Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Hungary?
No, US citizens do not need a visa to visit Hungary for tourism or business purposes. Hungary is a member of the Schengen Agreement, which allows US passport holders to enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
However, starting in Q4 2026, travelers will need to complete an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) online application before arrival. This is not a visa — it's a travel authorization similar to the US ESTA system.
Good news: Hungary offers a Digital Nomad visa for US citizens who want to stay longer than 90 days while working remotely for non-Hungarian employers.
How Long Can Americans Stay in Hungary?
US citizens can stay in Hungary for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. This is called the Schengen 90/180 rule.
Here's how it works:
- You can spend 90 days total across ALL Schengen countries
- The 180-day period is a rolling window — it looks back from today's date
- Time spent in Hungary counts toward your total Schengen allowance
- You cannot "reset" the count by leaving and re-entering the Schengen Area
Alternative for remote workers: If you want to stay longer than 90 days while working remotely, Hungary's Digital Nomad visa allows stays up to 1 year (with option to extend for another year). This is separate from the Schengen 90/180 rule.
Entry Requirements for Hungary
To enter Hungary as a US citizen, you need:
- Valid US passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area
- Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements or credit cards showing you can support yourself
- Return or onward ticket: Evidence that you plan to leave the Schengen Area within 90 days
- ETIAS authorization (from Q4 2026): Pre-travel online application, valid for 3 years
Hungarian immigration officials may ask to see these documents at the border, though checks are typically minimal for US citizens.
What Counts Toward Your 90 Days?
Any time spent in the 27 Schengen countries counts toward your 90-day limit:
Schengen Countries (27): Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland (plus Liechtenstein).
Days are counted as:
- Day of entry counts as day 1
- Day of exit counts as a full day
- Partial days count as full days
Use a Schengen calculator to track your days accurately — overstaying can result in serious consequences.
Overstay Consequences
Overstaying your 90-day Schengen limit in Hungary can lead to:
- Fines (amount varies, can be substantial)
- Deportation and a ban from the Schengen Area (typically 1-5 years)
- A permanent mark on your immigration record
- Difficulty obtaining future Schengen visas or ETIAS authorizations
- Detention until deportation arrangements are made
Hungarian authorities take overstays seriously. If you realize you've overstayed, contact Hungarian immigration immediately — voluntary disclosure may reduce penalties.
ETIAS: What You Need to Know
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) launches in Q4 2026. Here's what changes:
- Pre-travel authorization required: Must apply online before traveling to any Schengen country
- Cost: €7 (approximately $8 USD)
- Validity: 3 years or until passport expires, whichever comes first
- Processing: Usually approved within minutes, can take up to 30 days in some cases
- Multiple entries: Use it for multiple trips within the 3-year validity period
Apply at the official ETIAS website before your trip. Third-party services charge extra fees unnecessarily.
Hungary-Specific Gotchas
Here are important Hungary-specific considerations US travelers should know:
Digital Nomad visa available: Hungary offers a "White Card" Digital Nomad visa for remote workers. It allows stays up to 1 year (extendable for another year) for those working remotely for non-Hungarian companies. This is an excellent option for digital nomads who want to base themselves in Budapest beyond the 90-day limit. Check the Hungarian embassy website for application requirements.
Currency is NOT the Euro: Hungary is an EU member and a Schengen member, but does NOT use the Euro. The currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted in Budapest and major cities, but carry cash for smaller towns. Exchange rates are better at ATMs than at exchange offices.
Borders with non-Schengen countries: Hungary shares borders with Ukraine and Serbia, which are NOT Schengen members. Crossing these borders involves passport control and customs checks. Plan accordingly if doing road trips.
Budapest thermal baths: Hungary is famous for its thermal baths (especially in Budapest: Széchenyi, Gellért, Rudas). These are cultural landmarks and worth visiting, but note that some have specific rules about swimwear, caps, and behavior. Check before you go.
Pickpocketing in Budapest: Petty theft is common in tourist areas, especially on public transportation (metro, trams, buses) and at major attractions (Chain Bridge, Parliament, Váci Street). Keep valuables secure and be vigilant.
Overcharging scams: Some restaurants and taxis in Budapest overcharge tourists. Always verify prices before ordering or getting in a taxi. Ask for itemized receipts. Use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or official taxi stands instead of hailing cabs on the street.
Zero tolerance for drunk driving: Hungary has a 0.00% blood-alcohol limit for driving. Any detectable alcohol is illegal. Police conduct frequent roadside checks. Penalties are severe, including prison sentences for violations.
FAQs
Can I work remotely from Hungary on the 90-day visa waiver?
Technically, the visa waiver is for tourism only. However, if you're working remotely for a non-Hungarian company (not seeking local employment), it's generally tolerated for short stays. For longer remote work stays, apply for Hungary's Digital Nomad visa (White Card) which allows up to 1 year.
How do I apply for Hungary's Digital Nomad visa?
Contact the Hungarian embassy or consulate before your trip. The "White Card" Digital Nomad visa allows remote workers to stay up to 1 year (extendable for another year). Requirements typically include proof of remote employment, sufficient income, and health insurance. Visit the Hungarian embassy website for current application details.
Can I use Euros in Hungary?
Some tourist businesses in Budapest may accept Euros, but you'll get a poor exchange rate. The official currency is Hungarian Forint (HUF). Use ATMs or exchange offices for better rates. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities.
Is it safe to cross into Ukraine or Serbia from Hungary?
These are international borders with full passport and customs control. Ukraine and Serbia are NOT Schengen members. Check current travel advisories before attempting to cross — the US State Department issues warnings for certain regions, especially near Ukraine due to ongoing conflict.
What if I want to stay longer than 90 days (not for remote work)?
You need a long-term visa or residence permit. Contact the Hungarian embassy before your trip. You cannot apply for an extension while in Hungary on the visa waiver. Digital Nomad visa is for remote workers; other long-term stays require different visa types.
Last verified: February 15, 2026 from travel.state.gov
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