Student Visa Hungary: Complete Guide for International Students

Hungary has quietly become one of the most sought-after study destinations in Europe, offering affordable tuition fees, a low cost of living, globally recognised degrees, and a supportive, non-competitive learning environment. Historic cities like Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen are not only architectural gems but also home to prestigious universities and a growing international student community.

Whether you’re an Indian student applying for the first time or exploring visa-friendly options for higher education, this guide has everything you need to know. From eligibility criteria and requirements for a Student Visa Hungary to costs, possible refusals, and the appeal process—we’ve compiled it all in one place.
Whether your goal is to pursue a full degree programme or a short-term exchange, this comprehensive guide will answer your questions and outline the steps to help you turn your study abroad dream into reality.

Who Can Apply for a Hungarian Student Visa?

The student visa for Hungary is mostly for non-EU/EEA nationals whose purpose of being in Hungary is to undertake studies for more than 90 days. If you are also a citizen from India or any other non-EU country, you will have to apply for a Hungarian student visa from India at the Hungarian Embassy or consulate in your country.

• You should have obtained an official letter of admission from a Hungarian university or establishment.
• You must also be financially capable of supporting your stay in Hungary.
• Valid travel and health insurance.
• Good character listed and no threat to public security.

Why Study in Hungary?

The fact that Hungary is becoming increasingly popular among international students – and particularly Indian students – is due to its affordability of education, impressive cultural background, and competitive higher education institutions. Whether it is its vibrant student life in Budapest or the calm academic life of Szeged, Hungary has a unique mix of tradition, innovation and opportunity.

The best reasons why students decide to pursue higher education in Hungary are as follows:

Globally Recognised Degrees
The Hungarian Universities are well known for their academic excellence and are renowned in Europe and the world over.

Affordable Tuition and Living Costs
The cost of a student visa and tuition fees in Hungary is considerably lower compared to countries like the UK, USA, or other parts of Western Europe.

Diverse Courses in English
You do not have to learn the Hungarian language to be a student in Hungary. Several universities provide full-time degree courses in English that draw thousands of international students annually.

Safe and Welcoming Environment
Hungary is one of the most secure nations in Europe, with a minimal number of crimes and a high standard of living. The locals appear to be friendly to the international students who find the multicultural environment as the perfect setting for global connections.

Central Location in Europe
Situated in the centre of Europe, Hungary is a gateway to discover neighbouring countries such as Austria, Slovakia, Germany, and others, while having the opportunity to study abroad.

Admission Process for a Hungarian Student Visa

To get a student visa to Hungary, one must first receive acceptance into a recognised Hungarian University. Below is a brief description of the process:

Step 1:Choose Your University and Programme
Research Hungarian universities and find your program according to your goals. Check the official website for course details.

Step 2: Check Requirements and Deadlines
Read the program’s eligibility requirements and collect all the documents required. Don’t miss the application deadline.

Step 3: Apply Online
Fill out your application and submit it through the university’s portal, and upload the required documents. Contact the university in case other measures are required.

Step 4: Receive Admission Letter
After it is accepted, an official invitation letter will be sent to you. Some universities will require partial payment of the tuition fee even before confirmation of enrollment.

Step 5: Book Your Visa Interview
Make an appointment at the Hungarian Embassy in New Delhi. Bring along all your documents, including the admission letter, on the interview day.

Step 6: Wait for Visa Approval
Processing of visas involves a period of approximately 15– 30 days. Once approved, you can plan your flight and prepare yourself for the trip to Hungary!

Documents Needed for a Hungarian Student Visa

Student visa Hungary requirements are the same as elsewhere, but they should be sent carefully.

• Valid passport (with a minimum of two blank spaces and valid beyond six months to the course end date)
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Acceptance letter from a Hungarian university.
• Proof of accommodation in Hungary
• Financial documents (bank statements, sponsor letter, scholarship proof)
• Insurance for travel throughout the Schengen area
• Visa application form
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Flight itinerary (optional but recommended)

Important Instructions Regarding Document Submission

If you are sending documents for the student visa to Hungary, remember the following tips:

• All copies should be clear and legible.
• Originals should be brought for verification during the interview.
• Do not submit fake or manipulated documents — this results in automatic refusal of a visa.
• Make sure that the duration and nature of your course are mentioned in your letter of admission.
• The travel insurance should provide at the minimum €30,000 worth of medical costs.

Hungary Study Visa – Refusals and Appeals

Although the process of obtaining a student visa in Hungary is normally a straightforward process, there is/are possibility that your visa application may be rejected. By knowing the potential grounds for refusal, the manner of filing an appeal, you can take the corrective action in due time and with self-assurance.

Why is the Hungarian Student Visa Often Refused?

These are some of the usual reasons why your student visa for Hungary from India or any other non-EU country may be declined:

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Not doing all the necessary documents or submitting documents with inconsistencies can result in a rejection. Make sure that all the paperwork is up-to-date and properly translated if necessary.

Insufficient Financial Proof
If you fail to prove that you have enough money to pay the tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, your application can be rejected.

Doubt About Study Intentions
If the immigration officer does not believe that you are coming to study in reality, because you have not had clear plans, poor academic records, and a lack of clarity in regards to your motivation, your visa may be denied.

Invalid Health Insurance
Making an insurance policy that does not meet Hungarian or EU health standards can lead to trouble with your application.

Criminal Background or Security Concerns
Any warning signs on your background check may lead to the denial.

Weak Ties to Home Country
If you cannot explain sound reasons to come back home after completing studies (family, property, or a job offer), your application may fall under the category of a high-risk one.

What should I do if my Hungarian student visa is rejected?

If your student visa for Hungary is declined, don’t panic—you have the right to appeal the decision within 8 calendar days of receiving the official rejection letter.

Hungary Student Visa Appeal Process

1. Review the Rejection Letter Carefully

Understand the exact reason for the refusal. This will help you decide whether to file an appeal or consider reapplying.

2. Prepare a Written Appeal

Draft a formal appeal letter explaining why you believe the decision should be reconsidered. Address the specific concerns raised in the rejection and include any missing or corrected documents.

3. Submit the Appeal on Time

You must file your appeal within 8 calendar days of receiving the rejection. Appeals submitted after this deadline are generally not considered.

4. Pay the Appeal Fee

A non-refundable appeal fee is required. The amount may vary depending on your country of application. Be sure to include proof of payment with your appeal documents.

5. Wait for a Decision

Appeal decisions are typically made within 15 to 30 working days, depending on the complexity of your case.

Hungary Student Visa Cost

This Hungary student visa cost understanding is critical in your planning of a study abroad trip. From application fees to other extra costs, being financially well set up guarantees a smooth processing process for the visa.

Here is the breakdown of the costs to be incurred in case you are trying to get a student visa to Hungary from a non-EU country like India.

1. Visa Application Fee

The normal visa application price for a student visa to Hungary (Type D – long-term visa for study purposes) is about:

€110 – €120 (INR 9,800 – 10,700 approx)

2. Document Translation and Notarisation

There are many universities and embassies that ask for documents (for example, birth certificates, academic records, financial proofs, etc.) to be translated into Hungarian and English, and notarised.

Estimated Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 for a certain number of documents, depending on the size of the documents, by metro.

3. Health Insurance

It is mandatory to prove valid health insurance for the whole period of the Study in Hungary.

Estimated Annual Cost: Private Health Insurance: €150 – €300
There are student insurance plans in some universities which might be cheaper than getting private insurance schemes.

4. Proof of Financial Means

Although this is not a direct visa fee, students must have proof in a bank account under their name or their sponsor’s name of having access to sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses (approx. € 6,000 – € 8,000/year).

5. Travel Expenses

Although not included in the visa fee, students should also consider the following:

Flight Tickets to Hungary: ₹40,000- ₹80,000 (one-way, depending on the season and the city)

Conclusion

Student visa Hungary is the door to an excellent education and a colourful cultural experience in the middle of Europe. Every step matters, from understanding the eligibility to sending your application and dealing with the possible rejections.

And if you are one of those who are interested in applying for a student visa for Hungary from India, then ensure you prepare well in advance, ensure your documents are accurate and follow the embassy guidelines to the letter as well.

And keep this in mind that platforms such as MetApply IE are meant to support students like you to study abroad with confidence and ease, since they will enlighten you on all the processes involved when applying for a visa.

*Note: All prices mentioned are approximate values. Students should check official government websites or the respective university websites for exact figures.