Hungary Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025
Claim Hungary citizenship through your Hungary ancestors with no generational limit. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.
What is Hungary Citizenship by Descent?
Hungary citizenship by descent allows individuals with Hungary heritage to claim citizenship through their ancestors at any generation. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Hungary ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.
Key Benefits of Hungary Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 185 destinations
- No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Hungary
- Unlimited Eligibility: No generational limit
- Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality
Hungary Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Government Application Fee
RequiredOfficial Hungary nationality application fee
Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications
Document Collection
RequiredBirth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries
Hungary civil registry documents and international certificates
Document Translations
RequiredCertified translations of non-Hungarian documents
All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators
Apostille Authentication
RequiredApostille stamps for international document authentication
Required for all foreign documents
Hungarian Language Test
RequiredB1 level proficiency test
B1 level required for citizenship
Legal Consultation
OptionalImmigration lawyer assistance with application
Recommended for complex cases
Important Cost Considerations:
- Hungary allows unlimited generations for citizenship by descent
- Processing times typically 4-8 months
- Must demonstrate B1 level Hungarian proficiency
- Dual citizenship is allowed
- All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
- Success rate approximately 94% for complete applications
💡 Money-Saving Tips:
- Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
- Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
- Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
- Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Hungary Citizenship by Descent Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have a Hungary ancestor at any generation
- Your Hungary ancestor retained their citizenship
- You can prove the family lineage with official documents
- You can demonstrate B1 level Hungarian proficiency
- You have no serious criminal convictions
You Don't Qualify If:
- Your Hungary ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
- You cannot obtain the required official documentation
- You have serious criminal convictions
Hungary Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step
Verify Hungary Ancestry
Confirm you have Hungary ancestor who retained citizenship
💡 Tip: Hungary allows unlimited generations for citizenship by descent
Collect Required Documents
Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Hungary lineage
💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated
Hungarian Language Test
Take B1 Hungarian language test
💡 Tip: B1 level required
Submit Citizenship Application
Apply at Hungary consulate or in Budapest
💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country
Application Review and Processing
Hungary authorities review application and verify documents
💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand
Receive Citizenship Certificate
Receive official Hungary nationality certificate
💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application
Apply for Hungary Passport
Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport
💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I trace Hungary ancestry for citizenship?
Hungary allows citizenship by descent for unlimited generations, making it one of the most generous programs in Europe.
Do I need to speak Hungarian to get Hungary citizenship by descent?
Yes, you need to demonstrate B1 level Hungarian proficiency. This requirement shows your connection to the Hungarian community.
How much does Hungary citizenship by descent cost?
Total costs typically range from €200-800, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.
How long does the Hungary citizenship process take?
The process typically takes 4-8 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.
Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Hungarian?
Yes, Hungary allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Hungarian citizenship.