UAE citizens do not require a visa to enter Hungary for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days. However, many UAE residents planning to travel to Hungary in 2026 generally need to obtain a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C). As part of the Schengen Area, it has the same entry rules apply as for most European countries. Applications for Hungary visas from the UAE are handled through VFS Global centres in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
In this guide, you will learn:
- Who needs a Hungary visa from the UAE
- Understanding visa types
- Where and when to apply
- Visa processing time
- Updated visa fees (2026)
- Essential document checklist
- Important notes and common mistakes
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Who needs a Hungary visa from the UAE?
First things first, you won’t need a visa if you are a UAE citizen. Hungary allows entry for UAE citizens for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
On the other hand, most UAE residents must apply for a Schengen visa before travelling to Hungary.
You may not need a new visa if you already hold:
• A valid multiple-entry Schengen visa
• A valid residence permit issued by another Schengen country
In all other cases, a Hungary Schengen visa application is required.
Understanding visa types
Hungary offers different visa categories depending on the length and purpose of stay.
Short-stay Schengen visa (Type C)
This is the most common visa for UAE residents.
- Allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period
- Valid for Hungary and other Schengen countries
- Suitable for tourism, business visits, and short stays
Long-stay visa or residence permit
This applies if you plan to stay in Hungary for more than 90 days.
- Required for work, study, or family reunification
- The application process differs from short-stay visas
- Managed through Hungarian immigration authorities
Where and when to apply
UAE residents must submit their applications through VFS Global in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
- Applications can be submitted:
- Up to 6 months before travel (earliest)
- At least 15 calendar days before departure (legal minimum)
VFS Global – Hungary Visa Application Centre, Abu Dhabi
Location
It’s located in WTC Abu Dhabi, Al Markaziya
Contact Information
Email: info.huae@vfshelpline.com
VFS Global – Hungary Visa Application Centre, Dubai
Location
It’s located in Wafi Mall, Oud Metha
Contact Information
Email: info.huae@vfshelpline.com
To avoid delays, applicants are advised to apply 3 to 4 weeks in advance to allow for administrative handling and possible additional document requests.
Visa processing time
Processing times depend on the completeness of the documents and the travel history.
- Standard processing time: 15 calendar days
- Typical timeframe: 2 to 3 weeks
- Extended processing: up to 30–45 days in complex cases or peak seasons
Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documents may lead to delays.
Updated visa fees (2026)
Following the EU-wide fee update introduced in June 2024, Schengen visa fees remain applicable in 2026.
| Applicant type | Visa fee |
| Adults (Type C) | €90 (approx. AED 389) |
| Children (6–12 years) | €45 (approx. AED 195) |
| Children under 6 | Free |
| VFS service fee | Approx. AED 104 (inclusive of VAT) |
Visa and service fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Essential document checklist
Applicants must submit a complete set of documents. Missing items are a common reason for refusal.
Required documents include:
- Passport issued within the last 10 years, with at least two blank pages and valid for 3 months after leaving the Schengen Area.
- UAE residence visa valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended return date.
- Emirates ID copy (mandatory for UAE residents).
- Bank statements for the last 3 to 6 months, stamped by the bank.
- Employment proof, including an original No Objection Certificate (NOC) stating position, salary and approved leave dates.
- Travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for the entire Schengen Area.
- Confirmed round-trip flight reservation.
- Verifiable hotel bookings or accommodation proof.
All documents must be recent and consistent across names, dates, and travel plans.
Important notes and common mistakes
Applicants should be aware of the following key points:
- Appeals: If a visa is refused, you have 8 days to submit an appeal.
- Financial proof: There is no officially published minimum bank balance, but many applicants maintain AED 10,000–15,000 or more to demonstrate financial stability.
- Common mistakes include mismatched travel dates, unclear itineraries and inconsistencies between flight, hotel and application details.
Clear documentation and consistency significantly improve approval chances.
Key takeaways
- UAE citizens do not require a visa to enter Hungary for tourism or business purposes.
- But UAE residents travelling to Hungary in 2026 generally need a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) unless they already hold a valid Schengen visa or residence permit.
- Applications are submitted via VFS Global in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, with processing typically taking around 15 days.
- Adult visa fees are €90 (approx. AED 389), with reduced fees for children.
- Applying early and submitting complete, consistent documentation is essential to avoid delays or refusal.
FAQs
Yes. Most non-Emirati UAE residents must apply for a Schengen visa unless exempt through an existing Schengen visa or residence permit.
You can apply up to 6 months before travel, but it is recommended to apply 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
Yes. Medical travel insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000 for the entire Schengen Area is compulsory.
You can appeal within 8 days of receiving the refusal. Visa fees are not refunded.
Very strict. Non-compliance with passport validity, photo standards or document consistency often leads to refusal.
