The First Golden Visa Investment Fund Got Approved

Hungary's first residency-by-investment fund

In a significant update for international investors, the Hungarian National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing has announced the approval of the first real estate fund for Hungary's Golden Visa program. This development makes Sprint Asset's fund the first qualifying options for third-country nationals seeking residency in Hungary through investment, following compliance with stringent regulatory and financial criteria.

By purchasing a minimum of €250,000 in investment units in this fund, prospective investors can secure a Hungarian Golden Visa, offering a promising path to residency in the EU.

Table Of Contents

Introduction to Hungary's Golden Visa Program
Understanding Qualified Market Participant Status
The First Approved Real Estate Fund: A New Pathway to Residency
Steps to Secure Residency with a Real Estate Fund
Conclusion

Introduction to Hungary's Golden Visa Program

Hungary's Golden Visa Program, also known as the Guest Investor Program, offers third-country nationals a pathway to residency through targeted investments. This initiative was designed to attract foreign investors, especially those interested in the country's real estate sector, by providing a route to obtain residency.

With a minimum qualifying investment of €250,000 in an eligible Hungarian real estate fund, investors can secure a Hungarian residence permit, granting them the benefits of European residency. Investing in a real estate fund approved by the National Bank of Hungary (MNB) has become a popular option due to its professional management and the diversified nature of these funds.

Why Choose a Real Estate Fund for Golden Visa Investment?

Real estate funds offer an easy path to Hungarian residency with benefits like:

Regulatory Assurance: Funds meet Hungarian National Bank standards, ensuring compliance for Golden Visa eligibility.
Portfolio Diversity: Access to varied properties, reducing investment risk.
Professional Oversight: Expert managers handle all aspects of the fund.
Greater Flexibility: More accessible and often more liquid than direct property ownership.

Choosing a real estate fund combines ease, security, and potential returns, making it a popular choice for Golden Visa investors.

From eligibility assessment to post-investment services, we provide customized solutions tailored to your residency and investment needs.

Understanding Qualified Market Participant Status

To qualify for Hungary's Guest Investor Program, a real estate fund must meet stringent requirements. One crucial aspect is that the fund manager must hold “Qualified Market Participant” status, as specified in Hungarian and EU regulations. This designation, established under Act XXX of 2016 on Procurement for Defense and Security Purposes, signifies that the fund manager has passed a pre-qualification process. This process, conducted by the relevant authorities, ensures that the fund adheres to strict standards in terms of financial stability, transparency, and compliance, providing an added layer of security for potential investors.

Real estate funds managed by qualified participants are vetted to align with Hungary’s economic and security interests. As part of this qualification, funds must also meet requirements such as

a minimum threshold of assets under management, and
40% of their portfolio value invested in Hungarian residential real estate.

This compliance is essential for eligibility within the Golden Visa framework, as it ensures that the investment promotes long-term stability and growth within the Hungarian property market.

The First Approved Real Estate Fund: A New Pathway to Residency

The recent announcement by the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing has opened up an exciting new avenue for third-country nationals seeking residency in Hungary. For the first time, a real estate investment fund that meets the strict criteria of Hungarian authorities has been approved as a qualifying investment under the Golden Visa program. This marks a significant development, providing a new, regulated path for those who prefer investing in real estate funds over direct property ownership.

Established in March 2024, the company received its operating license from the Hungarian National Bank (MNB) on June 26, 2024. The company's leadership includes individuals with prior involvement in similar investment programs, suggesting a continuation of their activities in the Hungarian investment landscape.

Explore the charm of Hungary’s vibrant culture and scenic landscapes while enjoying residency and visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.

Steps to Secure Residency with a Real Estate Fund

Contact Us And Learn More About Your Options:

Initial Consultation: Reach out to discuss your options under Hungary's Golden Visa Program. During this session, we provide a personalized overview of the investment pathways and identify the best options based on your goals.
Eligibility Assessment: Complete a straightforward Know Your Customer (KYC) process. We’ll review your identification, financial background, and any necessary details to confirm eligibility for the Golden Visa investment path.
Investment Selection: Choose the Real Estate Fund option, requiring a minimum investment of EUR 250,000. We provide guidance on the available funds, including legal due diligence and fund selection tailored to your requirements.
Fund Investment and Escrow: Following your selection, transfer the investment amount into a secure escrow account managed by us. This ensures your funds remain safe throughout the process.
Visa Application Preparation: Our team prepares all the necessary documentation and submits your visa application to the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. This includes arranging any essential legal verifications and translations.
Residency Permit Issuance: Upon approval, we assist with any final steps required to issue your residency permit, valid for 10+10 years, giving you the flexibility to enjoy life in Hungary and the Schengen Area.
Post-Investment Support: We provide ongoing assistance, including tax management, investment updates, and options for family reunification if desired.

Important Note

This website and its contents are intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Hungary’s Golden Visa Program, this content should not be considered legal or financial advice. For specific guidance regarding your eligibility or investment options, we recommend consulting a qualified legal or financial advisor. The Illés and Szabó Lawyers' Association provides dedicated legal services to ensure compliance with Hungarian regulations and secure investment processes.

Conclusion

Hungary’s Golden Visa Program presents a unique opportunity for non-EU investors to gain residency through diverse, carefully regulated investment options. With the recent inclusion of the first real estate fund, obtaining Hungarian residency has become even more accessible for those seeking to establish a base in Hungary or enjoy the benefits of visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area. Whether you’re interested in real estate, fund investment, or supporting Hungary through financial contribution, our team at Illés and Szabó Lawyers' Association is here to guide you every step of the way.