What documents are required to enter Hungary?

To cross the border without any problems, Ukrainian citizens need to have the following documents:

• Biometric passport (valid for more than 180 days from the date of entry)
  
• Health insurance policy
  
  

We also recommend that you bring the following with you:
- Confirmation of the purpose of the trip (hotel reservation, invitation from an individual or legal entity)
- Financial security for the period of stay (cash or bank statement)

The following documents are required for children:

• Biometric passport of the child
  
• Birth certificate (in the absence of a passport)
  
• Children can cross the border with one of their parents without the need to obtain official permission from the other parent.
  
• If the child is traveling with relatives or friends, it is mandatory to have a notarized travel permit from one of the parents.
  

Do I need a Green Card to travel by car to Hungary?

Yes, to travel by car to Hungary you need to have an international insurance policy - a “Green Card”. It is mandatory for all drivers crossing the border by car. “The Green Card guarantees insurance coverage in the EU, including Hungary.

✅🚘 You can apply for a green card for a car by following the link on the Visit Ukraine website.

Do I have to have health insurance to travel to Hungary?

Health insurance is an important element when traveling abroad, and a trip to Hungary is no exception. An insurance policy will provide you with coverage for treatment costs in case of unforeseen situations during your stay abroad, which guarantees your safety and peace of mind. On the Visit Ukraine website, you can quickly and conveniently apply for health insurance online, receiving reliable protection for the duration of your trip.

What do I need to travel with pets?

Ukrainians can travel with pets to Hungary. To do this, the following requirements must be met:

• The animal must have a microchip.
  
• An internationally recognized veterinary passport with information about rabies vaccination made at least 21 days before the trip.
  
• A health certificate issued by an official veterinarian no earlier than 10 days before the trip.
  
• Dogs, cats, and ferrets are subject to the rule of mandatory rabies vaccination.
  

What should I do if my passport expires?

The Embassy of Ukraine in Hungary and the Consulate of Ukraine in the city of Nyiregyhaza extend the validity of a passport for 5 years. The passport may also include information about children under the age of 16. To extend the validity period, you must apply no earlier than two months before the expiration of the passport.

Documents required to extend the validity of a passport or add information about a child

• a valid passport;
  
• birth certificate of the child (for entering data about the child);
  
• two 3.5×4.5 cm photographs (for children);
  
• a document confirming the authority of the legal representative (if necessary).
  
  

These services are provided

• during reception hours (from 8.00 to 12.00 daily);
  
• free of charge on the day of application.
  
  

What should I do if my child does not have his/her own passport?

If a child does not have his or her own passport, his or her data can be entered into the passport of one of the parents. To do this, you must submit

• a valid passport of one of the parents;
  
• the child's birth certificate;
  
• two 3.5×4.5 cm photographs;
  
• a document confirming the authority of the legal representative (if necessary).
  
  

This service is also provided free of charge and during the reception hours of the institution.

However, the best solution would be to obtain a biometric passport for the child. This will provide more freedom when traveling abroad and avoid possible difficulties associated with entering data into the parents' passport.

Many Ukrainians face unforeseen situations at the border or while abroad. Do you have enough documents? How do you get documents for children or pets? And what if you have problems with insurance or need a residence permit for more than 90 days?

🫂 Legal assistance is important for such situations. Visit Ukraine 's lawyers will help you avoid legal difficulties and resolve any issues related to border crossing and legal stay in Hungary.

Our team offers several service options:

1. Written consultation: You don't have to guess or search for answers on the Internet. Get clear, official answers to all your questions when it is convenient for you.
   
2. Introductory consultation (30 minutes): In a short time, we will analyze your situation and provide recommendations on what to do next. This is the fastest way to deal with legal issues.
   
3. Basic consultation (60 min): If your situation requires a deeper analysis, our lawyers will carefully review all aspects of your case and develop a clear plan of action.
   
4. Legal support: If you need to prepare documents for departure or obtain a residence permit, our specialists will help you at every stage. We will accompany you in all legal procedures, ensuring safety and peace of mind during your stay in Hungary.
   
   

Don't leave important issues to the last minute! Legal support will not only facilitate your travel process, but also protect you from possible problems abroad. Advice from our lawyers will save your nerves, time and money.

Winter is not only a time for gifts and hot cocoa, but also the perfect time to travel. If you are planning to spend Christmas or New Year abroad, Hungary is the place to visit. We have collected the best ideas to make your celebration unforgettable.

1. Budapest: winter markets

Be sure to visit the Christmas market on Vereszmarty Square, one of the most beautiful in Europe. Here you can buy unique handmade souvenirs, taste hot mulled wine, traditional kürtoskalács (sweet tube cake) and Hungarian cuisine.

💡 Come in the evening, when the fair shines with colorful lights and the crowd is a little smaller. Don't forget to download the BudapestGO travel app for easy public transportation.

2. Széchenyi Baths: relaxation in a winter fairy tale

Who says you can't swim in winter? The Széchenyi Baths in Budapest are a unique experience: hot thermal pools in the open air, surrounded by steam and incredible architecture. The water is enriched with useful minerals, so relaxing here is also very beneficial.

💡 Buy your tickets online to avoid queues. On weekdays after 16:00 the entrance is cheaper.

3. Lake Balaton: winter harmony

Balaton is not only a summer resort. In winter, this place turns into a quiet paradise. If you're lucky with the weather, the ice on the lake is perfect for ice skating. And in the towns around the lake you will find cozy cafes with local wines and goulash.

💡 Must-try: visit the town of Tihanyi and try local lavender products - from honey to tea.

4. Esztergom: New Year's magic in the old style

The city of Esztergom is a place where history comes to life. It is home to Hungary's largest cathedral, which looks especially impressive in winter. Go up to the cathedral's observation deck to see the snow-covered views of the Danube.

💡 After the tour, visit local restaurants. We recommend trying traditional halaszle, a Hungarian fish soup that is often served during the holidays.

5. Wine tour in Tokaj

For wine lovers, Tokaj is a must-visit. This region is famous for its sweet wines, which are perfect for a festive table. In winter, a special atmosphere reigns here: snow covering the vineyards, cozy tasting rooms and a warm welcome from the locals.

💡 Book your tours in advance. Choose tastings that include Tokaj Aszú, the most famous Hungarian dessert wine.

Planning a trip? Book bus and train tickets quickly and easily on Visit Ukraine! All routes, the best prices and a convenient booking system - everything for a comfortable trip. Don't waste time searching - your ticket to adventure is already waiting for you!

Useful tips for saving money and convenience

• Transportation: buy a travel ticket for a day or three days. It is much cheaper than single trips.
  
• Discounts: Many museums and bathing places offer discounts for students and children. Check when buying tickets.
  
• Gastronomy: try food at fairs - it's not only tasty, but also profitable. This way you can try several different dishes. In addition, an hour before closing, food is often sold at a discount.

What to try in Hungary for the holidays?

• Goulash in a cauldron (gulyás): real, rich goulash cooked in cauldrons right at Christmas markets.
  
• Palacinta: Hungarian pancakes with chocolate, nuts, or cheese - a dessert that will become your favorite.
  
• Retesz: Hungarian strudel with apples, poppy seeds, or even cherries. Warm up with it and a cup of hot tea.
  
• Kurtoskalács: sweet pastries cooked over an open fire. Order it with cinnamon or nuts - it tastes like a holiday!

💡 Tip: visit small family restaurants. The cuisine there is homemade and the prices are often lower.

Travel without worries! Take out reliable travel insurance for your trip to Hungary on Visit Ukraine. Protection against unforeseen situations, medical coverage and 24/7 support. Everything you need to enjoy your vacation with confidence.

Secret places: how the locals celebrate

Don't want to follow the usual routes? Here is a list of locations where Hungarians celebrate:

1. Szimpla Kert is a legendary ruin bar decorated with Christmas lights. Here you can find a fair, live music and warm punch.

2. Central Market Hall: in the winter months, the market turns into a gastronomic center with wine tastings, traditional dishes and souvenirs.

3. Varoschliget (City Park): less tourists, more locals. Ideal for walks, photo shoots, and visiting the ice rink near Vaidahunyad Castle.

👉Life hack: search for local events in the Ultimate Budapest app - from free concerts to theme parties.

Entertainment for families with children

Traveling with kids can be a real adventure if you know where to go.

• The skating rink near Varoszliget is the largest in Europe. Here you can rent skates and enjoy the festive atmosphere in the snowy park.
  
• Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens: it's fun in winter too! Children will especially enjoy the Christmas workshops and light shows.
  
• Museum of Illusions: interactive entertainment for children and adults - impressions and laughter are guaranteed!

Where to shop for Christmas

• Andrássy Avenue: the Hungarian version of the Champs Elysees. Here you will find designer brands and concept stores.
  
• Arena Plaza: the largest shopping center in Budapest, where discounts start even before the New Year.
  
• The streets near St. Stephen's Basilica: crafts, New Year's souvenirs and a magical atmosphere make this an ideal place for gifts.