Hungary Schengen Visa – Essential Travel Guide and Requirements
Planning a trip to Hungary? A Schengen visa allows you to visit Hungary and 28 other European countries. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the application process and requirements.
Why Visit Hungary?
Hungary is famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture:
Tourism: Explore the breathtaking sights of Budapest (opens in new tab), relax in the thermal baths, and savor the delicious cuisine at traditional restaurants.
Business: Hungary is a growing hub for various industries, including technology, automotive, and tourism, making it a significant destination for business travelers.
Hungary Schengen Visa Requirements
To apply for a Hungary Schengen Visa, you’ll need the following documents:
- Visa Application Form:
- Complete the visa application, print it out and sign it.
- Photograph:
- One recent passport-sized photo (not older than six months) with a white or light background and a neutral facial expression. See the photo guidelines (PDF) (opens in new tab).
- Passport (Original and Copy):
A signed passport issued within the last 10 years.
Must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
Contains at least two blank pages for affixing the visa sticker.
Include photocopies of the pages with personal data.
- Proof of UK Residency:
Digital proof of immigration status issued by the UK Home Office (share code). UK immigration status is now held as a UKVI eVisa. Physical BRPs expired on 31 December 2024 and are no longer valid. Provide a share code from the UKVI online checking service (opens in new tab). The share code must confirm residency valid for at least one month beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Member States (or confirmed flight ticket to the country of origin).
- Proof of Employment/Socioeconomic Status:
For Employees: A recent official letter from the employer (not older than 30 days), including name, date of issue, address, contact details, position of the signatory, registration number in the UK, and salary details, along with pay slips for the last three months.
For Self-Employed: A letter from an accountant, banker, or solicitor confirming the nature of self-employment or business ownership, along with a self-assessment form and a recent letter from tax authorities.
For Students: A recent letter from the educational institution confirming enrollment and details of the studies.
For Unemployed: Official proof of receiving benefits from the government.
- Proof of Sufficient Funds:
Last 3 months of UK bank account statements (original and copy) in your name, showing balance and proving sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (minimum of €40 per day).
Credit card statement indicating the cardholder’s name and monthly limit.
- Proof of Return or Onward Travel:
Confirmed return ticket to the UK or proof of onward travel (such as an entry authorization into another country or confirmed overseas ticket).
If traveling by car, provide car registration, insurance documents, and return ferry tickets.
- Proof of Accommodation:
Confirmed hotel reservations, rental agreements, or proof of accommodation with a family member or friend, including any sponsorship documents if applicable.
If the applicant’s name is not mentioned on the accommodation reservation, a joint travel confirmation letter signed and dated by the person whose name is on the reservation must be provided along with a photocopy of that person’s passport/ID card.
Travel Health Insurance: Must show the applicant’s name, have coverage of at least €30,000, be valid in all Schengen countries, and cover the entire period of intended stay in the Schengen area. The insurance must be obtained from a company based in the United Kingdom or a Member State.
For Minors (Under 18 Years):
Birth certificate showing both parents’ names.
If traveling alone or with only one parent: Original passports of both parents or certified copies, written consent from the non-traveling parent, and a British school certificate.
In the case of sole custody: Provide one of the following documents:
Birth certificate mentioning one parent.
Death certificate of the absent parent.
Court ruling indicating sole custody.
- Proof of Business Invitation:
- An invitation from a firm or authority in Hungary to attend meetings, conferences, or proof of registration for events connected with trade, industry, or work.
When to Apply for a Hungary Schengen Visa
Submit your application at least 15 days before your intended travel date and no earlier than 6 months before departure. Early application helps avoid delays and ensures sufficient time for processing.
Processing Times
The minimum processing time for a visa application is 15 calendar days from the day the application reaches the Mission.
The processing time may be extended up to a maximum of 45 calendar days in individual cases if further scrutiny is needed or additional documents are required.
Applications submitted in VFS London office will be received at the Consulate the next working day, while applications submitted in Edinburgh will take three working days.
Types of Visas for Visiting Hungary
The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your trip:
- Short-Stay Visa (Type C):
Suitable for tourism and business visits, this common Schengen visa allows travel to Hungary and across all 29 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period from entry into the Schengen zone.
Hungary Schengen Visa Fees
A Schengen visa to Hungary comes with standard fees, as these are uniform across Schengen countries:
Consulate Fee: €90 for adults.
Children (Aged 6–11): €45.
Children Under 6: Free.
VFS Fee: £24.
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to confirm the current rates before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I stay in Hungary with a Schengen visa?
Can I visit other Schengen countries with my Hungary visa?
How long does visa processing take?
Can I extend my Schengen visa in Hungary?
Is it possible to work in Hungary with a Schengen visa?
Can I study in Hungary on a Schengen visa?
A Schengen visa only allows short-term studies or training lasting less than 90 days. For longer study programs, you will need a student visa (opens in new tab).
If you want to apply with us, please start your application here.

