Hungary Schengen visa applications are open to visitors who wish to visit the country for short stays. There are visa requirements the applicant must meet before they can qualify for it. Below, we review the process and other critical details about the Schengen visa.
Hungary At A Glance
Hungary is a landlocked European country in Central Europe with a land area of 93,030 km2. The country has a population of nearly 10 million inhabitants from records obtained from the last census of 2022. Hungary has a rich history and was one of the sovereign States in Europe where the Habsburg rules reigned supreme. The official language of Hungary is Hungarian, a branch of the Uralic language.
In times past, different tribes dominated the area across centuries, such as the West Slavs, Avars, Hubs, and Celts. These other tribes left an indelible mark in the region, which is evident to this day. Hungary is also home to thermal waters found in large parts of the country, which has made it a famous destination for medical tourists coming for warm baths. In fact, it is Europe's number one medical tourist country.
Hungary became a Schengen country in 2007 after signing the Schengen treaty. The country is also a member of the European Union and several other international organizations like the United Nations World Trade Organization, among others.
By signing the Schengen treaty Hungary adopted the borderless policies of Schengen states, so therefore, holders of Schengen visas issued by Hungary and other Schengen countries are recognized by Hungarian immigration and border patrol agents.
How Long Is This Visa Valid For?
The Schengen visa issued by all countries in the zone are valid for 180 days, and visitors are allowed to stay for up to 90 days per visit. However, there are long-term Schengen visas that last for much longer, but they are not for short visits.
Furthermore, a Schengen visa may be issued as a single or multiple-entry visa. Single-entry visas can only be used once and cannot be reused a second time.
Multiple entry visas, on the other hand, can be used several times for as long as it remains valid.
Who Needs A Visa To Schengen In Hungary?
Anyone not from a Schengen or visa-free country will need a visa to enter Hungary. There are 27 Schengen countries in the zone, and their citizens can freely move from one country to the other in the region without a visa. Also, citizens of visa-free countries ( United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) don't need a visa to enter Hungary or any other Schengen country.
So if you are not from a Schengen or visa-free country, it is mandatory to apply for a visa before you board a flight for Hungary.
Documents For Hungary Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa requires the following documents to process your application.
Application Form: You need to complete a visa application form. Fill out the application form correctly and ensure that your details are valid. Also, ensure that no section is left unfilled. The form should also be signed.
Two Passports: Two identical passport photographs that meet the requirements for Schengen visas. Avoid wearing glasses or any head covering that will distort your image. The photos must not be older than six months and must be printed on a white background.
Passport: A valid passport is required for this application. Your passport must be valid for at least three months as of the date of departure. Passports must not be older than ten years and have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Previous Visa: If you have been issued a visa in the past, include it in your documentation. Including previous visas in your application will boost your chances of getting the Schengen visa.
Travel Itinerary: A round-trip flight Itinerary will be required of you. The copy should contain the arrival and departure date, including the places you intend to visit.
Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance is required for all visitors coming to the Schengen area. The minimum insurance coverage is €30,000 to cover any medical bills incurred during their stay in the country.
Cover Letter: A cover letter explaining the purpose of the trip and other key information.
Proof of funds: Proof of funds to prove that the visitor has what it takes to cover their expenses
Civil Status: Married couples traveling together must prove their status with a marriage certificate.
How Long Does It Take To Process A Schengen Visa?
It takes about 15 calendar days from the day you submit the application form and your documents to get the visa. In some cases, the application may take up to 45 days or more, mainly if you apply to a visa application center. To be on the safe side, consider applying for the Hungary Schengen visa at least six weeks before the trip date.