Moving to Hungary: A Complete Guide for Foreigners and Expats

Moving to another country is one of those decisions that can look much simpler from the outside. You see the beautiful streets of Budapest, historic buildings, thermal baths, affordable countryside properties and Hungary’s location in the heart of Europe. But moving somewhere is very different from visiting it.

Finding a place to live is only one part of the process. There are residence permits, documents, healthcare, schools, language barriers, work, bureaucracy and the much more personal challenge of building a new life and finding your place in a country that is not your own. I know this because I have been through it myself.

After living in Malta for ten years, my family and I made the decision to start a new chapter in Hungary. It was not a decision we made overnight. Malta had been our home for a decade, but after getting married and thinking seriously about the kind of life we wanted for our family, we began to realise that it was no longer the right place for us.

We wanted to be closer to family. We wanted more space, more nature and more opportunities to enjoy life outdoors with our children. We also wanted the possibility of eventually buying a home that truly felt like our own-something that had started to feel increasingly unrealistic in Malta because of rising property prices and the limitations of living on such a small and densely populated island.

After visiting Budapest several times, Hungary simply began to make sense. For my husband, it meant returning to his home country and being closer to his family. For me, it meant starting again in a completely new environment. Hungary was not necessarily the easiest option, especially as someone who does not speak Hungarian and is a third-country national, but we felt that the lifestyle and opportunities it could offer our family made the move worthwhile.

My husband moved first. He spent several months in Hungary establishing his business and finding an apartment for us to rent in Budapest’s 15th district. A few months later, I followed with our children, while continuing to work remotely for the job I had kept from Malta.

Since then, Hungary has given me plenty of reasons to love living here-but it has also shown me that relocating to a new country can be far more complicated than you expect. I love Budapest and the number of things there are to do as a family. I love having access to parks, nature, cycling, camping and outdoor activities. I love the food, the public transport and the fact that you can leave the city and find completely different landscapes, small towns and countryside within a relatively short distance.

At the same time, one of the biggest surprises for me has been how difficult and slow some parts of the administrative process can feel.

As a foreigner, getting the right documents and fully integrating into the Hungarian system has not always been straightforward. My own experience with residence procedures has involved long waiting periods, a rejection and an appeal. Healthcare has also been one of the most challenging parts of my transition. During my pregnancy, I initially had to cover healthcare costs privately while trying to understand what options were available to me and how I could access the system.

This is important to say because moving to Hungary is neither a dream-like experience without challenges nor the bureaucratic nightmare that some frustrated expats might describe after a difficult experience. The truth is somewhere in between.

Hungary can offer an excellent quality of life, particularly for families, people who enjoy nature, those looking for more space and foreigners who want to live in a country with a strong cultural identity and easy access to the rest of Europe. But depending on your nationality, residence status, work situation and personal circumstances, the administrative side of moving here may require patience, preparation and persistence.

In this guide, I will walk you through what you should consider before moving to Hungary-from choosing where to live and understanding residence requirements to healthcare, schools, the cost of living, learning Hungarian and the everyday realities of settling into life here. I will also share the things I genuinely love about living in Hungary, as well as the parts I wish I had understood better before making the move.

Why Move to Hungary?

Hungary may not be the first country that comes to mind when people think about relocating to Europe. Countries such as Spain, Portugal, Germany or Italy often receive more attention from expats and international workers. But Hungary has a lot to offer, particularly if you are looking for a balance between city life, family life, affordability and access to nature.

A central location in Europe

One of Hungary’s biggest advantages is its location. Living in Central Europe makes travelling relatively easy. Several neighbouring countries can be reached by car or train, and Budapest is also well connected by air. For people who enjoy travelling, Hungary can be a convenient base from which to explore the rest of Europe.

Budapest offers much more than a tourist experience

Most people know Budapest for its Parliament building, thermal baths and beautiful architecture. But living here is very different from spending a few days sightseeing. Budapest is a large and lively city with restaurants, cafés, museums, parks, playgrounds, cultural events and activities for families. It also has an extensive public transport system, and it is possible to get around much of the city without relying on a car every day.

One of the things I personally enjoy most is that Budapest can offer a busy city lifestyle without completely disconnecting you from nature. The Danube provides beautiful places to walk and spend time outdoors, while parks, cycling routes, hiking areas and family-friendly destinations are easily accessible.

More space and opportunities for family life

For our family, this was one of the main reasons for moving. After ten years in Malta, we wanted a different lifestyle. Malta has many advantages. English is an official language, it is easy to get around because of its size, and in my experience, administration and healthcare were easier to navigate. However, Malta had also become increasingly crowded and expensive.

Living on a small island means that space is limited. Traffic can be overwhelming, and although there are beautiful coastal areas, the country does not offer the same amount of green space and countryside that we were looking for. Hungary felt different. There are cities, small towns, villages, forests, lakes and large areas of countryside. For us, this also created the possibility of eventually buying a family home with more space-something that had begun to feel impossible in Malta.

Nature and outdoor activities

Hungary might not have a coastline, but that does not mean there is nothing to do outdoors. One of the things I genuinely appreciate about living here is the variety of outdoor activities available throughout the year.

Depending on where you live, you can enjoy:

• walking and hiking
• cycling
• camping
• spending time along the Danube
• visiting lakes and beaches
• exploring small towns and villages
• taking family day trips
• visiting parks and playgrounds
• spending weekends in the countryside

For families who enjoy being outside, Hungary can offer a very different lifestyle from a densely populated city or island.

Good public transport, particularly in Budapest

Another major advantage for me has been transportation. Budapest has an extensive network of metros, trams, buses and suburban railway services, making it possible to move around the city without relying on a car for everything. Coming from Malta, where traffic had become a major part of everyday life, this was something I immediately appreciated. Of course, the experience depends on where you live. Budapest is very different from a smaller Hungarian town or rural area, where having a car may be much more important.

A country with a strong identity and culture

Hungary has a strong cultural identity, traditions, cuisine and language. For some foreigners, this can be one of the most interesting parts of living here. For others, adapting to a culture that can feel very different from their own may take time. Hungarian is also famously difficult for many foreigners, and the language barrier is something you should seriously consider before moving here. While you can manage with English in many parts of Budapest, particularly in international environments, speaking at least some Hungarian can make everyday life significantly easier.

Is Hungary the Right Country for You?

Hungary can be a great place to live, but it will not be the right choice for everyone.

Your experience will depend heavily on several factors, including:

• whether you are an EU/EEA citizen or a third-country national
• your reason for moving
• whether you already have a job or income
• whether you are moving alone or with a family
• whether you plan to live in Budapest or elsewhere
• whether you speak Hungarian
• your expectations about healthcare, administration and public services

For example, an EU citizen moving to Budapest for an international job may have a very different experience from a non-EU spouse moving to Hungary through family reunification. There is no single Hungarian expat experience.

For me, Hungary has been both exciting and frustrating. I genuinely believe that moving here was the right decision for our family, and I would recommend Hungary to many foreigners. But I would also tell anyone considering the move to prepare carefully-especially when it comes to residence documents, healthcare arrangements and understanding what you are legally entitled to before arriving.

Who Can Move to Hungary?

The answer depends largely on your nationality and the reason for your move.

EU and EEA citizens

EU citizens generally have the right to move to and live in another EU country, including Hungary. However, the formalities that apply depend on the length and purpose of the stay. For longer-term residence, registration and documentation requirements may apply. EU citizens can also acquire permanent residence rights after meeting the relevant conditions, including the general five-year rule under EU free-movement law.

Third-country nationals

If you are not an EU or EEA citizen, your move will usually depend on having the correct legal basis for residence.

Depending on your situation, this may involve a residence route connected to:

• employment
• family reunification
• study
• business or other qualifying activity
• a specific remote-working or other residence category
• another legally recognised purpose of residence

The important thing is not to assume that one type of residence permit applies to everyone. Before making plans, identify exactly which residence route applies to you and check the current requirements with the Hungarian immigration authorities.

If you are moving as the spouse or family member of a Hungarian citizen or another qualifying resident, family reunification may be relevant to your circumstances. However, the exact rules, documentation and eligibility requirements depend on the individual case. Depending on the residence status you’re applying for, you may also encounter the Hungarian Cultural Knowledge Exam.

Do Not Underestimate the Paperwork

This is one of the biggest things I personally wish I had understood better before moving. Because I am married to a Hungarian citizen and Hungary presents itself as a family-friendly country, I expected the process of settling here to be relatively quick and straightforward. That was not my experience.

I was asked to provide numerous documents, and some documents originating from Malta required official translation in Hungary. A translation that had already been prepared elsewhere was not necessarily accepted for every purpose, which created additional costs and delays. My own residence process has also taken much longer than I expected. This does not mean that every foreigner will have the same experience. Immigration procedures depend on the residence route, nationality and individual circumstances. But my advice is simple:

Never assume that something will be quick, automatic or straightforward until you have confirmed the exact requirements yourself.

Before moving, make a document folder and check:

• which residence route applies to you
• which documents are required
• whether documents need to be translated
• whether official or certified translations are required
• whether documents need authentication or other formalities
• how long documents remain valid
• whether your family members need separate documentation
• what deadlines apply to your application

And keep copies of everything.

Know your rights, but also verify the details

One of the lessons I have learned from moving abroad is that different people can give you different answers to the same administrative question. Friends may mean well. Online groups can be useful. Even people working in related fields may not know the details of your specific case. Use these sources to understand what questions to ask, but always verify important information with the relevant authority or a qualified professional where necessary.

Where Should You Live in Hungary?

Choosing where to live can dramatically change your experience of Hungary. Budapest offers a completely different lifestyle from a small town or village.

Budapest

Budapest is probably the easiest starting point for many foreigners.

It offers:

• the largest international community
• more English-speaking services
• extensive public transport
• international and bilingual schools
• restaurants and cultural activities
• more job opportunities
• family activities throughout the year

The downside is that Budapest can be more expensive and competitive when it comes to housing.

Other Hungarian cities

Cities such as Szentendre, Debrecen, Szeged, Pécs and Győr can offer a different balance between urban life and affordability. Depending on your work situation, you may find that a smaller city gives you more space, a slower pace of life and potentially lower housing costs.

Smaller towns and the countryside

For families looking for more space and the possibility of buying a house, smaller towns and villages can be particularly attractive. This was one of the things that appealed to us about Hungary. The possibility of eventually owning a home with more space and access to nature felt much more realistic than it had in Malta.

However, before choosing a smaller location, think carefully about:

• employment opportunities
• schools and childcare
• access to healthcare
• public transport
• whether you will need a car
• how comfortable you are living in an environment where English may be less widely spoken

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Hungary?

Hungary can be more affordable than many Western European countries, but that does not automatically mean that life here is cheap.

Your cost of living will depend heavily on:

• where you live
• whether you rent or own
• the size of your family
• your lifestyle
• whether your children attend public, bilingual or private schools
• whether you use public or private healthcare
• your income and work situation

Budapest is generally more expensive than smaller towns, particularly when it comes to rent and property. When calculating your budget, do not only look at rent.

Also include:

• utilities
• groceries
• transportation
• healthcare
• childcare or education
• insurance
• mobile and internet services
• entertainment
• travel
• unexpected administrative or document-related costs

That final category is something I personally underestimated. Official translations, applications and other administrative requirements can add costs that you may not initially include in your moving budget.

Finding a Home in Hungary

Whether you plan to rent or eventually buy property, I would strongly recommend taking your time to understand the local market. If you are moving from abroad, renting first can give you an opportunity to learn more about different neighbourhoods and decide what kind of lifestyle actually suits your family.

Before signing a rental agreement, make sure you understand:

• the length of the contract
• the deposit
• which utility costs you are responsible for
• whether the apartment is officially registered and rented
• what furniture and appliances are included
• the notice period
• whether pets or other conditions are restricted

If you eventually plan to buy property, the process can involve additional legal and administrative considerations, particularly for foreign buyers.

Healthcare in Hungary: Check Your Coverage Before You Need It

This is one area where I would strongly recommend doing your research before moving. Do not assume that having a residence document automatically means you have full access to Hungary’s public healthcare system.

Eligibility for publicly funded healthcare can depend on your insurance status, employment, residence situation and other legal circumstances. A TAJ number is used as an identifier in the Hungarian health and social insurance system, but having or applying for a TAJ number is not, by itself, the same as having entitlement to every publicly funded healthcare service. This was one of the most difficult parts of my own experience.

When I stopped working for a period and did not have the appropriate European health coverage available, I had to pay privately for healthcare. I had also paid for private insurance, but the policy did not cover the pregnancy costs in my particular situation because of the policy’s terms and waiting conditions. It was a stressful lesson to learn while already pregnant.

If you are moving to Hungary, check your healthcare situation before you arrive, particularly if:

• you are pregnant
• you have children
• you have ongoing medical needs
• you are moving from another EU or EEA country
• you are working remotely for a foreign employer
• you are self-employed
• you will not initially be employed in Hungary

Depending on your circumstances, you may have rights connected to another country’s social security system, European health coverage or other coordination arrangements. These situations can be complicated, so verify your exact position with the relevant insurer and Hungarian authorities.

Moving to Hungary With Children

Moving abroad with children adds another layer to the experience. Children have to adapt not only to a new home but often to a new language, school environment and social circle. When we moved to Hungary, my children did not speak Hungarian. English was and still is our main language at home. The first year was challenging in different ways for both of them.

My daughter was only three when she started kindergarten, and initially nobody in her class spoke English. This made bonding with other children more difficult at first. My son had a somewhat different experience because he was able to connect with children who already spoke English. That made his transition easier socially, but it also meant that he had less immediate pressure to communicate in Hungarian.

Over time, my younger daughter had a breakthrough with the language and now speaks Hungarian very well. My son is starting first grade in a bilingual English-Hungarian school, and his language journey has developed differently. The experience taught me something important: children do not all adapt to a new language in the same way. Their age, personality, environment and the people they spend time with can all influence the process.

My advice for parents moving to Hungary

Do not panic if your child does not immediately start speaking Hungarian. Give them time. Encourage exposure to the language, but also pay attention to whether they are actually able to form friendships and participate in their environment. Supportive teachers can make a huge difference, and I was fortunate that my children’s kindergarten teachers were helpful during the transition.

Do You Need to Speak Hungarian?

Technically, no-you can survive in Hungary without speaking fluent Hungarian. But surviving and truly feeling integrated are not necessarily the same thing. In Budapest, you can often manage with English in restaurants, shops, international workplaces and many other everyday situations. However, Hungarian is still the main language of the country.

You may encounter difficulties with:

• official documents
• school communication
• government offices
• healthcare
• signs and notices
• conversations with older generations
• family gatherings
• social events

For me, the language barrier has not always stopped me from finding my way around, but it has sometimes put me in a passive position. At first, I depended heavily on my husband to understand documents, communicate with people and deal with things that I could not fully understand myself. Eventually, I realised that if I wanted to build a life here, I had to change that.

I had to become more active, try harder, stop being afraid of making mistakes and avoid depending entirely on someone else. I am now learning Hungarian every day. I have taken courses, studied Hungarian culture and history as part of my own residence process, and I continue learning through books and apps such as Duolingo. The truth is that Hungarian is difficult. It takes time. But even learning small amounts can make a difference.

Language is also about belonging

The hardest part is not always ordering food or buying something in a shop. Sometimes, it is sitting with family or friends and not understanding the joke. It is hearing everyone laugh and realising that you did not understand the conversation well enough to participate. That can make you feel excluded even when nobody is intentionally excluding you.

For me, learning Hungarian is therefore not only about administration or surviving everyday life. It is also about becoming more independent and feeling more connected to the people and country around me.

Future internal link: Learning Hungarian as a Foreigner

Working and Managing Your Income

Before moving, make sure you understand how your work situation will fit with your residence and tax obligations.

You may be:

• employed by a Hungarian company
• employed by a foreign company
• working remotely
• self-employed
• starting a business
• moving without employment and relying on savings or family support

These situations can have different legal, tax and social security consequences. My own situation has been unusual because I initially continued working remotely through my existing work arrangements connected to Malta while settling into life in Hungary. Do not assume that being able to work remotely automatically answers questions about tax residence, social security or your right to work in Hungary. These are issues worth clarifying before making the move.

Opening a Bank Account and Managing Everyday Finances

Depending on your circumstances, opening a Hungarian bank account may require identification and other supporting documents.

Before arriving, consider how you will manage:

• rent payments
• everyday expenses
• receiving your salary or other income
• currency exchange
• taxes and contributions
• international transfers

Hungary uses the Hungarian forint rather than the euro, which is another adjustment for people moving from eurozone countries.

Getting Around Hungary

One of the things I genuinely appreciate about Hungary is how easy it can be to explore. Budapest has excellent public transport, and travelling around the country can open up a completely different side of Hungary.

You can visit:

• small towns
• historic cities
• countryside
• lakes
• hiking areas
• family attractions
• camping destinations

If you live outside Budapest, however, your experience may be very different. In some locations, a car may be far more practical or even necessary.

Grocery Shopping and Everyday Life

Everyday life is where you start to notice the smaller cultural differences. Hungary has major international and local supermarket chains, markets and smaller shops. Over time, you will also begin to discover Hungarian foods and products that may become part of your regular routine. One thing I personally appreciate is the quality of many fruits and vegetables and the food culture in general. Exploring local markets and Hungarian food can also be one of the most enjoyable ways to feel more connected to the country.

Finding Friends and Building a Community

Moving to another country can be lonely, even when you are happy with your decision. This is something I have experienced myself. Because I worked from home, I did not have the natural social environment that comes with going to an office every day. At the same time, not speaking Hungarian fluently made it harder to connect naturally in some situations. I have also spent time depending on my husband’s existing family and connections while still trying to find a community of my own.

The truth is that I have not completely found my community yet. But I also understand that building a new life takes time. My advice is not to wait until your Hungarian is perfect before trying to connect with people. Go to activities. Join groups. Speak when you can. Make mistakes. You may feel uncomfortable at first, but staying completely inside your existing family or English-speaking bubble can also make integration more difficult.

The Things I Wish I Had Known Before Moving to Hungary

If I could go back and give myself advice before the move, these would be some of the most important things I would say.

Do not underestimate how long documents can take

I expected that being married to a Hungarian citizen would make everything relatively simple. It did not. Prepare for waiting, additional documents and possible unexpected requirements.

Check translation requirements before paying for translations

Some official processes may require specific forms of translation or authentication. Do not assume that a translation prepared in another country will automatically be accepted for every Hungarian administrative procedure. Ask first.

Understand your healthcare coverage before you need medical care

This is particularly important if you are pregnant, have children or have ongoing health needs. Do not simply assume that your residence status, private insurance or a future TAJ card application automatically gives you the coverage you expect. Check exactly what you are entitled to and what your insurance covers.

Learn Hungarian, even if you start slowly

You do not need to become fluent before moving. But learning the basics can make you more independent and confident. More importantly, do not let fear of making mistakes stop you from trying.

You can survive without Hungarian, but belonging may take longer

This is one of the biggest differences. You may be able to order food, shop and navigate Budapest with English. But deeper relationships, family conversations and feeling completely involved can be more difficult when you do not understand the language.

Your children may adapt differently

Do not compare one child’s progress with another’s. Their environment, age, friendships and personality all matter.

You will need to build your own life

Having a Hungarian spouse or family connections can make some things easier. But eventually, you also need your own confidence, relationships and independence. This is something I am still learning.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Hungary

My Five Most Important Tips Before Moving to Hungary

If a friend told me they were moving to Hungary next month, this is what I would tell them.

1. Learn some Hungarian

You do not need to wait until you are fluent. Start with basic words, phrases and everyday communication. The earlier you start, the more independent you will feel.

2. Research your documents before you move

Find out exactly which residence route applies to you.

Understand what documents are required, whether they need translation and how long they are valid.

Do not assume that your situation will be handled automatically.

3. Know your rights and your responsibilities

Whether it involves residence, healthcare, work, taxes or social security, understand your individual situation before relying on information from friends or social media groups.

4. Check your healthcare situation carefully

Know what coverage you have, what it includes and what documents you may need. This is particularly important if you have children, are pregnant or need regular medical care.

5. Do not be afraid to communicate

You will make mistakes. You will misunderstand things. You may sometimes feel embarrassed because you do not know the language well enough. Try anyway. The more you communicate and participate, the less passive you will feel in your new life.

Would I Recommend Moving to Hungary?

Yes, I would. Despite the difficulties I have personally experienced with administration, documents and healthcare, I believe moving to Hungary was the right decision for my family. I love the life we are building here. I love Budapest, the food, the public transport, the parks, the outdoor activities and the opportunities to explore the country. I love that we have more access to nature and that owning a family home with space feels like a more realistic dream.

I also feel that Hungary offers a good environment for family life. At the same time, I would not tell anyone that moving here is automatically easy. If you are a foreigner, especially a third-country national, take the legal and administrative side seriously. Research your options. Prepare your documents carefully. Understand your healthcare situation. And give yourself time to adapt.

Moving abroad is not only about changing your address. It is about learning how to live somewhere new. You may initially feel confused, dependent on others or even lonely. You may love the country and still struggle with parts of your new life. Both things can be true at the same time.

For me, Hungary is still a journey. I am still learning the language. I am still finding my own community. I am still learning how to navigate the systems around me. But I am also slowly building a life here. And if you are thinking about doing the same, I hope this guide helps you arrive a little better prepared than I was.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Hungary

Is Hungary a good country for foreigners?

Hungary can be a good choice for foreigners, particularly those looking for a central European location, city life combined with access to nature, family activities and a strong cultural identity. However, the experience depends heavily on your nationality, work situation, location and ability to adapt to the language and administrative system.

Can you live in Hungary without speaking Hungarian?

Yes, particularly in Budapest and international environments. However, speaking Hungarian can make administration, healthcare, school communication and social integration significantly easier.

Is Hungary good for families?

Hungary can offer many advantages for families, including parks, playgrounds, outdoor activities, public transport and access to countryside destinations. The best location for your family will depend on your work, budget and education preferences.

Is Budapest a good place to live as a foreigner?

Budapest can be a good starting point for foreigners because it has an international community, more English-speaking services, extensive public transport and a wide range of activities. However, housing can be more expensive than in other parts of Hungary.

What should I do before moving to Hungary?

Before moving, identify the correct residence route for your circumstances, prepare the required documents, check translation and authentication requirements, understand your healthcare coverage, research the cost of living and start learning basic Hungarian.

Is moving to Hungary easy?

The practical experience varies significantly. EU citizens and third-country nationals may face different procedures, and your residence purpose will affect the documentation required. The lifestyle transition can also take time, particularly if you do not speak Hungarian or are moving with children.