–116 |
| Public transportation pass | €40 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025
How to Apply for a Visa and Meet Residency Requirements for Hungary?
A visa is required for most non-EU/EEA nationals who wish to live, work, or study in Hungary. The most common visa for long-term stays is the National D-Visa, which covers purposes such as employment, study, family reunification, research, and self-employment. Each visa type has specific eligibility requirements, including valid accommodation, proof of financial means, health insurance, and a clear purpose for stays longer than 90 days. For tourism or business visits under 90 days, travelers typically apply for a short-stay Schengen Type C visa.
Visa types and eligibility check: Hungarian National Visa & Residence Permits
Online application & consular booking: Hungarian Consulate e-appointment system
Reviewed by the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration and Asylum Office, last updated in July 2025
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in Hungary?
Hungary’s National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK) provides universal public healthcare, covering doctor visits, hospital care, maternity services, and prescription medicines at little or no cost for legal residents. Expatriates and residents can register at their local District Office (Kormányablak) to obtain a TAJ number, which is required to access public healthcare services.
Many residents also choose private health insurance for faster access, specialist care, or private clinics. Healthcare is funded through taxes and social security contributions, typically deducted from payroll. Registration requires proof of residence, a social security number, and valid identification.
Reviewed by the Hungarian Ministry of Human Capacities (EMMI) and Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), last updated July 2025
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Hungary?
Renting in Hungary generally requires tenants to pay a security deposit equivalent to one to three months’ rent, along with proof of income, valid identification, and sometimes a Hungarian guarantor. Rental contracts, known as “bérleti szerződés”, are often signed for one year with renewal options, although longer terms are possible. Utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet are typically billed separately.
For those looking to buy property, it is important to budget for additional expenses such as property transfer tax, notary and registration fees, and real estate agency commissions, which together can add around 4%–6% of the property’s purchase price.
For newcomers, some of the most popular residential neighborhoods in major Hungarian cities include:
- District V, Budapest – Central location with historic architecture and easy access to services
- District II, Budapest – Green, family-friendly area with parks and international schools
- Újszeged, Szeged – Modern apartment complexes and proximity to universities
- Kertváros, Pécs – Quiet suburban living with local amenities and cultural attractions
Reviewed by Ingatlan Research and Duna House Market Insights, last updated July 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Hungary?
If you are a tax resident in Hungary (generally if you spend more than 183 days per year in Hungary or maintain your primary residence there), you are subject to taxation on your worldwide income. Employees and self-employed individuals are also required to contribute to Hungary’s social security system, which funds pensions, healthcare, and unemployment benefits. Hungary has signed multiple double taxation treaties to prevent residents from being taxed twice on the same income earned abroad.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax (SZJA) | Tax on global income | Flat rate of 15% |
| Social Security | Mandatory contributions for pensions and welfare | Paid by both employer and employee; includes health insurance and pension contributions |
| Double Tax Treaties | Prevent double taxation | Agreements with 70+ countries |
Reviewed by the Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (Nemzeti Adó- és Vámhivatal – NAV), last updated April 2025
How to Comply with Customs and Duty Rules When Moving to Hungary?
When relocating to Hungary, you may import your used personal belongings duty-free if they have been owned and used for at least six months and are intended for personal use. Required documentation includes a detailed inventory, proof of residence transfer, a bill of lading or airway bill, and valid identification.
New items or commercial goods are generally subject to import duties and VAT, while restricted items such as alcohol, tobacco, or certain electronics may require special permits. Accurate customs declarations help avoid delays or additional charges at major Hungarian customs offices, including Budapest, Debrecen, and Győr.
Reviewed by the Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (Nemzeti Adó- és Vámhivatal – NAV), last updated February 2025
Real-life case:
“When I moved from Munich to Budapest, I prepared a detailed inventory of all my used household items and submitted it to Hungarian customs. Under Hungary’s transfer of residence rules, my shipment was cleared smoothly and exempt from additional duties.” — László K.
How to Manage Pet Relocation When Moving to Hungary?
Pets entering Hungary must comply with health and identification regulations. Dogs, cats, and ferrets require a microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Pets arriving from non-EU countries may need additional certified documents, and certain animals could be subject to extra checks or quarantine.
To ensure smooth entry, it is important to notify Hungarian customs and veterinary authorities in advance. Many pet owners use professional relocation services to handle documentation, transport, and regulatory compliance, minimizing stress and delays.
Reviewed by the Hungarian National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih – Állategészségügyi és Élelmiszerlánc-felügyeleti Igazgatóság), last updated in March 2025.
How to Import a Car and Swap Your Driver’s Licence in Hungary?
Imported vehicles must be declared to Hungarian Customs (Nemzeti Adó- és Vámhivatal – NAV). Vehicles arriving from outside the EU may be subject to import duties, VAT, and must comply with EU safety and environmental standards. Permanently imported vehicles must undergo a technical inspection and be registered with the National Transport Authority (Nemzeti Közlekedési Hatóság – NKH). Required documents typically include the original title, proof of ownership, and any conformity certificates.
Foreign driver’s licenses are generally valid for short-term stays. For legal residents, licenses must be exchanged for a Hungarian driving license, with requirements varying by country of origin. Some bilateral agreements waive exams, while others may require written and driving tests.
Reviewed by the Hungarian National Transport Authority (NKH) and Hungarian Customs (NAV), last updated in July 2025.
How to Open a Bank Account and Obtain a Tax ID in Hungary?
To open a bank account in Hungary, you generally need a valid passport or national ID, proof of Hungarian address (such as a rental contract or utility bill), and an adószám, the Hungarian tax identification number. The adószám is essential for most legal and financial activities in Hungary, including employment, healthcare registration, and signing contracts.
Major banks in Hungary—such as OTP Bank, K&H Bank, and Erste Bank—offer accounts for non-residents and newcomers, often providing multilingual support and online banking in English. Non-residents can open an account under slightly different conditions, and once legal residency is established, the account can typically be upgraded to access broader services, including overdrafts, loans, and investment options.
The adószám can be obtained through the Hungarian Tax and Customs Administration (Nemzeti Adó- és Vámhivatal – NAV), and is required for activities such as signing rental contracts, employment registration, or accessing certain public services.
Reviewed by the Bank of Hungary and Hungarian Tax and Customs Administration (NAV), last updated in July 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for The Netherlands and United Kingdom with ReloAdvisor.
