Travel should be fun, filled with new adventures, moments of relaxation, and most importantly, it should be a smooth and hassle-free experience! To ensure the latter, we always suggest keeping yourself updated with all the latest travel updates, restrictions, and requirements about the new country you’re visiting. And if you’re planning to visit Hungary in 2025, here’s everything you need to know about the new travel regulations for this European country.
New Travel Regulations & Entry Updates For Hungary
As part of the Schengen Zone, Hungary allows travellers from countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other EU member states to travel to Hungary visa-free. Their stay is valid for up to ninety days within a one-hundred-eighty-day window. People can travel for tourism purposes, business trips, family visits, and even brief educational programs, as part of this exemption. However, Hungary requires your passport to meet several essential conditions. If the passport doesn’t meet these conditions, it is best to renew it in advance to avoid any delays or issues at the border.
1. Your passport should be issued within the last ten years. Furthermore, it shall remain valid for at least three months after your intended departure from the Schengen Zone.
2. The passport must not be reported stolen.
3. Also, Border officers in Hungary may ask for documentation like proof of return or onward travel. They can also ask for confirmation of accommodation, like a hotel booking, and evidence of adequate financial resources during your stay.
In case your passport does not fall under the visa-free category, for citizens from India, Bangladesh, Russia, and China, then you will have to get a Schengen visa before your arrival. It allows access to Hungary and other Schengen countries for short stays of up to ninety days within any 180-day period. In case you’re planning to remain in Hungary for longer durations, you must secure a long-term visa or residence permit ahead of your trip.
Also Read: Pune, Ahmedabad & Chandigarh Note 17.8% Jump In Visa Application To Europe This Summer
All You Need To Know Before Planning Your Travel
Hungary is coming up with new regulatory changes as well. According to Travel and Tour World, by 2026, the European Union will roll out the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Once implemented, ETIAS will mandate citizens from visa-exempt countries to obtain an online authorisation before travelling to Hungary or any other Schengen country. With this, the authorities aim to strengthen border security and improve the screening of travellers.
Before ETIAS, the authorities will also roll out the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025. This electronic system will log the entry and exit records of non-EU visitors across Schengen countries. This new system will replace manual passport stamping and improve the monitoring of overstays.
Here are a few more things to be careful about while planning your Hungary trip –
1. Travellers are prohibited from bringing meat, dairy, or similar products from non-EU countries. However, certain medical needs or baby food can be exempted.
2. In case you’re carrying cash worth €10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies), you will need to fill in a declaration form at the border.
3. People travelling with pets are asked to follow stringent health regulations.
4. As of 2025, Hungary does not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination, testing, or quarantine upon entry. However, it is advised to carry travel insurance, which includes health coverage for their stay.
We hope this information will help you plan a better trip to Hungary in 2025.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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