Investment opportunities in Hungary: smart ways to invest in a strong CEE economy
Hungary is an appealing destination for foreign investors thanks to its central European location, skilled workforce, low corporate tax rates, and generous government support — especially in high-tech and automotive industries.
In 2025, Hungary boasts Central-Eastern Europe’s second-highest FDI-to-GDP ratio. The country continues to draw major investment, particularly from Asia, in sectors like electric vehicles and battery production.
Read on to explore investment opportunities and find out what to expect as a foreign investor in Hungary.

Explained why invest in Hungary as a foreigner
Fact checked byAlevtina Kalmuk
Reviewed byVladlena Baranova

Investment opportunities in Hungary: smart ways to invest in a strong CEE economy
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Why should foreign investors choose Hungary: 7 key benefits
1. Investor-friendly legal environment. As Hungary is an EU member, its legislation is fully transparent and harmonised with EU law. The process of company registration under a simplified procedure takes 1—2 days, and the costs are low compared to other EU countries.
The World Bank’s inaugural Business Ready report, released in October 2024, assessed the quality of regulations and public services across 50 economies. Hungary achieved the highest score in the regulatory framework category at 78.23%, indicating a favorable environment for business operations.
2. Solid banking system. The Hungarian banking system is considered one of the healthiest and most developed in Central and Eastern Europe. There are about 40 banks, including branches of major European banks such as OTP Bank, Raiffeisen Bank, and Erste Bank.
Opening bank accounts is available to both residents and non-residents. Hungarian bank account holders can make facilitated bank transfers to other EU countries via the SEPA system.
3. Business-friendly tax regime. In Hungary, companies pay an income tax at a flat rate of 9%. To compare, in neighbouring Austria, the corporate income tax is 25%; in Germany, the total tax paid by companies may reach 30%.
Hungarian companies also pay no withholding tax on outbound payments to foreign businesses.
The general VAT rate is 27%, which is high when compared to other EU countries. However, there are reduced VAT rates of 5% and 18% applied to certain categories, such as bread, dairy products, medicines, or internet and accommodation services.
4. Subsidies and incentives for businesses. The Hungarian Government offers a range of measures to support business competitiveness. They include regional and non-regional aid from funds, VIP investment cash subsidies, and tax incentives for certain types of businesses and investment projects.
5. Favourable location. Hungary is located at the crossroads of major transport paths, allowing quick access to any part of Europe. It ranks 5th in railway density in the EU and has three international airports. The one in Budapest offers direct flights to more than 120 destinations worldwide.
6. Affordable cost of living. The Hungarian price level indices for consumer goods and services are 30% lower than the EU average. Prices for electricity, gas, and fuels are the lowest in the EU, according to Eurostat.
7. Opportunity to obtain residency by investment. Foreigners purchasing units of Hungarian real estate funds can get a residence permit for 10 years. To qualify, they invest at least €250,000.

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Overview of the Hungarian economy
The economy of Hungary ranks 50th in the world per GDP per capita and 54th in terms of the total GDP, as per the International Monetary Fund data.
The Hungarian GDP per capita is comparable to those of Portugal and Russia. From 2017 to 2022, it increased from around 69% to 74.7% of the EU average and reached the level of $46,372 in 2024.
The country showed a stable economic recovery after the COVID‑19 pandemic. However, in Q3 2023, the economic growth slowed down and showed a decrease of 0.4% compared to Q3 2022. In 2025, the country’s economy is expected to grow by 3.3%.
Up to 80% of the country’s GDP accounts for exports. Hungary’s most important trading partners in the EU are Germany, Italy, and Romania. The largest non-EU export partner is the United States.
Key sectors of the Hungarian economy include building materials, food, textiles, chemicals, motor vehicles, IT, electronics, and software.
The labour market has improved significantly in the recent decade. The current unemployment rate is around 4.7%, projected by OECD to lower to 4.0% by 2026.

The values are measured by the purchasing power parity and represented in thousand dollars. Source: International Monetary Fund
Obtaining a Hungary Golden Visa by buying real estate fund units
The Hungary Golden Visa program allows investors in Hungarian property to obtain a 10-year residence permit in the country. Thus, Golden Visa holders can move to Hungary and stay there for more than 90 days out of 180.
Investment options. Hungary offers two investment paths for residency:
purchase real estate investment fund units for at least €250,000;
or donate to a higher educational institution at least €1,000,000.
Among EU Golden Visa countries, only Portugal has a similar fund units option, but the investment threshold there is €500,000.
Eligible investment funds. For a fund to be eligible for the Golden Visa, it must be included in the list of approved market operators maintained by the Constitution Protection Office. Additionally, a minimum of 40% of its assets must be invested in residential real estate located in Hungary.
In 2025, there are two approved investment funds: the Gravitas Hungary Fund and the SPRINT Real Estate Development and Investment Fund.
The Gravitas Hungary Fund, part of the long-established Gránit group, was created for Golden Visa applicants. It invests at least 40% of its assets in Hungarian residential real estate — mainly modern apartments for long-term leasing — with the rest allocated to bonds and other real estate projects.
The fund offers an estimated annual yield of 5—6%.
The SPRINT Real Estate Development and Investment Fund is a private and closed-end. It focuses on capital growth and consistent income generation through strategic real estate investments.
The fund’s portfolio includes residential properties, logistics complexes, hotels, and office buildings, primarily located in Hungary.
Comparison of Hungarian Golden Visa investment funds
Applicant eligibility. The Golden Visa is designed for non-EU and non-EEA citizens willing to invest in the Hungarian economy. Applications from US citizens are currently accepted only if they have second citizenship.
A spouse, children under 25, and parents can obtain residence permits together with the investor.
Golden Visa validity. Residency can be renewed once for an additional 10 years. To be eligible for an extension, the investor must still possess the investment asset.
How to get Hungarian residence permit by investment
Obtaining the Hungary Golden Visa takes 5+ months.
Immigrant Invest accompanies applicants throughout the entire process: assists in fund selection, document preparation, dealing with the authorities, and extending the residence permit after its expiration.
1 day
Preliminary Due Diligence
Immigrant Invest lawyers check the investor’s information against international databases. This check is fully confidential and helps identify the risk of denial and reduce it to a minimum.
Immigrant Invest lawyers check the investor’s information against international databases. This check is fully confidential and helps identify the risk of denial and reduce it to a minimum.
2 weeks
Choosing the investment option and preparing documents
Immigrant Invest lawyers help the investor choose the appropriate investment option and fund.
The lawyers provide the list of documents to be prepared, translate them, and notarise copies.
Immigrant Invest lawyers help the investor choose the appropriate investment option and fund.
The lawyers provide the list of documents to be prepared, translate them, and notarise copies.
3 weeks
Obtaining the Guest Investor Visa
With the Guest Investor Visa, the applicant can enter Hungary to make the investment. The visa is valid for 6 months and allows multiple entries.
With the Guest Investor Visa, the applicant can enter Hungary to make the investment. The visa is valid for 6 months and allows multiple entries.
Up to 93 days
Fulfilling the investment condition
Within 93 days after first entering Hungary with the Guest Investor Visa, the applicant must fulfil the investment condition and apply for a residence permit.
Within 93 days after first entering Hungary with the Guest Investor Visa, the applicant must fulfil the investment condition and apply for a residence permit.
Up to 30 days
Waiting for approval
After the investment is made, the investor applies for a residence permit. The application is usually processed within 21—30 days.
After the investment is made, the investor applies for a residence permit. The application is usually processed within 21—30 days.
Up to 7 days
Getting a residence permit card
The investor visits the Hungarian migration office at the specified time, provides personal documents, submits biometrics, and takes a photo for an RP card.
The card is usually mailed to the investor’s address within 7 days after the application approval.
The investor visits the Hungarian migration office at the specified time, provides personal documents, submits biometrics, and takes a photo for an RP card.
The card is usually mailed to the investor’s address within 7 days after the application approval.
10 years later
Residence permit renewal
To qualify for an RP renewal, the investor has to keep their investments in Hungary. The residence permit is extended for an additional 10 years.
To qualify for an RP renewal, the investor has to keep their investments in Hungary. The residence permit is extended for an additional 10 years.
Purchasing Hungarian securities as a foreign investor
Market performance. Hungary’s stock market has shown strong growth. In 2024, the BUX index — the country’s main market benchmark tracking top listed firms such as OTP Bank, energy company MOL, and pharmaceutical company Richter — rose by 30.9%. This reflects growing investor confidence and a positive economic outlook.
How to invest. Foreign nationals looking to invest in Hungarian shares and bonds can do so through the Budapest Stock Exchange, which is the country’s main stock market. All securities are traded online through a dedicated system and can be bought via licensed exchange dealers.
Government securities are considered the safest and most conservative investment option in Hungary. Most of them pay regular interest, known as coupons, and are fully repaid when they reach maturity.
The interest rate on these securities depends on factors like the issue date, length of the investment, and, for some types, the current rate of inflation. At present, average returns range from 6.2 to 6.8% per year.
Both residents and non-residents can invest in Hungarian government bonds. Non-residents must follow the legal requirements of both Hungary and their home country when buying or selling these assets.
Examples of Hungarian Government securities
Features of business investments in Hungary
The Hungarian Government encourages investments in business. To promote foreign direct investments, it continuously improves the taxation system. Currently, Hungarian companies pay the EU lowest corporate tax — at a 9% rate regardless of the income.
Hungarian businesses can benefit from various subsidies and incentives provided by both the government and different funds.
The VIP cash subsidy system enhances business competitiveness. It is a non-refundable cash grant provided for investment, job creation, R&D, and training projects. The subsidy amount may reach 50% of eligible investment costs depending on the investment type and the region in which the company is registered.
Other eligibility criteria for subsidies may include maintaining investments for a certain number of years, creating the stated number of jobs, and showing an increase in wage costs or base sales revenue.
Tax incentives allow businesses to optimise their taxes. The development tax incentive may be claimed for 13 years from the year of the investment and allows a deduction of up to 80% of the annual payable corporate income tax.
Tax incentives for energy efficiency investment projects depend on the location of the investment and allow deduction of up to 45% of eligible costs, with a maximum amount of €15 million. A company may claim the incentive from the tax year the investment is made and in the following five tax years.
Residency for business owners. Hungary offers a business residence permit tailored for non-EU and non-EEA entrepreneurs who establish a company in the country. The permit is initially granted for 1 year and may be extended for a further 2 years.

Ferenc Tihánszky,
Head of the Hungarian office
To qualify, applicants must register a legal entity — typically a limited liability company, Kft, — with a minimum authorised capital of €7,700. They must also prove that their business can generate a monthly income of at least €1,500, either through a viable business plan or by employing at least five EU or Hungarian citizens.
Sectors that are booming in Hungary
Hungary’s economy is shifting fast. Several sectors are not only thriving but also offering strong returns for investors.
Tech and digital innovation. Hungary’s tech scene is expanding rapidly, with startups and scale-ups driving innovation in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. The government’s digitalisation agenda and rising demand for outsourced services have made the country a regional tech hub.
This momentum extends into AgTech, EdTech, and FinTech, where AI and automation are transforming agriculture, education, and finance. The result is a strong ecosystem for early-stage investment, venture capital, and cross-border M&A, supported by deep talent in machine learning and blockchain.
Retail rebound. Retail sales rose 5% year-on-year in April 2025, outpacing forecasts. Higher real wages and rising consumer confidence are driving this growth. For investors, it’s a clear signal: funds focused on retail, e-commerce, and real estate in Central Europe have a strong case.
Healthcare and life sciences. An ageing population and chronic staff shortages are fuelling demand for healthcare services. This includes private clinics, telemedicine, and medical devices. Hungary’s health sector is still underdeveloped — meaning plenty of room for growth.
Construction and infrastructure. Urban expansion and EU-backed public works are powering the construction sector. There’s sustained demand for real estate projects, modular housing, and construction tech. For investors, public-private partnerships offer stable, long-term gains.
Automotive and engineering. Hungary remains central to Europe’s car industry, hosting Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Suzuki. The focus is now on localising supply chains and shifting to electric vehicles. Opportunities include battery production, R&D labs, and specialised components.
Logistics and supply chain. Hungary’s location at the crossroads of Europe makes it a logistics hub. E-commerce is surging, and so is the need for modern warehouses, last-mile delivery, and freight services. Investors are eyeing industrial real estate and automation.
Renewable energy. Hungary aims to be carbon neutral by 2050. Solar, nuclear, and wind investments are already under way. There’s growing space for green infrastructure, smart grids, storage, and clean energy startups — boosted by EU funding and pro-renewables policies.
Tourism and hospitality. Tourism is recovering, with Budapest and spa towns leading the rebound. Government campaigns and pent-up travel demand are reviving hotels and wellness resorts. Investors are betting on boutique stays and experience-based tourism.
Property investment in Hungary
Hungarian legislation allows foreigners to purchase property. To do this, they must obtain permission from the competent government agency. The deal is always accompanied by the lawyer who obtains permission and communicates with the authorities on the investor’s behalf.
Property prices in Hungary are continuously increasing: since 2010, they have risen by 230%, according to Eurostat.
The average property price for new real estate per square metre is about €2,900. The most expensive real estate is located in Budapest: here, the average price is €3,695 per square metre, reaching €5,500 per square metre in prestigious and tourist parts of the city.
Most real estate expenses include the 4% stamp duty for the title transfer, administrative fees, and charges for legal, realtor, and notary services. Total accompanying expenses usually equal 10% of the property price.
When selling the property, the investor pays a capital gains tax at 15% of the difference between the purchasing and selling price.
The annual rental yield is 3.5 to 8%, depending on the property and region. For example, in Budapest, monthly rental prices start at HUF 235,000, which is about 580 €.
Residency eligibility. Foreign investors cannot buy real estate and automatically qualify for a residence permit.
However, residency applicants usually need a registered address in Hungary; therefore, they purchase or rent residential properties in the country, among fulfilling other requirements.
How to choose the best way to invest in Hungary
Hungary offers a variety of investment options to match different goals:
for residency, real estate investment funds are a top choice: a €250,000 investment in approved funds like Gravitas secures a 10-year Golden Visa and delivers stable 5—6% returns;
for conservative investors, government bonds yield 6.2—6.8% and offer capital protection, though they don’t provide residency;
if you prefer tangible assets, direct property purchases offer up to 8% rental yield and long-term growth, with Budapest real estate being the most in-demand;
for profit potential with residency, backed by Hungary’s 9% corporate tax and strong incentives, starting a business is an option;
higher returns are expected for experienced investors on the stock market, but this option comes with greater risk and no immigration benefits.
Business vs. real estate vs. bonds vs. stocks vs. investment funds: side-by-side comparison
Risks and сhallenges of investing in Hungary
While Hungary offers many advantages for foreign investors, it’s important to understand the potential risks before committing capital. Awareness of these challenges will help you build a more resilient strategy.
Regulatory changes and bureaucracy. Although Hungary has an investor-friendly legal framework, regulatory updates can affect sectors like real estate, finance, and energy. Changes in immigration rules, tax incentives, or fund eligibility criteria can impact returns or residency timelines.
Navigating local bureaucracy may also be time-consuming without professional support, especially for company formation or property acquisition.
Currency and inflation risks. Hungary’s currency, the forint (HUF), can be volatile against the euro or US dollar. Currency fluctuations may erode returns for foreign investors, particularly in long-term investments like real estate or bonds.
Inflation can also affect the real value of rental income or bond yields, especially for fixed-rate instruments.
Liquidity and exit constraints. Certain investment routes — such as direct property purchases, private business ventures, and closed-end real estate funds — come with limited liquidity. Exiting these investments may take months and involve legal or financial costs. This can complicate capital repatriation or reinvestment planning.
Market competition and pricing pressure. Budapest and other key regions are becoming increasingly competitive. Property prices have risen sharply in recent years, narrowing profit margins. Similarly, the startup and tech sectors are attracting more foreign capital, which may raise entry thresholds and lower future growth expectations.
Operational and compliance burden. Investments that require active management — such as running a business or managing property — demand time, local knowledge, and regulatory compliance. Failure to meet labour, tax, or reporting obligations may result in penalties or residency permit issues.
Key points on Hungary foreign investment
Hungary encourages foreign investments. It offers an investor-friendly legal environment, low corporate income tax rate, and various subsidies for business.
The Hungarian economy ranks 54th in the world per total GDP and is expected to grow by 3.3% in 2025.
Investors benefit from various grants and tax incentives provided by the Government. The corporate income tax for businesses is 9% — the lowest in the EU.
Hungarian government securities are a conservative and safe investment tool that can bring a yield of 6.2—6.8% per annum.
Business owners can get residence permits if they register a legal entity in Hungary. The permit is granted for 1 year, subject to extension for 2 years.
Foreign citizens are allowed to purchase real estate in Hungary. Investors buying residential property can qualify for residency if they meet other requirements corresponding to the desired residency type.
Investors can purchase real estate investment fund units for at least €250,000 and obtain a Golden Visa for 10 years.
Immigrant Invest is a licensed agent for citizenship and residence by investment programs in the EU, the Caribbean, Asia, and the Middle East. Take advantage of our global 15-year expertise — schedule a meeting with our investment programs experts.

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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Hungary allows and promotes foreign investments to stimulate the economy. The most popular options include investments in business, securities, and property.
In 2024, the Hungarian Government launched the Hungary Golden Visa, granting 10-year residence permits in return for investment.
Investment options available under the program are:
€1,000,000+ — donation to an institution of higher learning.
Hungary is continuously developing measures to support business. For example, the current corporate income tax rate is 9%, which is the lowest in the European Union.
Hungarian businesses can benefit from various subsidies and incentives provided by both the government and different funds.
Subsidies are realised under the VIP cash subsidy system — non-refundable cash grants provided for investment, job creation, R&D, and training projects. The subsidy amount may reach 50% of investment costs depending on the investment type and the region of the company’s registration.
Hungary encourages foreign investments. It offers an investor-friendly legal environment, low corporate income tax rate, and different business subsidies.
Investors in Hungarian real estate funds are granted residency for 10 years.
The Hungarian economy ranks 54th in the world per total GDP and 50th in terms of GDP per capita measured by the purchasing power parity. The country showed a stable economic recovery after the COVID‑19 pandemic. In 2025, the economy of the country is expected to grow by 3.3%.
Key sectors of the Hungarian economy include building materials, food, textiles, chemicals, motor vehicles, IT, electronics, and software.
Yes, Hungarian legislation allows foreigners to purchase property in the country. To do this, they must obtain permission from the competent government agency. The lawyer claims permission on the buyer’s behalf.
Hungarian government securities are considered a conservative and safe investment tool. They are available to both residents and non-residents.
Most securities offer regular coupons. Interest rates depend on the issue date, maturity period, and the current inflation rate in the case of securities with a floating coupon. The current average interest rate ranges from 6.2 to 6.8%.
Opening a bank account in Hungary as a foreigner is usually a simple process. In most cases, you’ll need to visit a local bank branch in person. Banks typically require a valid passport and proof of address to get started.
If you live in Hungary, you will likely need a residence permit or address card. If you are not a resident, you may still be able to open an account, but you’ll need to show a connection to the country — for example, a rental agreement, property ownership, or records of frequent travel to Hungary. Some banks may also ask for extra documents, such as a work permit or an employment contract.
Yes, but you must meet strict requirements set by banks. All applicants must have a Hungarian tax ID, proof of stable, verifiable income.
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can apply once they have a Hungarian registration card and address card. Citizens from other countries usually need a permanent residence permit, which is typically granted after at least 3 years of legal stay, and the Acquisition Permit (AIP).
Property owners in Hungary face several ongoing costs. Local property tax depends on the municipality, with a legal maximum of 950 HUF (€2.40) per m² per year or 6% of adjusted market value, though some towns charge less or nothing.
Apartment owners pay monthly common costs of €1—2.50 per m², covering cleaning, lifts, rubbish collection and a reserve fund. Utilities for an 80 m² flat in Budapest typically cost €90—150 per month, depending on usage. Property insurance averages €180—300 per year.
Rental income is taxed at a flat 15% on net profit, after deducting either a 10% allowance or actual costs.
No, buying a property in Hungary does not give you the right to live there. The country considered a residency-by-property investment option, but it was cancelled before it ever started.
At the moment, you can apply for a residence permit in Hungary through one of two investment routes:
Invest at least €250,000 in a Hungarian real estate fund.
Make a non-refundable donation of €1 million to a public trust that supports higher education.
These are the only available options under Hungary’s residency by investment program.
Hungary does not offer direct citizenship in exchange for investment. To become a Hungarian citizen, you must go through several steps over several years.
Here’s how the process works:
Get residency first by investing in a real estate fund or donating to a public trust.
Live in Hungary for at least 3 years to qualify for permanent residency.
After that, you must live in Hungary for 8 years in total before you can apply for citizenship by naturalisation.
So while investment can help you start the journey, it does not guarantee citizenship.
Hungary’s most successful local business is OTP Bank, based on stock market value. As of June 2025, it was worth around $19.6 billion. It is also the most profitable public company in the country, earning €2.7 billion in net profits last year.
In terms of revenue, the leader is MOL Group, Hungary’s main oil and gas company. It brought in around $24.8 billion in 2024.
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