Hungary Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Entry to the 27-country Schengen Area for up to 90 days
- Ideal for sightseeing in Budapest and the Danube Bend
- Standardised application process for third-country nationals
- Multiple-entry options available for frequent travellers
- Covers leisure, family visits, and short-term study tours
- Mandatory biometric data collection for security
- Reciprocal fee waivers for certain nationalities
Processing time
15 calendar days
During peak summer or Christmas periods, processing can take up to 45 days. Always apply early.
Estimated cost
~$125 (including service fees)
- Standard Schengen Visa fee (12+ years)€80 (~$87)
- Child fee (6-12 years)€40 (~$44)
- VFS Global/Visa Centre service feeVaries by location
Requirements
- Applicant must be a citizen of a country that does not have a visa-waiver agreement with the EU.
- Passport must have been issued within the last 10 years.
- Proof of 'means of subsistence' (minimum daily amount varies, but roughly €50-70 per day).
- Detailed travel itinerary including dates and places of stay.
- No prior history of overstaying in the Schengen Area.
- No alerts in the Schengen Information System (SIS) for refusal of entry.
- Clear evidence of ties to home country (job, property, or family).
- Personal appearance for biometric data (fingerprints) collection.
Documents you'll need
- Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
- Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond intended stay with two blank pages
- Two recent passport-sized photos meeting ICAO standards
- Valid travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Recent bank statements (usually last 3-6 months) to prove sufficient funds
- Proof of employment, student status, or retirement
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility and Jurisdiction
Determine if you require a visa based on your nationality and check which consulate or visa centre handles applications for your jurisdiction.
- 2
Complete the Application Form
Complete the official Schengen Visa application form accurately. Ensure the information matches your passport exactly.
- 3
Prepare Your Document Folder
Gather all supporting documents, including proof of funds, insurance, and accommodation bookings. Ensure all non-English or non-Hungarian documents are translated.
- 4
Schedule an Appointment
Book an appointment at the Hungarian Consulate or an authorised service provider like VFS Global. Walk-ins are rarely accepted.
- 5
Attend the Visa Interview
Attend your appointment to submit your documents, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) if required.
- 6
Wait for Processing
Wait for the consulate to process your application. You can often track the status online through the service provider's portal.
- 7
Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport or have it couriered to you. Check the visa sticker immediately for any errors.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your bank statements are recent (within 1 month) and officially stamped by the bank.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is granted; use a flight reservation instead.
- Provide a cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip and your daily itinerary in detail.
- Double-check that your insurance policy explicitly mentions 'Schengen Area' or 'Worldwide' coverage.
- Ensure your passport is not damaged; even small tears can lead to an immediate rejection.
- Be consistent with your dates across the application form, hotel bookings, and flight itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.