United States Visa RequirementsFor Hungary passport holders
Hungarian passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Hungary passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Hungary to United States: What You Need to Know
Hungary joined the US Visa Waiver Program in November 2008, alongside several other Central European nations. The Hungarian-American community is one of Central Europe's largest US immigrant groups, with significant populations in Cleveland, Chicago, and New York. Bilateral relations have had periods of tension, but people-to-people ties remain strong, particularly through cultural exchange and the diaspora. Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) connects to multiple European hubs with onward US service. Hungarian dual nationals with a non-VWP passport must use their Hungarian passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
From Budapest (BUD), connections to the US are available via Frankfurt (FRA) with Lufthansa, Amsterdam (AMS) with KLM, Vienna (VIE) with Austrian Airlines, and London (LHR) with British Airways. New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), and Washington (IAD) are the main US entry points.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted everywhere. Tipping is a social obligation in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff. Exchange Hungarian Forint (HUF) to USD before travel or withdraw USD at US ATMs for competitive rates. Inform your bank before leaving to avoid blocked transactions.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The 90-day limit is strictly enforced. Carry your return ticket and proof of funds. US customs officers will ask about your purpose of visit and accommodation. If visiting Hungarian-American communities, having contact information and an invitation letter can be helpful. Overstaying has serious long-term consequences for future US travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Hungarian citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Hungary joined the US Visa Waiver Program in 2008. Hungarian passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must have an approved ESTA before traveling.
How do Hungarian citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21 by card, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
How long can Hungarians stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
What airlines fly from Hungary to the United States?
There are no nonstop flights from Budapest (BUD) to the US. Connections are available via Frankfurt with Lufthansa, Amsterdam with KLM, Vienna with Austrian Airlines, or London with British Airways.
Can Hungarian citizens work in the US on ESTA?
No. ESTA covers tourism, transit, and business meetings. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision.
What happens if a Hungarian citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation leading to removal, VWP ineligibility, and difficulties with future US visas.
Is it possible to extend a stay in the US beyond 90 days on VWP?
No. The 90-day VWP stay cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, apply for a US visa (such as B-2) before traveling.