Hungary Dual Citizenship: The Full 2025 Guide

Hungary offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and strategic European location, making it a dream destination for many. Beyond tourism, many are attracted to the idea of becoming a Hungarian citizen.  

Hungary dual citizenship allows individuals to fully embrace life in Hungary while maintaining citizenship in another country. 

In this article, we’ll explore Hungary’s dual citizenship rules, pathways, requirements, tax considerations, and specific guidance for citizens of the US, UK, and Australia. 

Yes, Hungary allows dual and multiple citizenships. Hungarian citizenship law permits individuals to hold Hungarian citizenship alongside other nationalities without requiring them to give up their existing citizenship. 

This is particularly beneficial for Hungarians living abroad or non-Hungarians with strong ties to Hungary through ancestry, residence, or investment. 

However, a law passed in 2025 introduces the possibility of suspending or revoking citizenship for dual nationals whose activities threaten national sovereignty, public order, or security. This highlights the importance of understanding legal obligations before acquiring Hungarian citizenship. 

Working with a Hungary immigration lawyer is highly beneficial to ensure you meet all the requirements before applying.  

1. Freedom of movement across Europe: As a Hungarian citizen, you can live, work, and study freely in any European Union or European Free Trade Association country without needing additional permits. 

2. Visa-free travel worldwide: A Hungarian passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. Hungary passport visa free countries include the Schengen Area, the United States, and Canada.  

3. Strong passport: The GCS Global Passport Index 2025 ranks the Hungarian passport 33rd. It ranks 17^th for enhanced mobility and 32^nd on the Investment Index.  

4. Access to healthcare and social security: You can benefit from Hungary’s healthcare system and, with the European Health Insurance Card, receive medical treatment across Europe. Those with Hungarian citizenship are also eligible for social security benefits. 

5. Education advantages: Citizens have access to Hungarian universities, often with cheaper tuition, and priority admission to other European universities compared to non-EU applicants. There are also a range of fantastic international schools in Hungary.  

6. Economic and investment opportunities: Hungary offers one of Europe’s lowest personal income tax rates at 15%, making it attractive for entrepreneurs and investors. The Hungary Golden Visa is the ideal option for investors looking to obtain dual citizenship.  

7. Family and dual citizenship benefits: Hungarian citizenship allows family reunification for spouses, children, and parents through a simplified process. Dual citizenship is permitted, so you can retain your original nationality. 

US citizens can obtain Hungarian dual citizenship without renouncing their US nationality as both Hungary and the US permit dual citizenship.  

However, both nationalities are required to obey the laws of both countries. It’s also important to note that while in Hungary, US protections may not fully apply when you are documented as a Hungarian citizen. 

Additionally, US citizens are subject to taxation on worldwide income, which may overlap with Hungarian tax obligations. 

Australia allows dual citizenship, so Australians can retain their nationality while obtaining Hungary citizenship. 

Still, dual citizens must follow Hungarian law while in Hungary, and Australian protections may be limited during such periods. 

UK citizens can obtain dual citizenship with Hungary without giving up their British passport, as both countries allow dual nationality.  

The most straightforward route is through Hungarian ancestry, where applicants can prove their lineage to a Hungarian citizen and demonstrate a basic understanding of the Hungarian language, though no formal test is required by the Hungarian government.  

For dual citizens in Hungary, tax obligations depend on tax residency rather than Hungarian nationality. You are generally considered a Hungarian tax resident if you spend 183 days or more in Hungary, have permanent residence, or if Hungary is the center of your personal and economic interests.  

Residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents pay tax only on income sourced in Hungary. 

Hungary has double taxation treaties with around 80 countries to prevent being taxed twice, though the treaty with the US ended on January 1, 2024. US-Hungary dual citizens may face some double taxation but can usually claim foreign tax credits. 

Hungary taxes include a flat personal income tax rate of 15%, with an additional 18.5% social security contribution on employment income.