20 Million Tourists Flock to Hungary! Why is this European "Undervalued Market" Attracting Global Investors?

Walking down Váci Street in Budapest, you will notice a fascinating phenomenon: one in every three tourists is a foreigner. In the cafes, conversations in English, German, and Chinese overlap; along the banks of the Danube, the sound of selfie sticks and camera shutters is constant.

This is no accident. In 2025, Hungary’s tourism industry reached a historic milestone: the total number of visitors nationwide exceeded 20 million for the first time. The growth rate of international tourists reached 12%, significantly outperforming neighboring countries like Austria and the Czech Republic.

I. Record-Breaking Tourism Data Reflects National Strength

Behind these figures lies more than just the success of a single industry; it is a concentrated reflection of Hungary’s infrastructure, international connectivity, and economic vitality:

• Consolidation of International Transport Hub Status: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport handled a record-breaking 19 million passengers annually.

• Diversified Tourism Resources: From the historic cultural capital of Budapest to thermal spa retreats like Siófok and Hévíz, and the natural beauty of Lake Balaton, Hungary meets every travel demand.

• Significant Economic Pillar: Tourism contributes over 14% to the GDP. Through the "Kisfaludy Program," the government has invested 405 billion HUF to support the industry, aiming to increase its GDP contribution to 16% by 2030.

II. Beyond Tourism: Hungary’s Advantages as a High-Quality Lifestyle Destination

The tourism boom has showcased Hungary to the world as a unique, cost-effective European destination for living:

Perfect Balance of Quality and Affordability

• Access to EU-standard healthcare and education, with a cost of living 30%-40% lower than in Western Europe.

• Budapest is consistently ranked among Europe’s most livable cities, where historical heritage blends seamlessly with modern energy.

• Comprehensive public services and a safe community environment.

Strategic Location and Business Opportunities

• Located in the heart of Europe, serving as a vital transport hub connecting East and West.

• Offers one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU (9%), with a continuously optimizing business environment.

• The government has launched large-scale economic stimulus plans, including tax cuts, wage increases, and subsidies.

III. Hungarian Fund Investment Residency: A Golden Gateway to Europe

Driven by Hungary’s strong momentum, the Fund Investment Residency Program has become a win-win choice for global investors. The experience of Mr. Li from Beijing is a vivid example.

Mr. Li’s European Dream 

Mr. Li (pseudonym), an executive at a Beijing tech firm, began planning an overseas identity for his family in late 2024. "We looked at Greece, Portugal, and Spain, but ultimately chose Hungary," he said. "There are three main reasons: the low investment threshold (€250,000), the long residency period (10 years), and the high flexibility, as funds can be withdrawn after five years."

Following advice from consultants at Globevisa, Mr. Li chose to invest in a real estate fund recognized by the Hungarian government. "The professionalism of the Globevisa team gave me great peace of mind," said Mr. Li. "From fund selection to document preparation and application submission, every step was handled by specialists. Because they have direct channels with government-approved funds, the audit process was very smooth."

In March 2025, Mr. Li submitted his application; by May, his family received their 10-year Hungarian residency cards. "The whole process took only two months—much faster than I expected," Mr. Li noted. "Now my children are enrolled in an international school in Budapest, and we spend half the year living in Europe. We are very satisfied."

IV. Now is the Strategic Window to Enter Hungary

A combination of factors makes investing in Hungary through the residency program particularly urgent and valuable right now:

• Policy Window: While many European countries are tightening immigration policies, Hungary’s current policy is stable and clear. History shows that high-quality programs often raise thresholds or close due to a surge in applications. Now is a rare period of relative accessibility.

• Economic Upswing: The record-breaking tourism growth is just the tip of the iceberg. Large-scale government stimulus plans (tax cuts, wage hikes, subsidies) are rolling out, and early investors can maximize their share of this development dividend.

• Optimal Market Timing: The Euro exchange rate remains attractive, lowering investment costs. Additionally, competition for applications has not yet reached a fever pitch, making the audit process relatively swift.

V. Seize the Moment, Plan for the Future

With its booming economic vitality, superior quality of life, and stable prospects, Hungary is becoming one of the most valuable investment destinations in Europe. The breakthrough in tourism is merely a signal of the country’s overall upward trajectory; deeper investment and lifestyle opportunities are emerging.

Professional Advice from Globevisa:

1. Start Your Evaluation Early: Take advantage of the stable policy window to avoid uncertainties caused by future adjustments.

2. Choose a Professional Agency: Rely on 26 years of industry experience and a track record of serving over 600,000 clients. Our team of lawyers and consultants provides end-to-end support—from precise assessment and professional documentation to efficient submission and relocation assistance—ensuring a high success rate.

3. Coordinate Your Strategy: Combine immigration investment with asset allocation to achieve the synergistic growth of both your status and your wealth.

The window of opportunity is open, but it will not stay open forever. As Hungary advances toward becoming a leading nation in Central Europe, action is better than observation. Contact a Globevisa consultant today for a tailor-made plan to secure your future in Europe.