All about becoming a Hungarian citizen

For many Americans, retirement in Europe sounds like the ultimate plan: slower mornings, walkable cities, weekend trips across the continent, and a completely different pace of life. And Hungary, with Budapest at its center and quieter towns and countryside within reach of the capital, can easily make that shortlist. But can you actually retire in Hungary? Yes – but there’s a catch.

The 1956 Revolution of Hungary was a nationwide uprising against Soviet rule. It ended in bloodshed and years of retribution, and 200,000 people fled Hungary in its wake. Now October 23, the first day of the revolution, is a national holiday, which can be especially important to the descendants of those who left Hungary then.

Budapest is a capital city on the border of Western and Eastern Europe. As a result, it has an excellent infrastructure with good public safety, great public transit, and fast internet connection – while living costs are much lower than in Western Europe or the U.S. Read on to find out just how affordable Budapest is.

While you are exploring your Hungarian roots, it might be nice to consider what would it be like to live in the hometown of your ancestors. Was it a big city or a more rural area? And what are your own preferences? Do you like the energy and the convenience of city life, or do you prefer the slower pace and the close-knit communities of smaller towns and villages? Take a tour with us!

If you are wondering whether you should apply for Hungarian citizenship by descent, the first question to ask is this: Who is your ancestor based on who you can submit an application? This will be followed by: Can you prove your connection to them? Read our best practices to get a better idea of what you will need to do.