What Is It Like To Live In Hungary As A Foreigner?
Khola Afzal
15 min read
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If you are planning to move abroad, you might wonder what is it like to live in Hungary as a foreigner. But don’t worry because we are here to provide you a glance at life in Hungary as a foreigner.
Hungary is becoming a popular destination for migration. The country has a continental climate with hot summers and chilly winters. The summers in Hungary are not scorching hot; the average temperature is around 83-85F. Winters can be very chilly. Spring and Fall are the ideal seasons in Hungary.
The country offers a rich culture, fantastic food, and breathtaking scenery. The Christmas markets will leave you in awe and comfort your soul, keeping you warm inside. It offers plenty of economic opportunities and a slow pace, attracting people planning to move abroad.
Live in Hungary as a Foreigner
Hungary is garnering the attention of people from around the world. While most people are entering the country for work purposes, there are many people who are living their student life there. The reasons behind their interest in the country is:
- Affordable living options
- Access to Schengen Areas
Legal Requirements to Live in Hungary
If you are a citizen of the Schengen zone, you can stay in Hungary for up to 90 days. Staying for these first 90 days will not require any legal requirements. After these days have passed, you will need to register at the embassy, which only takes a couple of hours.
If you work for a multinational company, your employer can help you through the process of visa processing. For the visa application, you will need:
- A passport ID
- Tenancy contract
- Bank statement
If you are a third-country national, you must follow a thorough visa filing and application process when you plan to visit Hungary.
Best Cities to Live in Hungary as a Foreigner
Hungary is filled with foreigners but there are a few cities where you get to find them in abundance. Budapest is undoubtedly one of the primary choices among the internationals when it comes to settling. The city is the capital of the country and one of the most enjoyable places to live in Hungary.
The city is traditional and modern, offering several cultural activities for foreigners. The culinary dishes and flavours of the food of Hungary are also quite famous. The city has a well-developed infrastructure with several means of transportation.
Debrecen, located east of the city, is Hungary's second-largest city. It is popular among foreigners and is home to the University of Debrecen, the oldest continuously operating educational institution in Hungary. It is a lively place to live, with immense cultural diversity and breathtaking architecture.
With around 220,000 inhabitants, Debrecen is the educational and economic centre of Eastern Hungary. Several festivals, concerts, and sports events occur throughout the year. Debrecen's cultural diversity and overall environment make it an ideal place to live, especialIfners.
Other than this if you are lively and wish to have a slow, peaceful life, Eger is an available option for you. On the other hand, if you want more sunlight in winter, you should consider settling in Szeged. (the city of Sun).
Anxious About the Cost of Living in Hungary as a Foreigner?
Living expenses should be considered when discussing what is it like to live in Hungary as a foreigner. Hungary is comparatively cheap compared with other European countries.
The country is cheap in terms of real estate and day-to-day expenses. Outings and recreational activities in Hungary are also easily accessible and at pocket-friendly prices.
Healthcare and Employment
Healthcare system is another concern regarding what is it like to live in Hungary as a foreigner. Hungary has a public health insurance system. The plan covers the health expenses of internationals, including basic medical consultations and hospitalisation. The Hungarian public healthcare system is evolving and striving to improve for residents.
The country is home to several multinational companies, which, therefore, provides international students with several career paths. The students can apply for jobs locally and also start their businesses. It attracts entrepreneurs who want to bring innovation and need resources to start.
Hungary has an easy procedure for creating a company and a low corporate tax rate. Therefore, the country especially enchants international students to begin their lives there.
Do Foreigners Have to Pay Taxes in Hungary?
As a foreign national in Hungary, you must pay certain taxes. The personal income tax is the leading tax in Hungary. Besides this, expats are also liable for local taxes, property taxes, and vehicle taxes.
The tax year in Hungary is the calendar year. The government taxes the residents of Hungary on both their domestic and international incomes. Unlike the residents of Hungary, the government taxes non-residents of Hungary only on their domestic income.
The foreigners working in Hungary have to register with the tax authority. After they register, the system allocates them a card with an identification number. Against this number, they have to pay taxes and file a tax return.
Are You Nervous About Living in Hungary as a Foreigner?
Another concern related to what is it like to live in Hungary as a foreigner is to know about the citizens. People know Hungarians for their polite and welcoming nature. They enjoy celebrations and family gatherings; thus, drinking, dancing, and spending quality time doing what they do.
Although people know Hungarians for their idea of spreading joy, like other human beings they can also be short-tempered and occasionally experience mood swings. For anyone moving, it is essential to understand the common traits of Hungarians so they know what to expect from them.
While several courses are fully taught in the English language for students you might experience a language barrier. To overcome this, University of Debrecen offers Hungarian language courses free of cost. Other than this, you can always get help from the translator on your phone. Even knowing a few common Hungarian phrases will help you in communication and get your message passed on.
Conclusion
By this point all the basic concerns related to what is it like to live in Hungary as a Foreigner? might be answered. Summing up, living in Hungary as a foreigner offers a unique blend of rich culture, affordable living, and numerous opportunities. The country's favourable climate, especially in spring and Fall, along with its vibrant cities, make it an appealing destination.
While legal requirements vary depending on your nationality, Hungary's stable economy and welcoming nature ease the transition. The cost of living is relatively low, and the healthcare system is accessible to internationals.
The Hungarian people are known for politeness and hospitality despite potential language barriers. Whether you are seeking educational opportunities, starting a business, or simply looking for a slower pace, Hungary provides a promising environment for a fulfilling life abroad.