Hungary Student Visa 2025 New Changes for EEA and Non-EEA Applicants
Hungary has officially updated its visa policy for citizens of countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA), including non-EU nations and Switzerland. This latest policy affects thousands of visa seekers—especially international students—planning short or long stays in Hungary in 2025.
Here’s what you must know if you’re a third (3rd) country national aiming to study, work, or reside in Hungary.
New Updates at a Glance
- Mandatory visa required for all non-EEA nationals staying in Hungary for over 90 days.
- D-type long-term visa and residence permit required for students and long-term visitors.
- Applications must be submitted from home countries—no more applying from within Hungary.
- More documentation now required to prove financial means, accommodation, and insurance.
- Entry to Hungary does not finalize your stay—students must register locally to obtain their residence card.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Visa Explained
-
Short-Term Visa (Type C):
For visits up to 90 days, such as tourism or business. You must apply before travel if your country is under Schengen visa obligations. -
Long-Term Visa (Type D):
For stays over 90 days, particularly for students pursuing full-time studies or individuals relocating for work, family reunification, or research. This visa must be obtained in advance and is only valid for single entry—you must convert it to a residence permit after arrival.Advertisement
Special Attention for International Students
Planning to join a Hungarian university in Fall 2025? You’ll need the following:
Documents Required for the Study Visa:
- Completed residence permit application form (in English or Hungarian)
- Valid passport (valid for 3+ months beyond stay)
- One recent passport-size photo
- Official Letter of Admission from your university (e.g., University of Pécs)
- Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or dorm booking)
- Financial documents to show you can support yourself: Bank statements, parent/guardian declaration, or scholarship letter (if funded).
- Tuition payment proof or exemption confirmation
- Valid travel insurance covering medical, accident, and repatriation
- Visa fee payment receipt.
Note: All documents must be submitted in person at the Hungarian Embassy or Consulate in your country of citizenship or legal residence.
Processing Time & Embassy Notes
- Processing time: Can take several weeks, depending on location and documentation.
- Appointments may be required, and embassies may ask for additional local documents.
- Always check the official website of your local Hungarian Embassy for up-to-date procedures.
Post-Arrival Requirements
Once in Hungary with a valid D-type visa, students are not done yet here’s what must follow:
- Register Accommodation: Report your address via the Enter Hungary platform.
- Finalize Residence Permit: Submit any outstanding documents to receive your residence card, the only legal proof of stay during your academic program.
- Card Delivery: Usually sent to your university. The university will notify you once it arrives.
Hungary Student Visa & Residence Policy Comparison (2025)
| Category | EEA/Swiss Citizens | Non-EEA Citizens (Third-Country Nationals) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Requirement to Enter Hungary | ❌ No visa required for entry with passport or ID card | ✅ Visa required prior to travel (Schengen Type C for short stays, Type D for long-term stays) |
| Maximum Stay Without Extra Formalities | ✅ Up to 90 days without registration | ❌ Maximum 90 days only with visa, longer stays require residence permit |
| Purpose of Stay Over 90 Days | Must register for educational stays (e.g., university studies) | Must apply for a D-type visa and residence permit before arrival |
| Where to Apply | Register in Hungary (NDGAP office or Enter Hungary portal) | Apply in home country at Hungarian Embassy or Consulate |
| Registration Requirement After Arrival | ✅ Yes, required within 93 days of arrival for stays >90 days | ✅ Yes, complete residence permit process after arrival via Enter Hungary and register accommodation |
| Required Documents | – Valid ID/passport – University admission letter – Proof of accommodation – Health insurance (e.g., EHIC) – Proof of funds | – Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay – Admission letter – Proof of accommodation – Health insurance – Proof of funds – Tuition fee receipt or scholarship – Visa fee payment |
| Health Insurance Accepted | EU Health Insurance Card or private health insurance | Must have travel/health insurance covering emergency care, repatriation, accidents |
| Type of Residence Document Issued | Registration Certificate (no expiry but linked to valid ID/passport) | Residence Permit Card (valid for study period; renewable) |
| Permitted Work While Studying | ✅ Allowed under general EU student mobility rights | ✅ Allowed (subject to limits defined in residence permit) |
| Renewal or Extension | Not required unless personal data changes (update registration) | Renewal of residence permit required before expiry |
| Failure to Register or Update Info | ⚠️ May result in fines or legal complications | ❌ Illegal stay may result in visa cancellation, fines, or deportation |
References
- https://international.pte.hu/visa-citizens-countries-outside-eea
- https://international.pte.hu/visa-citizens-eu-eea-member-states.
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