Travel To Hungary: What Americans Need To Know

Americans are allowed to travel to Hungary, but they should be aware of certain restrictions and requirements. While US citizens can enter Hungary for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa, they must have a valid passport and may need to demonstrate proof of funds and a return ticket. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hungary imposed entry bans and other restrictions, but these have since been eased, particularly for vaccinated travellers. Currently, most visitors from the US can enter Hungary, regardless of their vaccination status, but they should stay updated with any changes to the latest travel advice.

No visa required for stays under 90 days

US citizens can enter Hungary without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. This is because Hungary is a provisional member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows citizens of participating countries to enter the US for tourism or business purposes for 90 days or less without a visa. The US reciprocates this arrangement, enabling US citizens to enter Hungary without a visa for the same period.

However, there are several conditions that US citizens must meet to enter Hungary without a visa. Firstly, their passport must be valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen Zone. Secondly, they must have sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. Finally, they must have appropriate travel insurance.

Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, which allows for free movement between certain European countries. US citizens can visit all these countries without a visa for a total period of 90 days within 180 days. This includes the following countries:

• All European Union member states
• Andorra
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Monaco
• Norway
• San Marino
• Switzerland
• Vatican City

Please note that there may be additional requirements for entry into Hungary due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is recommended that you check the latest guidance from your local authorities before travelling.

Register with Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Americans are allowed to travel to Hungary for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa. If you are planning to travel to Hungary, it is recommended that you register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This is a free service provided by the U.S. State Department to help protect the interests and lives of U.S. citizens traveling abroad and to notify them of potential dangers or disruptions to their travel plans.

• Safety and security updates: STEP leverages the network of U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to provide you with timely information about security and safety issues in your destination countries. This includes alerts about political unrest, violence, or natural disasters, helping you stay informed and make necessary adjustments to your plans.
• Evacuation assistance: In the event of a crisis, such as a pending natural disaster or emergency in your area, STEP will provide notifications and send you evacuation information. Registering with STEP also makes it easier for the State Department to locate and assist you, if needed.
• Family emergencies: STEP facilitates communication in case of a family emergency back home. If a disaster or crisis occurs in your home country, STEP can help expedite your return by providing necessary information and directing you to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Embassy/consulate assistance: STEP can assist you in contacting the local embassy or consulate for various reasons, such as getting lost in an unfamiliar city or facing more serious issues. They can provide directions, information about transportation options, or other relevant assistance.
• Trip information: STEP provides valuable information about your destinations before you depart. While this may not lead to trip cancellations, having this knowledge can help you make informed decisions and better prepare for your journey.
• Integration with travel insurance: STEP works well in conjunction with travel insurance. For instance, if a covered reason for trip cancellation, as specified in your travel insurance plan, occurs, STEP can notify you and guide you to the nearest embassy to initiate the necessary processes for returning home.

Remember, you need to register with STEP for each international trip you take. By taking advantage of this program, you can enhance your travel safety and have better peace of mind while abroad.

No COVID-19 test or quarantine required for vaccinated travellers

Americans are allowed to travel to Hungary, and there are no COVID-19 testing or quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travellers. However, it is important to stay up to date with the latest travel advisories and restrictions, as these can change frequently.

No COVID-19 Testing or Quarantine for Vaccinated Travellers

Fully vaccinated travellers from the United States can enter Hungary without any COVID-19 testing or quarantine requirements. This means that vaccinated Americans are allowed to enter Hungary without restrictions. This exemption applies regardless of the vaccination status of the traveller, and no negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result is required upon entering Hungary.

Masks Not Required in Public Spaces

Mask usage in Hungary is not mandatory in public spaces, enclosed environments, or on public transportation. However, it is important to monitor local news and official sources for any changes to these guidelines.

Travel Insurance Recommended

Although there are no testing or quarantine requirements for vaccinated travellers, purchasing travel insurance is strongly recommended. This can provide valuable coverage in case of unforeseen medical emergencies, accidents, or travel delays or cancellations due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. Hungarian authorities have also accepted vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), and travellers with valid proof of vaccination are exempted from additional requirements.

Other Entry Requirements for Hungary

It is important to note that while there may be no COVID-19-related restrictions for vaccinated travellers, standard entry requirements for Hungary still apply. These may include having a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and a return plane ticket. It is recommended to review the specific entry requirements for Hungary, as well as the latest travel advisories from official sources, such as the U.S. Department of State or the CDC, before planning your trip.

Face masks are not mandatory in indoor spaces

Americans are allowed to travel to Hungary for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa. However, they should be aware of the latest travel advisories and health and safety guidelines, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regarding face masks, there is conflicting information. Some sources indicate that masks are not required in public spaces, enclosed environments, and public transportation. However, other sources suggest that mask mandates have been reinstated in Hungary due to increasing COVID-19 cases. These mandates include wearing masks in enclosed indoor spaces such as shopping malls, museums, theatres, cinemas, and public administration facilities. It is important to check the latest official guidelines before traveling.

• Hungary is a party to the Schengen Agreement, which allows for free movement between certain European countries.
• It is recommended to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency.
• A valid passport and proof of sufficient funds and a return plane ticket are required for entry.
• There are no specific vaccination requirements for entry, but it is recommended to be up to date on all vaccinations.
• Petty crime, theft, and highway robberies can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation.
• Medical facilities in Hungary may be below U.S. standards, especially in rural areas. It is recommended to purchase medical evacuation insurance.
• Terrorism and civil unrest are potential risks, and it is advised to avoid public demonstrations and areas of political gatherings.

Carry your passport at all times

Americans are allowed to travel to Hungary, but there are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to carrying your passport. Here are some detailed instructions and information about carrying your passport at all times while in Hungary:

Firstly, always carry your passport with you when travelling in Hungary. This is important for identification purposes and can help you if you encounter any issues. Local police may request to see your passport to establish your identity, and you may be taken into custody if you cannot produce it. Having your passport on hand will also make it easier for you to seek assistance from the local U.S. Embassy if needed.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Hungary. This is a requirement for entry into the country. Keep your passport secure and safe from theft, as it is a valuable document. Consider investing in a money belt or passport holder that you can wear under your clothes to keep your passport safe.

When travelling, it is also a good idea to make a copy of your passport and store it separately from the original. That way, if your passport is lost or stolen, you have the essential information needed to report the loss and begin the replacement process. Keep the copy in a safe place, such as a locked hotel safe or secure digital storage.

In addition to carrying your passport, it is recommended to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This will allow the local U.S. Embassy to reach out to you in case of emergencies and provide you with important updates and alerts during your stay in Hungary.

By following these instructions and keeping your passport secure and easily accessible, you can help ensure a smoother travel experience in Hungary and be prepared for any situations that may arise.

Frequently asked questions