The White Card Program: In-Depth
The Legal Framework of Modern Employment in Hungary
The White Card is a special residence permit type introduced in 2022, representing Hungary's response to global labor market changes. The program's legal objective is to provide legal residence status to third-country nationals who perform their work without geographical constraints, using advanced digital technological tools.
Nature of the Legal Relationship This permit differs fundamentally from traditional work permits. The White Card holder cannot enter the Hungarian labor market. This means they cannot establish an employment relationship with a company based in Hungary and cannot perform profit-generating activities for Hungarian clients. The card exclusively entitles the holder to live in Hungary while their economic activity and source of income remain entirely abroad.
The "Advanced Digital Technology" Requirement Technology is the key element of the legal definition. The applicant must credibly prove that due to the nature of their work, it can be performed from anywhere, requiring only an internet connection and IT tools (laptop, software, online platforms). Therefore, this permit is not applicable to "remote jobs" that do not require physical presence but require other physical assets (e.g., inventory management).
Income Stability One of the strictest conditions of the program is the proof of financial independence. The authority expects a regular, verifiable net monthly income of at least EUR 2000, which must be continuous throughout the entire duration of residence and during the 6 months preceding the application submission.
Key Figures of the White Card
min. 2000 EUR / month
Verified net monthly income in the last 6 months, which is also secured for the future.
1. Entry Threshold
Remote Work Only.
Work may only be performed for a company outside Hungary or for one's own foreign business.
2. Activity
1 + 1 Year
The permit is valid for a maximum of 1 year, which may be extended once by an additional year.
3. Validity Period
Individual Applicant
This type does not ensure automatic family reunification. Every family member must verify their own legal title.
4. Family Status
Who is the White Card Ideal For?
The White Card was established specifically for third-country nationals who perform their activities remotely using advanced digital tools for a company located outside Hungary or for their own foreign business.
This solution is the perfect choice if you are an IT professional, consultant, or creative freelancer wishing to enjoy the safety of the European Union and Budapest’s high standard of living without giving up your global career.
The Role of First Immigration: While it sounds simple, applying for the White Card is subject to strict income verification and insurance conditions. Our experts help substantiate the nature of your remote work to the authorities, compile the appropriate banking and employer documentation, and ensure your application meets regulatory expectations on the first attempt.
Key Benefits
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No Local Employer: You do not need to search for a Hungarian company. You continue working for your existing, familiar foreign partner.
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European Lifestyle: You become entitled to reside habitually in Hungary and travel freely within the Schengen Area (for tourism purposes).
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Cost Efficiency: Enjoy the advantage of "geo-arbitrage": earn a Western salary while enjoying the more favorable cost of living in Hungary.
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Tax Benefits: Hungary’s favorable tax environment (e.g., Personal Income Tax) can be attractive for those with foreign income (our tax expert will inform you about the details).
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Simplified Submission: There is no need for a labor market test or complex corporate legal procedures.
How We Help You Move
Verification of the 2000 Euro Rule
The most important entry threshold is income. We verify whether a monthly income of at least EUR 2000 (or equivalent currency) has verifiably arrived in the last 6 months, and whether this is secured for the future.
Proving "Digital Nomad" Status
We help obtain and (if necessary) translate the foreign employer's certificate, which clearly states that your work can be performed remotely, including from Hungary. This is the cornerstone of the application.
Creating the Mandatory Background
"Comprehensive" health insurance is required for the White Card; travel insurance is not enough. Through our partner network, we help you take out the appropriate package and arrange proof of accommodation.
Personal Submission with Expert Background
We prepare you for the Consulate or VFS interview. Since your personal profile and work are the essence here, it is important that you know exactly how to present your activity to the authority.
1+1 Year Planning
In case of a successful decision, we assist in collecting the card. Important to know: the White Card is valid for 1 year, which can be extended once by another year. We monitor the deadlines for you.
Questions about the White Card
Q1: Can I work for Hungarian companies with the White Card? No. This is the most important rule. The White Card explicitly prohibits working for a Hungarian employer or owning a share in a Hungarian profit-oriented enterprise. You may exclusively invoice foreign clients or be an employee of a foreign company.
Q2: Can I bring my family (spouse, children)? Unlike other permit types, the White Card does not provide automatic family reunification rights. Family members must apply for a permit under their own title (e.g., their own White Card if they are also nomads, or other purpose of residence). If family reunification is a priority, we recommend examining our Guest Investor or Corporate programs.
Q3: How much income do I need to prove? The regulation mandates a minimum regular monthly net income of EUR 2000. This must be substantiated retrospectively for the last 6 months with bank statements and an employer's certificate.
Q4: How long can I stay? The White Card is issued for a maximum of 1 year, which can be extended once by an additional 1 year. Thus, you may reside in Hungary for a maximum total of 2 years with this type. Subsequently, you must switch to another type of permit if you wish to remain.
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