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Visiting Hungary

Last verified: 2 min read

Visa rules, ETIAS info, and travel tips for Hungary

Quick Facts

Hungary is a Schengen Area member. Your entry requirements — ETIAS, Schengen Visa, or visa-free — depend on your passport.

Capital Budapest
Currency HUF
Schengen Yes
Languages Hungarian

Discover Hungary

Hungary's capital, Budapest, is often called the "Pearl of the Danube" and is famous for its grand thermal bath complexes, including the ornate Szechenyi and Gellert baths. The city's unique ruin bars -- built in abandoned buildings of the old Jewish Quarter -- have become a nightlife phenomenon, and the Hungarian Parliament Building on the Danube is one of Europe's most photographed landmarks.

Hungary is one of Central Europe's most affordable destinations, offering excellent value for food, accommodation, and culture. Note that Hungary uses the Hungarian forint (HUF), not the Euro, so you will need to exchange currency. Beyond Budapest, the wine region of Eger and the shores of Lake Balaton are well worth exploring.

Capital Budapest
Currency HUF
Population 9.6 million
Languages Hungarian

Who Needs a Visa for Hungary

  • EU/EEA citizens Enter freely using your passport or national ID card. No additional authorization required.
  • Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, and others) currency}).
  • Visa-required nationals currency}). Apply at embassy of your main destination.

Paying & Tipping in Hungary

Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Despite EU membership, Hungary has no firm timeline for Euro adoption. ATMs are widespread in Budapest and larger cities. Card payments are generally accepted, but carry some Forint for markets, small cafés, and public transport. Avoid changing money at airport kiosks — city-center exchange offices offer better rates.

Recommended

Stay Connected in Hungary

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  • Works across all Schengen countries
  • No physical SIM card needed
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Useful Resources for Hungary

ETIAS Guide

Europe's upcoming entry system

Schengen Visa

Apply for a Schengen Visa

90/180 Calculator

Calculate your remaining days

Travel Insurance

Mandatory for Schengen Visa

Explore Cities in Hungary

Budapest Debrecen Eger Pécs

Frequently Asked Questions about Hungary

Do I need ETIAS to visit Hungary?
If you're from an ETIAS-eligible country (like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.), you will need ETIAS to visit Hungary starting Q4 2026. ETIAS costs €20 and is valid for 3 years.
Is Hungary part of the Schengen Area?
Yes. Hungary has been a Schengen Area member since 2007.
How long can I stay in Hungary without a visa?
Visitors from visa-exempt countries can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Hungary and the entire Schengen Area combined.
Do I need a visa for Hungary?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens from 59 countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) don't need a visa for short stays. Others need a Schengen visa.
What currency does Hungary use?
Hungary uses the Hungarian forint (HUF). While Hungary is an EU member, it has not yet adopted the Euro.

Prepare for Your Trip to Hungary

Valid passport (check requirements for your nationality)
Visa or ETIAS (depends on your nationality)
Travel insurance Get covered
eSIM for mobile data in Europe Get Saily
VPN for public WiFi security Get NordVPN

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Austria Germany Slovakia

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