Published: 30 May 2026 · Reading time: 10 min · By Buy Budapest Apartments Editorial Team

A listed heritage apartment in Budapest sits inside a building protected under Hungarian cultural heritage law, which means any structural change, façade alteration or interior modification requires prior approval from the National Directorate General for Cultural Heritage (Forster Központ successor body). Owners share maintenance obligations for common parts, face stricter renovation rules, and must budget for higher upkeep costs — but these properties also command strong long-term demand in districts like V, VI and VII.

What ‘listed’ actually means in Budapest

In Hungary, cultural heritage protection operates under Act LXIV of 2001 on the Protection of Cultural Heritage (Kulturális örökség védelméről szóló törvény). A building or apartment complex receives listed status when it is entered into the national register of immovable cultural heritage assets, maintained by the Pest County Government Office and overseen at national level by the Forster Gyula National Centre for Heritage Management (now integrated into the National Directorate General for Cultural Heritage, or NÖSZTÉP).

Listed status is not a single category. Hungarian law distinguishes between műemlék (monument), which is the highest level of protection, and helyi védelem (local protection), which is administered by the relevant district municipality. A műemlék building carries the strictest constraints: almost every physical intervention — from replacing a window frame to installing a satellite dish — requires a heritage permit in addition to the standard building permit. Local protection is somewhat lighter but still limits what owners can do to the exterior and, in some cases, the interior.

When you buy an apartment inside a listed building, you are buying into a shared legal framework. The individual flat may be privately owned, but the building’s protected elements — the staircase, the courtyard, the ornamental stucco, the roof structure — are subject to collective obligations that all co-owners share. This is a fundamental difference from buying in a modern condominium.

Which districts and building types are most affected

The highest concentration of listed residential buildings in Budapest is found in the inner districts. District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) contains a dense cluster of late-19th and early-20th century apartment houses, many of them műemlék. Districts VI (Terézváros) and VII (Erzsébetváros) are home to the grand Andrássy út boulevard — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the surrounding streets lined with eclectic and Art Nouveau apartment blocks. Districts VIII (Józsefváros) and IX (Ferencváros) also contain significant numbers of locally protected buildings.

The typical building type is the bérpalota — a multi-storey rental palace built between roughly 1870 and 1914, characterised by ornate façades, internal courtyards with wrought-iron galleries, and high-ceilinged apartments. These buildings were constructed during Budapest’s rapid expansion after the 1873 unification of Buda, Óbuda and Pest, and many are considered irreplaceable examples of Hungarian historicist and Secession architecture.

Outside the inner districts, listed residential buildings appear in Buda as well: the Castle District (District I) is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and properties there face some of the most stringent heritage controls in the country. Óbuda (District III) contains Roman-era and Baroque-period structures with their own protection regimes.

Renovation rules and permit requirements

Any work that touches a protected element of a listed building requires a örökségvédelmi engedély (heritage permit) from the relevant authority before a standard building permit can be issued. For műemlék buildings, this authority is NÖSZTÉP at national level. For locally protected buildings, it is the district municipality’s heritage officer. The permit process involves submitting architectural drawings, material specifications and, in many cases, a heritage impact assessment prepared by a licensed heritage architect (műemléki szakértő).

In practice, this means that common renovation tasks — replacing original wooden windows with double-glazed units, opening up a wall between rooms, installing underfloor heating, or adding a mezzanine — all require formal approval and may be refused or require modifications to meet heritage standards. Approved replacements often must use materials that match the original: lime-based plaster rather than cement render, period-appropriate joinery profiles, and so on. These materials and the specialist labour to apply them cost significantly more than standard construction.

Interior elements that are not themselves listed — a modern kitchen fitted in the 1980s, for example — can generally be replaced without heritage involvement, provided the work does not affect load-bearing structures or protected decorative features. However, if original parquet floors, tiled stoves (cserépkályha), or ornamental ceilings are present, they may be individually protected even if not explicitly listed in the permit documents. A heritage architect’s survey before purchase is strongly advisable.

Façade and common-area obligations

In a Hungarian condominium (társasház), the façade, roof, structural walls, staircase and courtyard are common property. All co-owners share the cost of maintaining and repairing these elements in proportion to their ownership share. In a listed building, this obligation is compounded by the requirement to use heritage-approved methods and materials whenever common elements are repaired or restored.

Budapest’s district municipalities periodically issue mandatory façade renovation orders, particularly in Districts V, VI and VII where the streetscape is considered part of the city’s architectural heritage. When such an order is issued, the condominium must carry out the work within a set timeframe regardless of whether individual owners have budgeted for it. The cost is shared among all flat owners. A large bérpalota on Andrássy út or Király utca might face a façade restoration bill running into tens of millions of forints, and each apartment owner’s share can be substantial.

Some district municipalities offer partial subsidies or low-interest loans for heritage façade work, and EU structural funds have historically contributed to restoration programmes in Budapest’s inner districts. However, these programmes are not guaranteed, and buyers should not assume subsidy availability when calculating their budget.

Budapest’s inner-district listed buildings sit within one of Central Europe’s most intact 19th-century urban streetscapes. That heritage status is precisely what makes them desirable — and precisely what makes ownership more demanding than a standard apartment purchase.

Costs to expect beyond the purchase price

Buyers of listed heritage apartments in Budapest should model their total cost of ownership carefully. The table below summarises the main additional cost categories compared with a non-listed apartment of similar size and location.

Cost category	Listed heritage apartment	Non-listed apartment (same district)
Heritage permit fees	Required for most structural/exterior work; administrative fees apply	Not required
Heritage architect fees	Typically needed for permit applications and supervision	Not required
Renovation materials	Often higher due to period-appropriate specifications	Standard market rates
Condominium common-area levies	Can be significantly higher due to façade/roof restoration obligations	Standard maintenance levies
Energy efficiency upgrades	Constrained by heritage rules; full insulation of façade often not permitted	Fewer restrictions
Legal due diligence	More complex; heritage lawyer or specialist recommended	Standard conveyancing

Energy efficiency is a particular challenge. External wall insulation — the most cost-effective way to improve a building’s thermal performance — is typically prohibited on listed façades because it alters the building’s appearance. Owners must rely on internal insulation (which reduces floor area), upgraded windows (subject to heritage approval), and improved heating systems. This means utility costs in older listed buildings tend to remain higher than in newer stock, which is worth factoring into any rental yield calculation. For a detailed look at how rental returns work in Budapest, see the 8% rental yield property management service.

Impact on rental income and resale value

Despite the additional obligations, listed heritage apartments in Budapest’s inner districts have historically held their value well and attracted consistent rental demand. The high ceilings (typically 3.2–4 metres), original parquet floors, ornate plasterwork and courtyard settings are features that short-term rental platforms and long-term tenants alike value. Apartments on Andrássy út, around Szabadság tér in District V, or on the quieter streets of the Palace Quarter in District VIII regularly achieve premium rents relative to comparable modern apartments.

Resale value is more nuanced. A well-maintained, properly permitted listed apartment in a prime location tends to appreciate in line with or above the broader Budapest market. However, an apartment where previous owners carried out unpermitted work — removed a protected staircase balustrade, replaced original windows without approval, or altered a protected interior — can face serious complications at resale. The buyer’s notary or lawyer will identify these issues during due diligence, and the seller may be required to remedy them or accept a price reduction. Unpermitted work in a listed building can also attract fines from the heritage authority.

For buyers considering the investment angle, the case for investing in Budapest property remains grounded in the city’s tourism numbers, its position as a regional capital, and the relative affordability of its real estate compared with Vienna or Prague. Listed buildings add a layer of complexity but not necessarily a reason to avoid the market.

Due diligence checklist before you buy

Buying a listed heritage apartment in Budapest requires more thorough due diligence than a standard purchase. The legal process should always involve a qualified Hungarian property lawyer, and for listed buildings specifically, a heritage architect’s preliminary assessment is worth commissioning before you commit. Our safe property purchase legal service covers the key steps, but the heritage-specific items below deserve particular attention.

• Obtain the property’s entry in the national heritage register (műemléki nyilvántartás) and confirm the protection category (műemlék or helyi védelem).
• Request the condominium’s deed of foundation (alapító okirat) and house rules (szervezeti és működési szabályzat) to understand how common-area costs are allocated.
• Ask for minutes of the last three condominium general meetings to identify any pending or planned restoration works and associated levies.
• Check the land registry (Földhivatal) for any encumbrances, heritage-related annotations, or outstanding fines.
• Commission a heritage architect to inspect the apartment and identify any unpermitted alterations to protected elements.
• Verify that all previous renovation permits were properly closed (final inspection completed) and that no open enforcement proceedings exist.
• Confirm the building’s energy performance certificate (EPC) rating and understand what improvements are feasible under heritage rules.
• Check whether the building falls within a UNESCO buffer zone (relevant in Districts I, VI and parts of V), which may impose additional constraints.

Working with an agency that has direct experience with listed properties in Budapest’s inner districts reduces the risk of overlooking these issues. You can browse current Budapest property listings filtered by district to get a sense of what is available and at what price points, and the buying guide articles cover related topics in depth.

Frequently asked questions

Can a foreign buyer purchase a listed heritage apartment in Budapest?

Yes. EU citizens can purchase listed apartments in Budapest on the same terms as Hungarian nationals. Non-EU citizens can also buy, though they may require a permit from the regional government office (kormányhivatal) for agricultural land — this does not typically apply to urban apartments. A Hungarian property lawyer should confirm the current rules for your specific nationality before you proceed.

Does listed status affect the mortgage I can get on a Budapest apartment?

Hungarian banks will mortgage listed apartments, but valuers may apply a discount to reflect the higher maintenance obligations and the constraints on renovation. Some lenders require an additional technical survey. It is worth consulting a mortgage broker familiar with heritage properties before assuming standard financing terms will apply to a listed building purchase.

What happens if I carry out renovation work without a heritage permit?

The heritage authority (NÖSZTÉP or the district municipality, depending on protection category) can issue a stop-work order, impose fines, and require the owner to restore the building element to its original condition at their own expense. In serious cases, criminal liability can arise. These obligations transfer to a new owner, so unpermitted work discovered after purchase becomes the buyer’s problem.

Are there tax benefits for owning or restoring a listed building in Budapest?

Hungarian law has historically provided some VAT relief and local tax exemptions for certified heritage restoration works, but the rules change periodically. A Hungarian tax adviser should be consulted for current provisions. EU-funded restoration grants have also been available through Budapest’s district municipalities, though availability varies by programme cycle and is not guaranteed.

How do I find out if a specific Budapest apartment is in a listed building?

The national heritage register (műemléki nyilvántartás) is publicly searchable through the Hungarian government’s cultural heritage portal. You can search by address or cadastral parcel number. The district municipality’s urban planning office (főépítész) can also confirm whether a building carries local protection status. Your property lawyer should check both registers as part of standard due diligence.

Is it possible to convert a listed Budapest apartment into a short-term rental?

Short-term rental operation (e.g. via Airbnb) is governed by separate municipal rules in Budapest, including registration requirements and, in some districts, restrictions on the number of nights per year. Listed status does not in itself prohibit short-term rental, but any physical changes needed to accommodate guests — additional bathrooms, altered layouts — remain subject to heritage permit requirements. Check both the heritage rules and the current short-term rental regulations for the relevant district.

Sources

• Act LXIV of 2001 on the Protection of Cultural Heritage — Hungarian Legal Database (Jogtár)
• UNESCO World Heritage List: Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue
• Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH) — property and construction statistics
• Hungarian National Asset Management Inc. (MNV Zrt.) — state property and heritage asset information

Published: 30 May 2026 · Reading time: 10 min · By Buy Budapest Apartments Editorial Team

Pre-war apartments in Budapest offer character, central locations, and strong rental demand, but come with higher maintenance costs and older systems. New-build condominiums offer energy efficiency, warranties, and modern layouts, but sit further from the city core and carry a price premium per square metre. The right choice depends on your budget, intended use, and appetite for renovation.

What counts as pre-war in Budapest

In Budapest, “pre-war” almost always means built before 1945, and the most sought-after stock dates from the Austro-Hungarian era between roughly 1880 and 1914. These are the ornate apartment buildings lining the grand boulevards of Districts V, VI, VII, and VIII — the Andrássy út corridor, the Nagykörút ring road, and the streets around Kálvin tér. Buildings from the interwar period (1920s–1930s) also fall under this umbrella and are structurally similar.

Typical features include three-metre-plus ceiling heights, herringbone parquet floors, decorative stucco facades, and deep courtyards. Structurally, most are load-bearing brick with timber or concrete floor beams depending on the decade. The electrical wiring, plumbing, and insulation in these buildings are almost always original unless the flat or the whole building has been renovated — and that distinction matters enormously when you are pricing a purchase.

Budapest’s pre-war building stock survived the Second World War unevenly. Districts V and VI fared better; parts of District VIII and the Castle District in District I suffered heavier damage and subsequent patchy reconstruction. Always check the specific building’s history, not just the neighbourhood’s general reputation.

What counts as new-build in Budapest

New-build in the Budapest market typically means a project completed after 2010, though most active developments today were built or are being built from 2018 onward. The main new-build clusters are in District XIII along the Váci út corridor, the Millennium City Centre area in District IX, and emerging pockets in Districts XI and XIV. A handful of boutique new developments have appeared inside the historic core, but land scarcity keeps them rare and expensive.

Modern Budapest condominiums are built to current Hungarian energy standards (OTÉK), which align broadly with EU energy performance directives. They come with A or B energy ratings, underfloor heating options, lifts, underground parking, and in many cases communal amenities such as rooftop terraces or concierge services. Developers typically offer a five-year structural warranty under Hungarian civil law.

Off-plan purchases — buying before a building is complete — are common in Budapest’s new-build market. This can mean a lower entry price but requires careful due diligence on the developer’s track record and the contract terms, particularly around completion guarantees and deposit protection.

Price comparison: purchase cost per square metre

Prices shift constantly, but the structural relationship between pre-war and new-build pricing in Budapest has been consistent. Renovated pre-war flats in prime central districts (V, VI, VII) typically trade at a premium over unrenovated stock in the same building by a wide margin — sometimes double. New-builds in outer districts trade at a discount to new-builds in the inner core, but often at a premium over unrenovated pre-war stock in those same outer areas.

Property type	Typical district	Indicative price range (HUF/m²)	Notes
Pre-war, unrenovated	VII, VIII	700,000 – 900,000	Renovation budget required on top
Pre-war, fully renovated	V, VI	1,100,000 – 1,600,000+	Turnkey; premium for upper floors with lift
New-build, outer districts	XIII, XI, XIV	900,000 – 1,200,000	Energy efficient; parking often included
New-build, inner core	V, IX (Millennium)	1,300,000 – 2,000,000+	Scarce supply; boutique projects

These ranges are illustrative based on market conditions as of early 2026 and will vary by floor, condition, and specific street. The key takeaway: an unrenovated pre-war flat in District VII can look cheap on a per-square-metre basis, but a realistic renovation budget of HUF 200,000–350,000 per square metre for a full fit-out closes much of that gap against a ready new-build.

For a broader view of what is currently available across both categories, the Budapest property listings page shows live stock with price-per-square-metre data for each unit.

Running costs: heating, maintenance and building fees

This is where pre-war apartments most often surprise buyers. Heating costs in an unrenovated pre-war flat can be two to three times higher per square metre than in a modern building, because the walls, windows, and roof are rarely insulated to current standards. District heating (távhő) is common in older Budapest buildings and is billed collectively through the building’s management company (közös képviselet). You pay a share of the whole building’s consumption, not just your own flat’s — which means a poorly managed building with inefficient common areas costs every owner more.

Building maintenance fees (közös költség) in pre-war buildings vary enormously. A well-managed building in District V with a functioning lift and a reserve fund might charge HUF 40,000–70,000 per month for a 60 m² flat. A neglected building in District VIII with a failing roof and no reserve fund might charge less on paper but hit owners with irregular special levies for emergency repairs that can run into millions of forints.

New-build buildings in Budapest typically have lower monthly fees in the early years because systems are new and warranties cover most defects. However, fees tend to rise after the first five to ten years as the building ages and the developer’s management company hands over to an owner-elected body. Underground car parks and concierge services also add to the monthly cost in premium new developments.

Rental income and short-term let potential

Budapest’s rental market has historically favoured pre-war apartments in the central districts, particularly for short-term tourist lets. A renovated two-bedroom flat on Király utca in District VII or near the Basilica in District V commands strong Airbnb-type occupancy because tourists specifically want the high-ceiling, parquet-floor aesthetic. That demand is real and persistent, though Budapest’s municipality has introduced registration requirements for short-term rentals that any buyer should review before banking on that income stream.

Long-term rental demand is more evenly spread. Young professionals and expats working in Budapest’s growing tech and financial services sectors actively rent in Districts XIII and XI — areas dominated by new-build stock. A modern two-bedroom flat near the Váci út offices in District XIII can achieve competitive long-term yields because the tenant pool is large and turnover is relatively low.

In Budapest, pre-war flats in Districts V–VII consistently generate the highest gross short-term rental yields, while new-builds in District XIII and IX tend to outperform on long-term tenancy stability and lower vacancy periods.

If rental income is your primary goal, the 8% rental yield property management service covers both property types and can give you a realistic income projection based on current market data before you commit to a purchase.

Resale value and long-term appreciation

Pre-war apartments in Budapest’s inner districts have shown strong long-term capital appreciation, partly because supply is fixed — no one is building new pre-war buildings — and partly because central Budapest land is scarce. Well-located, well-renovated pre-war flats in Districts V and VI have historically held value through market downturns better than peripheral new-builds, though past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns.

New-builds depreciate relative to their launch price in the first few years after completion, a pattern seen in most European markets. The premium a developer charges for a brand-new unit is partly a novelty premium that erodes once the building is a few years old. That said, energy efficiency is becoming a more significant factor in European property valuations as buyers and tenants increasingly factor in running costs. A B-rated new-build may become comparatively more attractive as older, inefficient stock faces higher energy bills.

For buyers interested in the buy-renovate-resell model — purchasing an unrenovated pre-war flat, refurbishing it, and selling at a premium — the Renovate & Resell service outlines how that process works in Budapest, including typical timelines and margin expectations.

The investment case for both types is explored in more depth on the Why invest in Budapest page, which covers macroeconomic factors affecting both segments.

Legal and practical considerations for foreign buyers

EU citizens can purchase both pre-war and new-build apartments in Hungary without special permits, subject to standard registration requirements. Non-EU nationals require a permit from the regional government office (kormányhivatal), which is routinely granted for residential purchases but adds time to the transaction. This applies equally to both property types.

One practical difference: new-build purchases often involve a developer contract (adásvételi szerződés with stage payments) rather than a straightforward resale contract. The legal review of a developer contract requires specific attention to penalty clauses, completion date guarantees, and what happens if the developer becomes insolvent before handover. Pre-war resale purchases are more straightforward contractually but require thorough title searches, especially in buildings that changed hands multiple times during the post-1989 restitution period.

The Safe Property Purchase legal service covers the due diligence process for both pre-war and new-build transactions, including title checks, contract review, and representation at the land registry.

Which type suits which buyer

There is no universally correct answer, but the decision usually comes down to three variables: how you plan to use the property, how much active management you are willing to do, and your time horizon.

Buyer profile	Better fit	Reason
Short-term rental investor	Pre-war, Districts V–VII	Tourist demand for period character; central location
Long-term rental investor, hands-off	New-build, Districts IX–XIII	Lower maintenance; stable professional tenant pool
Own use / relocation	Depends on lifestyle preference	Pre-war for culture and walkability; new-build for comfort and parking
Renovate and resell	Pre-war, unrenovated	Value-add margin exists; new-builds have little upside on purchase
Capital preservation, low involvement	New-build or renovated pre-war	Avoids surprise repair levies; predictable costs

If you are still weighing specific properties, browsing the current properties for sale in Budapest alongside this framework should help you filter quickly. Both pre-war and new-build stock appear in the listings with building year, energy rating, and monthly fee data where available.

Whichever direction you lean, the decision deserves proper local advice. Budapest’s market has enough micro-level variation — one street in District VII can differ sharply from the next in terms of building quality and management — that general rules only take you so far.

Frequently asked questions

Are pre-war apartments in Budapest more expensive than new-builds?

Not always. Unrenovated pre-war flats in Districts VII and VIII can be cheaper per square metre than new-builds in the same area. However, fully renovated pre-war apartments in prime Districts V and VI often exceed new-build prices. The total cost of ownership — including renovation and ongoing maintenance — is the more relevant comparison than headline purchase price alone.

Can foreigners buy both pre-war and new-build apartments in Budapest?

EU citizens can buy either type without a permit. Non-EU nationals need a permit from the regional government office (kormányhivatal), which applies to both pre-war and new-build purchases equally. The permit process typically takes four to six weeks and is routinely approved for standard residential purchases. A Hungarian property lawyer should handle the application.

What are the typical monthly costs for a pre-war apartment in Budapest?

Monthly building fees (közös költség) for a 60 m² pre-war flat range from roughly HUF 30,000 to HUF 80,000 depending on the building’s condition, lift, and reserve fund. District heating adds a further HUF 20,000–50,000 per month in winter. Unrenovated flats with poor insulation sit at the higher end of the heating range. Always request the building’s financial records before purchasing.

Do new-build apartments in Budapest come with a warranty?

Yes. Under Hungarian civil law, developers must provide a minimum five-year structural warranty (jótállás) on new residential buildings. Buyers should confirm warranty terms in the purchase contract and check whether the developer has a track record of honouring claims. The warranty covers structural defects but not general wear and tear or buyer-caused damage.

Which Budapest districts are best for pre-war apartment investment?

Districts V, VI, and VII are the most established for pre-war investment, offering the strongest short-term rental demand and long-term capital preservation. District VIII offers lower entry prices with higher renovation risk. District I (Castle District) has prestige but limited liquidity. District IX’s Ferencváros is a transitional area where pre-war and new-build stock coexist.

Is it worth buying an off-plan new-build in Budapest?

Off-plan purchases can offer a price discount of 5–15% compared to completed units from the same developer, but they carry completion risk. Buyers should verify the developer’s track record, ensure deposit funds are held in escrow or backed by a bank guarantee, and have a Hungarian property lawyer review the contract thoroughly before paying any money. Completion delays of six to twelve months are not uncommon.

How does energy efficiency affect resale value in Budapest?

Energy efficiency is a growing factor in European property markets, including Budapest. New-builds with A or B energy ratings are increasingly attractive to buyers and tenants who factor running costs into affordability. Pre-war buildings with poor insulation may face a relative discount as energy prices remain elevated. Some pre-war buildings have completed full external insulation (hőszigetelés) programmes that substantially close the efficiency gap.

What renovation costs should I budget for an unrenovated pre-war Budapest flat?

A full renovation of an unrenovated pre-war flat in Budapest — new electrical wiring, plumbing, windows, flooring, kitchen, and bathroom — typically costs HUF 200,000–350,000 per square metre depending on specification and contractor. A 60 m² flat could therefore require HUF 12–21 million on top of the purchase price. Partial renovations cost less but may leave hidden problems unaddressed.

Sources

• Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH) — Housing statistics
• Magyar Nemzeti Bank — Housing Market Report
• European Commission — Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
• Global Property Guide — Hungary property market overview

Published: 30 May 2026 · Reading time: 10 min · By Buy Budapest Apartments Editorial Team

In 2026, Hungarian banks typically offer foreign buyers fixed mortgage rates in the range of 6–8% per annum in HUF, with EUR-denominated loans available at lower nominal rates but carrying currency risk. Most lenders require a 30–40% deposit from non-residents, proof of stable foreign income, and a clean credit history. EU citizens generally face fewer restrictions than non-EU nationals.

How Hungarian mortgage lending works for foreigners

Hungary’s mortgage market is regulated by Magyar Nemzeti Bank (MNB), the central bank, which sets the base rate and issues binding rules on debt-service-to-income (DSTI) ratios and loan-to-value (LTV) ceilings. Commercial banks operate within those rules and add their own credit policies on top — which is why the experience for a foreign buyer can vary significantly from one lender to the next.

Foreign nationals are not legally barred from taking a mortgage in Hungary. EU citizens with a Hungarian address registration (lakcímkártya) are treated almost identically to Hungarian residents by most banks. Non-EU nationals face an additional layer of scrutiny: some banks require a Hungarian residence permit, while others will lend based on a long-term visa or even a foreign address, provided the income documentation is strong enough.

The loan is always secured against the Hungarian property itself, registered in the land registry (Földhivatal). The bank places a mortgage lien (jelzálogjog) on the title, which is discharged once the loan is repaid. A Hungarian notary and a lawyer must be involved in the transaction — the bank’s own legal team handles the mortgage deed, but the buyer still needs independent legal representation for the purchase contract. You can read more about the legal process in our guide to safe property purchase in Budapest.

Current mortgage rate ranges in 2026

After the MNB’s rate-cutting cycle that began in late 2023 and continued through 2025, the base rate has stabilised in the 6–7% corridor as of mid-2026. Commercial mortgage rates for foreign buyers sit modestly above that, reflecting the additional risk premium banks attach to non-resident income. Below is a realistic snapshot of the rate environment in 2026; exact offers change monthly, so treat these as orientation figures rather than live quotes.

Loan type	Currency	Indicative rate (p.a.)	Typical fixed period	Notes
Standard residential mortgage	HUF	6.5–8.0%	5 or 10 years	Most common product for foreign buyers
EUR-denominated mortgage	EUR	4.5–6.0%	5 years	Available at select banks; currency risk applies
Variable-rate HUF mortgage	HUF	6.0–7.5%	None (resets annually)	Lower initial rate; exposed to MNB rate moves
Green / energy-efficient property loan	HUF	5.5–7.0%	10 years	Subsidised products; availability varies by bank

The MNB’s debt-service-to-income cap means that for most foreign buyers, the monthly mortgage payment cannot exceed 50% of verified net income — a rule that effectively determines the maximum loan size before the bank even considers the property value.

EUR-denominated loans look attractive on paper because Eurozone rates remain below Hungarian HUF rates. However, MNB rules introduced after the 2008 foreign-currency mortgage crisis mean that banks must stress-test borrowers against significant HUF/EUR exchange-rate moves. In practice, many banks are cautious about offering EUR loans to buyers whose income is also in EUR, because the property value is in HUF — creating a mismatch if the forint weakens sharply.

Fixed vs variable rates: which makes sense for a foreign buyer

Hungarian mortgage products are described by their interest-rate fixation period. A “10-year fixed” means the rate is locked for a decade, after which it resets to the prevailing market rate. A “variable” product resets every 12 months based on a reference rate (typically the 12-month BUBOR or the MNB base rate plus a margin).

For a foreign buyer who does not live in Hungary full-time, a longer fixed period is almost always the more sensible choice. You are not on the ground to monitor rate movements, and the administrative burden of refinancing from abroad is considerable. The 5-year and 10-year fixed products offered by OTP Bank, K&H Bank, and Erste Bank Hungary are the most widely used by non-resident buyers for exactly this reason.

Variable rates made sense during the 2021–2022 low-rate environment, but with the MNB base rate still elevated relative to pre-pandemic norms, the interest-rate risk on a variable product is asymmetric for a foreign buyer who may not react quickly to rate rises. Unless you have a specific reason to expect rates to fall sharply in the near term, a fixed product removes one significant uncertainty from an already complex cross-border transaction.

Deposit requirements and loan-to-value limits

MNB regulations cap LTV at 80% for HUF loans on residential property for Hungarian residents. For foreign buyers — particularly non-EU nationals — most banks apply a more conservative internal policy of 60–70% LTV, meaning a deposit of 30–40% is the practical norm. Some banks will go to 70% LTV for EU citizens with a Hungarian address registration and verifiable EU-source income.

On a typical Budapest apartment purchase — say, a 65 m² flat in the 7th or 13th district priced around HUF 55–65 million — a 35% deposit means bringing roughly HUF 19–23 million (approximately EUR 48,000–58,000 at mid-2026 exchange rates) to the table before fees. That is a meaningful capital commitment, and it is one reason many foreign buyers explore whether their home-country equity or savings can cover the purchase outright. See our overview of why investors choose Budapest for context on how purchase prices compare to other European capitals.

Which banks lend to non-residents in Hungary

Not every Hungarian bank actively pursues foreign-buyer mortgage business. The institutions with the most established track records for non-resident lending as of 2026 are OTP Bank (the largest domestic lender), K&H Bank (owned by KBC Group), Erste Bank Hungary, and UniCredit Bank Hungary. MBH Bank, formed from the merger of several state-linked banks, also has mortgage products but its non-resident policies are less standardised.

OTP Bank is the most commonly used by foreign buyers because of its branch network, English-language documentation, and relatively clear non-resident criteria. K&H and Erste tend to be more flexible on income documentation for EU citizens employed by large multinationals. UniCredit is worth approaching if you already bank with UniCredit in your home country, as the group relationship can sometimes smooth the income-verification process.

Smaller savings cooperatives (takarékszövetkezetek) and online-only lenders generally do not lend to non-residents. A mortgage broker (jelzáloghitel-közvetítő) who specialises in foreign clients can save considerable time by pre-screening which bank is most likely to approve your specific profile before you submit a formal application. Browse our current Budapest property listings to get a sense of price points before approaching a lender.

Documents and eligibility criteria

The documentation list for a foreign buyer is longer than for a Hungarian resident, and gathering everything before you start viewing properties seriously is time well spent. Banks typically require the following:

• Valid passport and, where applicable, residence permit or EU registration certificate
• Last 3–6 months of payslips or, for self-employed applicants, 2 years of certified tax returns from your home country
• Last 3–6 months of bank statements showing salary credits
• Employer confirmation letter (for employees) stating contract type, length of service, and salary
• Credit report from your home country (some banks accept a Schufa, Experian, or equivalent report; others commission their own checks)
• Proof of existing assets (savings, other property) — particularly important if income is variable
• Hungarian tax identification number (adóazonosító jel) — obtainable from the Hungarian tax authority (NAV) before or during the application process
• Preliminary sale and purchase agreement (előszerződés) for the specific property

All foreign-language documents must be translated into Hungarian by a certified translator (OFFI or equivalent). This adds both cost and time — budget two to three weeks for the translation process if your documents are in a less common language. German, English, and French documents are handled quickly; documents in Arabic, Chinese, or other scripts take longer.

True cost of a Hungarian mortgage: fees, taxes and insurance

The headline interest rate is only part of the cost. Hungarian mortgage transactions carry a cluster of one-off and recurring charges that foreign buyers sometimes underestimate. The table below summarises the main items.

Cost item	Typical amount	Paid to
Property valuation fee	HUF 30,000–80,000	Bank’s valuer
Mortgage deed registration	HUF 12,600 (fixed statutory fee)	Land registry
Loan origination / processing fee	0.5–1.5% of loan amount	Bank
Compulsory home insurance (lakásbiztosítás)	HUF 60,000–150,000 per year	Insurance provider
Life / income-protection insurance	Varies; often required by bank	Insurance provider
Legal fees (buyer’s lawyer)	0.5–1% of purchase price	Your solicitor
Property transfer tax (vagyonszerzési illeték)	4% of purchase price	Hungarian state (NAV)

Adding these together, the all-in transaction cost for a foreign buyer using a mortgage typically runs to 6–8% of the purchase price on top of the deposit. For a HUF 60 million apartment, that means budgeting an additional HUF 3.6–4.8 million in transaction costs. This is broadly comparable to other Central European markets but higher than, for example, Germany or Austria.

If you are purchasing as an investment and plan to let the property, the rental income can offset mortgage payments meaningfully. Our Budapest property management service provides a realistic picture of achievable yields in different districts, which is useful when stress-testing your mortgage affordability against rental income scenarios.

Alternatives to a Hungarian mortgage

Given the deposit requirements and documentation complexity, a significant share of foreign buyers in Budapest purchase without a local mortgage. The most common alternatives are:

1. Cash purchase: Straightforward and fast. Removes currency risk, bank approval risk, and ongoing interest cost. Particularly common among buyers from Western Europe and North America purchasing smaller apartments in the HUF 30–50 million range.
2. Home-equity release in the buyer’s home country: Remortgaging or drawing on a home-equity line of credit (HELOC) in the UK, Germany, or the Netherlands to fund a Budapest purchase in cash. The interest rate is typically lower than a Hungarian HUF mortgage, and the income documentation requirements are simpler.
3. Developer payment plans: Some new-build developers in Budapest offer staged payment schedules tied to construction milestones, effectively providing short-term financing without a bank. This is not a mortgage, but it reduces the upfront capital requirement.
4. Hungarian company purchase with business financing: Buying through a Hungarian Kft (limited liability company) opens access to commercial lending products. This route has tax implications and setup costs, but can be advantageous for buyers acquiring multiple properties. See our guide to Hungarian company setup for property ownership for a detailed breakdown.

None of these alternatives is universally better than a local mortgage — the right choice depends on your tax residency, existing assets, investment horizon, and appetite for currency exposure. A qualified financial adviser familiar with both your home jurisdiction and Hungarian tax law is the appropriate person to model the options for your specific situation.

If you are still at the research stage, our properties for sale in Budapest page gives a live view of what is available across all price points, from compact studio apartments in the 8th district to larger family homes in Buda.

Frequently asked questions

Can a non-EU citizen get a mortgage in Hungary?

Yes, though it is more difficult than for EU citizens. Non-EU nationals typically need a valid Hungarian residence permit or long-term visa, a larger deposit (often 40% or more), and strong income documentation. OTP Bank and UniCredit Hungary are among the lenders most willing to consider non-EU applicants on a case-by-case basis. Working with a local mortgage broker is strongly recommended.

How long does mortgage approval take in Hungary for a foreign buyer?

From submitting a complete application to receiving a binding offer, the process typically takes four to eight weeks for foreign buyers — longer than for residents, mainly because of the time needed to verify foreign income and translate documents. Factor this into your purchase timeline and ensure your preliminary sale contract includes a financing condition clause.

Are Hungarian mortgage rates fixed for the full loan term?

No. Hungarian fixed-rate products fix the rate for a defined period — most commonly 5 or 10 years — after which the rate resets to the prevailing market rate. Truly lifetime-fixed mortgages are not a standard product in Hungary. After the fixed period expires, you can renegotiate with your existing bank or refinance elsewhere, subject to any early-repayment penalties.

Is it cheaper to borrow in EUR than in HUF in Hungary?

The nominal rate on EUR-denominated loans is currently lower than on HUF loans, but the currency risk is real. If the forint weakens against the euro, your HUF-equivalent debt increases. MNB regulations require banks to stress-test borrowers against this scenario. For most foreign buyers whose income is in EUR, a EUR loan can make sense, but only if you fully understand and can absorb the exchange-rate exposure.

What is the maximum loan term for a Hungarian mortgage?

Most Hungarian banks offer residential mortgage terms of up to 30 years, though 20 years is more common in practice. The maximum term is also constrained by the borrower’s age — banks typically require the loan to be fully repaid before the borrower turns 70 or 75, depending on the lender’s policy.

Do I need a Hungarian bank account to get a mortgage in Hungary?

Yes. All major Hungarian mortgage lenders require you to open a current account with them as a condition of the mortgage. This account is used for the direct debit of monthly repayments. Opening a Hungarian bank account as a non-resident requires your passport, Hungarian tax number (adóazonosító jel), and proof of address — either Hungarian or foreign, depending on the bank.

Can rental income from the property be used to qualify for a Hungarian mortgage?

Generally no, at the application stage. Hungarian banks assess affordability based on existing, verified income — not projected future rental income. Once you have a track record of rental income declared to the Hungarian tax authority (NAV), some banks will consider it for refinancing applications, but not for an initial purchase mortgage on a property you do not yet own.

What happens if I want to sell the property before the mortgage is repaid?

You can sell at any time. The mortgage lien is discharged from the land registry once the outstanding loan balance is repaid from the sale proceeds. Most Hungarian mortgage contracts include an early-repayment clause allowing full repayment, though a fee of up to 1–2% of the outstanding balance may apply during the fixed-rate period. Check the specific terms before signing.

Sources

• Magyar Nemzeti Bank — Mortgage Lending Regulations
• Magyar Nemzeti Bank — Monetary Council Press Releases
• OTP Bank Hungary — Mortgage Products
• Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH) — Housing and Real Estate Statistics
• Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) — Property Transfer Tax

Published: 29 May 2026 · Reading time: 10 min · By Buy Budapest Apartments Editorial Team

When transferring money to Hungary for property, EU buyers within the SEPA zone pay the lowest fees and settle in one business day. Non-EU buyers typically use SWIFT wire transfers or Wise (formerly TransferWise), which offers mid-market exchange rates and lower fees than most banks. All transfers above roughly €10,000–€15,000 trigger anti-money-laundering checks, so prepare source-of-funds documentation before you send.

How property payments work in Hungary

Hungarian property transactions are almost always denominated in Hungarian Forints (HUF), though some sellers — particularly in the premium districts of Budapest such as the 5th and 12th — list prices in euros as a convenience. Regardless of the listing currency, the final purchase price in the signed sale-and-purchase agreement (adásvételi szerződés) must be stated in HUF, and the funds land in a Hungarian bank account, typically held by the land registry notary or the seller’s attorney.

The payment structure usually follows two stages: a deposit (foglaló) of around 10% paid shortly after signing the preliminary contract, and the remaining balance paid on or before the completion date set in the main contract. Both payments need to clear in HUF to a Hungarian IBAN. That means your transfer method must handle the EUR-to-HUF or GBP-to-HUF conversion somewhere in the chain — either at your sending bank, at the receiving Hungarian bank, or via a specialist platform like Wise.

Hungary is an EU member state but not in the eurozone, which creates a slightly awkward middle ground: EU residents benefit from SEPA infrastructure, but the currency conversion step adds cost and complexity that purely eurozone buyers do not face. Non-EU buyers — from the UK, US, UAE, Israel, or elsewhere — must use SWIFT and navigate additional compliance requirements. Understanding why Budapest attracts international buyers is one thing; knowing how to move the money efficiently is another.

SEPA transfers: the cheapest route for EU buyers

SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) covers 36 countries including all EU member states, the UK (post-Brexit SEPA access is maintained for credit transfers), Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and several others. If you hold a euro account in any SEPA country, you can send euros to a Hungarian IBAN at near-zero cost. Standard SEPA Credit Transfers settle within one business day; SEPA Instant Credit Transfers settle in seconds, though not every Hungarian bank supports the instant rail for incoming international payments.

The catch is currency conversion. You are sending euros, but the receiving Hungarian bank will convert those euros to HUF at its own exchange rate, which typically includes a spread of 1–2% above the mid-market rate. For a €100,000 purchase, that spread alone can cost €1,000–€2,000. One way around this is to open a Hungarian bank account yourself (OTP Bank, Erste Bank Hungary, and K&H Bank all offer accounts to non-residents with a valid address), convert HUF there at a negotiated rate, and then make the final payment in HUF domestically. This adds administrative steps but can reduce conversion costs on larger sums.

For buyers purchasing a smaller Budapest apartment — say, a 40 m² studio in the 7th or 8th district in the HUF 35–45 million range — the convenience of a single SEPA transfer often outweighs the marginal conversion cost. For larger purchases, it is worth comparing the receiving bank’s conversion rate against Wise before you commit.

SWIFT wire transfers: the standard for non-EU buyers

Buyers from outside the SEPA zone — including the United States, United Kingdom (for non-euro transfers), Canada, Australia, and the Gulf states — will use SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) wire transfers. SWIFT is reliable and universally accepted by Hungarian banks, but it is the most expensive option in terms of fees and exchange rate margins.

A typical outgoing SWIFT wire from a US bank costs $25–$50 in sending fees. The receiving Hungarian bank may charge an incoming wire fee of €10–€30. Correspondent banks in the chain (there are often one or two) may each deduct a small fee. On top of that, the exchange rate applied by your sending bank — or by the Hungarian receiving bank — is rarely the mid-market rate. For a $200,000 transfer, the total friction (fees plus spread) can easily reach $3,000–$5,000 depending on which banks are involved.

To reduce costs on SWIFT transfers, ask your bank for a “full payment” (OUR) instruction, where you cover all fees upfront so the full amount arrives at the Hungarian IBAN. The alternative “SHARE” or “BEN” instructions mean deductions occur mid-chain, and the amount received may fall short of the contracted purchase price — a problem that can delay completion. Always confirm the exact HUF amount required with your Hungarian attorney before initiating the transfer, and add a small buffer to account for any last-minute rate movement.

Wise and other fintech options

Wise (formerly TransferWise) has become a popular choice for property buyers sending large sums internationally. It uses the mid-market exchange rate — the rate you see on Google or Reuters — and charges a transparent percentage fee, typically 0.35–1% depending on the currency pair and transfer size. For a EUR-to-HUF transfer of €150,000, Wise’s fee would be in the range of €500–€1,500, compared to potentially €2,000–€4,000 in combined fees and spread through a traditional bank SWIFT transfer.

Wise supports transfers to Hungarian IBANs and handles EUR/HUF, GBP/HUF, USD/HUF, and other pairs. Settlement to a Hungarian bank account typically takes one to two business days. One important note: Wise has transfer limits, and very large property payments (above roughly €1 million equivalent) may require verification steps or may need to be split — contact Wise’s business team in advance if your transfer is above €500,000.

Other fintech platforms worth considering include Currencies Direct and Moneycorp, both of which specialise in large property-related international transfers and offer dedicated account managers. These services can lock in a forward contract — fixing your EUR/HUF rate weeks or months in advance — which is useful if you are concerned about Forint volatility between signing the preliminary contract and the completion date. The HUF has historically been one of the more volatile Central European currencies, and a 3–5% rate move between contract and completion is not unusual.

Fees and settlement times compared

The table below summarises the key differences between the three main transfer methods for a typical Budapest property purchase. Figures are indicative and based on publicly available fee schedules as of mid-2026; always verify current rates directly with your provider.

Method	Best for	Typical fee (€100k transfer)	Exchange rate	Settlement time	Transfer limit
SEPA Credit Transfer	EU euro account holders	€0–€5 sending fee + 1–2% conversion spread at receiving bank	Bank rate (spread applies)	1 business day	No regulatory cap; bank limits vary
SWIFT Wire Transfer	Non-EU buyers (US, UK, UAE, etc.)	€30–€80 in fees + 1.5–3% conversion spread	Bank rate (spread applies)	1–4 business days	No regulatory cap; bank limits vary
Wise	Any buyer wanting mid-market rate	€350–€1,000 (0.35–1% fee, mid-market rate)	Mid-market rate	1–2 business days	~€1M+ (verify for large sums)
Currencies Direct / Moneycorp	Large transfers, forward contracts	Low fee; competitive rate (negotiate)	Near mid-market; forward contracts available	1–2 business days	No practical cap for property

On a €200,000 purchase, the difference between a bank SWIFT transfer and a Wise or specialist FX transfer can exceed €3,000 — enough to cover a year of property management fees or a significant renovation item.

Anti-money-laundering checks you will face

Hungary applies EU Anti-Money Laundering Directives (AMLD), and Hungarian real estate transactions are a designated obliged sector under Act LIII of 2017 on the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing. In practice, this means your Hungarian attorney, the notary, and the receiving bank will all conduct Know Your Customer (KYC) and source-of-funds checks before or upon receipt of large transfers.

The threshold that typically triggers enhanced due diligence is €10,000 or the HUF equivalent, though attorneys are required to report any suspicious transaction regardless of amount. You should expect to provide: a copy of your passport or national ID, proof of address, and documentation explaining the source of funds. Acceptable source-of-funds documents include recent bank statements (typically three to six months), a sale confirmation if the funds come from selling another property, inheritance documentation, or a letter from your employer or accountant if the funds represent savings from employment or business income.

Your sending bank or platform will also conduct its own checks. Wise, for example, may request source-of-funds documentation for transfers above certain thresholds and can place a hold on the transfer while documents are reviewed — which can delay your completion if you leave it to the last minute. Start the KYC process with your transfer provider at least two weeks before your scheduled completion date. For a full overview of the legal framework around safe property purchase in Budapest, the process is worth understanding in detail before you sign anything.

Practical steps before you transfer

Once you have agreed a purchase price and your Hungarian attorney has reviewed the title deed and prepared the preliminary contract, follow these steps to ensure your transfer goes smoothly:

1. Confirm the exact HUF amount with your attorney — including any notary fees, stamp duty (vagyonszerzési illeték, currently 4% for most buyers), and attorney fees that may be payable at the same time.
2. Choose your transfer method based on your country of residence, the transfer size, and your timeline. For transfers above €50,000, compare at least two options.
3. Prepare your source-of-funds documents before you initiate the transfer. Gather bank statements, a sale confirmation for any property sold, and any other supporting evidence.
4. Register and verify your account on Wise or your chosen specialist FX platform at least two weeks before your transfer date. Verification can take several business days.
5. Use the OUR fee instruction if sending via SWIFT, so the full amount arrives at the Hungarian IBAN.
6. Send a small test transfer (e.g., HUF 5,000–10,000) to confirm the destination IBAN is correct before sending the full deposit or balance. This is especially important for first-time transfers to a new account.
7. Keep all transfer confirmations (SWIFT reference numbers, Wise transfer IDs) and share them with your attorney. The Hungarian land registry process requires evidence that the purchase price was paid.
8. Consider a forward contract if there is a gap of more than a few weeks between signing and completion. HUF can move significantly against EUR or GBP in a short period.

If you are purchasing as a non-EU national or through a company structure, there may be additional requirements around foreign exchange registration with the Hungarian National Bank (Magyar Nemzeti Bank). Your attorney should advise on this, but it is worth raising the question early. Buyers exploring a Hungarian company setup for tax-efficient property ownership should note that company accounts have their own KYC requirements that can add time to the transfer process.

For buyers who are still at the research stage and have not yet identified a property, browsing current Budapest property listings gives a realistic sense of price ranges across different districts, which helps you plan the transfer size and timeline. And if you are weighing up the broader financial case, the investment thesis for Budapest covers rental yields, capital growth history, and the factors that make the city attractive to international buyers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I pay for a Budapest apartment in euros instead of HUF?

The sale-and-purchase agreement (adásvételi szerződés) must state the price in Hungarian Forints under Hungarian law. Some sellers quote prices in euros as a reference, but the legal contract and the actual payment will be in HUF. Your transfer will be converted to HUF either by your sending bank, the receiving bank, or a specialist FX platform before it settles.

How long does a SWIFT transfer to Hungary take?

A SWIFT wire transfer from a US, UK, or UAE bank to a Hungarian IBAN typically takes one to four business days. Delays can occur if the transfer is flagged for AML review at any bank in the correspondent chain. Sending early in the week and providing all required documentation upfront reduces the risk of delays near your completion date.

Is Wise safe for large property transfers to Hungary?

Wise is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK and by equivalent regulators in the EU. It holds client funds in segregated accounts. For transfers above roughly €500,000, it is advisable to contact Wise’s business team in advance to confirm limits and verification requirements. Many property buyers use Wise for deposits and smaller tranches, and specialist FX brokers for the main balance payment.

What documents do I need to prove source of funds for a Budapest property purchase?

Your Hungarian attorney and the receiving bank will typically require three to six months of bank statements, plus supporting evidence of where the funds originated — such as a property sale confirmation, inheritance documentation, a dividend statement, or an accountant’s letter for business income. The exact requirements depend on the transfer amount and your country of residence. Prepare these documents before you initiate any transfer.

Does Hungary have restrictions on foreigners transferring money in to buy property?

EU and EEA nationals face no restrictions on transferring funds to Hungary for property purchases. Non-EU nationals can also transfer funds freely, though agricultural land purchases have separate restrictions. Large incoming transfers may require foreign exchange registration with the Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Hungarian National Bank) in certain circumstances — your attorney will advise based on your specific situation and the purchase structure.

What is a forward contract and should I use one for a Budapest purchase?

A forward contract lets you lock in today’s EUR/HUF (or GBP/HUF) exchange rate for a transfer that will happen weeks or months in the future. Specialist FX brokers such as Currencies Direct and Moneycorp offer these. They are worth considering if there is a gap of more than two to three weeks between signing your preliminary contract and the completion date, since the Hungarian Forint can be volatile against major currencies.

What happens if my transfer arrives short of the contracted amount?

If the amount received in HUF falls short of the contracted purchase price — due to mid-chain bank fees or an unfavourable conversion — your Hungarian attorney will notify you immediately. You will need to top up the difference before the seller or notary will release the title deed for registration. This is why using the OUR fee instruction on SWIFT transfers and confirming the exact HUF amount in advance are both important steps.

Sources

• Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Hungarian National Bank) — official foreign exchange and payment regulations
• Wise — International wire transfer guide
• European Central Bank — SEPA overview
• FATF — Hungary mutual evaluation and AML framework
• Hungarian Act LIII of 2017 on Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering (National Legislation Repository)

How to Open a Hungarian Bank Account as a Foreign Buyer in 2026

Published: 28 May 2026 · Reading time: 10 min · By Buy Budapest Apartments Editorial Team

Foreign nationals can open a Hungarian bank account in person at branches of OTP Bank, K&H Bank, Erste Bank Hungary, and Raiffeisen Bank Hungary. You need a valid passport, proof of address from your home country, and a Hungarian tax number (adószám). The process typically takes one to three business days once all documents are accepted. A local account is effectively required to pay property deposits, notary fees, land registry duties, and ongoing utility bills.

Why you need a Hungarian bank account when buying property

Buying a property in Budapest without a local bank account is technically possible in some narrow circumstances, but in practice it creates serious friction at almost every stage of the transaction. The deposit — typically 10% of the purchase price — is usually wired to the seller’s Hungarian account or held in escrow by the notary. International transfers arriving from foreign banks can trigger additional compliance checks and delays that put your purchase timeline at risk.

Beyond the deposit, you will need to pay the notary fee (roughly 0.5–1% of the property value), the 4% property transfer tax (vagyonszerzési illeték) to the Hungarian Tax Authority (NAV), and land registry fees. NAV expects payment from a Hungarian forint account in most standard transactions. Once you own the property, monthly utility direct debits, building maintenance charges (közös költség), and any mortgage repayments all run through a local account.

If you plan to rent the property out, rental income paid by tenants is almost always in HUF into a Hungarian account. Our 8% rental yield property management service handles income collection, but the proceeds still need somewhere to land. Starting the bank account process early — ideally before you sign a preliminary purchase agreement — saves real stress later.

Which banks accept foreign customers in 2026

Not every Hungarian bank will open an account for a non-resident foreigner without a Hungarian address card (lakcímkártya). The four institutions that have the most established procedures for foreign property buyers are OTP Bank, K&H Bank, Erste Bank Hungary, and Raiffeisen Bank Hungary. Each has English-speaking staff at select Budapest branches, though availability varies by location and day.

Bank	Non-resident foreigners accepted	English service available	Online pre-registration
OTP Bank	Yes	Selected branches	No (in-person required)
K&H Bank	Yes	Selected branches	No (in-person required)
Erste Bank Hungary	Yes	Selected branches	No (in-person required)
Raiffeisen Bank Hungary	Yes	Selected branches	No (in-person required)
MBH Bank	Case by case	Limited	No
CIB Bank	Case by case	Limited	No

OTP Bank is Hungary’s largest retail bank and has the widest branch network, including prominent locations in District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) and District VI (Terézváros) — both areas where many foreign buyers purchase apartments. K&H Bank is part of the KBC Group and tends to have smoother processes for EU citizens. Erste Bank Hungary, part of the Austrian Erste Group, is often the preferred choice for German and Austrian buyers already familiar with the brand.

Non-EU nationals — including buyers from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the Gulf states — can open accounts at all four banks listed above, but should expect more thorough Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and may need to provide source-of-funds documentation.

Documents you must bring to the branch

Hungarian banks are subject to EU Anti-Money Laundering directives and Hungarian Act LIII of 2017 on the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing. In practice this means the document checklist is non-negotiable. Arriving without any item on this list will result in the appointment being rescheduled.

• Valid passport — must be the original, not a photocopy. Some banks also accept a national ID card for EU/EEA citizens.
• Hungarian tax number (adószám) — issued by NAV. See the next section for how to get this.
• Proof of address in your home country — a recent utility bill, bank statement, or official government letter, typically no older than three months. Must show your name and address clearly.
• Proof of purpose — a preliminary purchase agreement (előszerződés), estate agent confirmation, or a letter from a Hungarian lawyer explaining that you are purchasing property. This satisfies the bank’s KYC requirement for why a non-resident needs a Hungarian account.
• Source of funds declaration — for non-EU nationals or for transactions above certain thresholds, banks may ask you to explain and document the origin of the funds (salary slips, sale of assets, inheritance documentation, etc.).

Getting your Hungarian tax number first

The Hungarian tax number (adószám) is issued by the National Tax and Customs Administration (Nemzeti Adó- és Vámhivatal, or NAV). You apply in person at any NAV office using form T34. The process is free and usually completed the same day or within a few working days. You do not need a Hungarian address to apply — your foreign address is sufficient on the form.

The adószám is a ten-digit number that identifies you for all tax purposes in Hungary, including property transfer tax and any rental income tax. Without it, the bank cannot open an account, and the notary cannot process the property transfer. Getting it should be your very first administrative step when you decide to buy. NAV’s main Budapest office is at Dózsa György út 128–132 in District XIV, and there are district offices throughout the city.

EU citizens who already have a Hungarian address card (because they have registered their residency) receive their adószám automatically. Most foreign buyers, however, arrive without registered residency and need to apply separately. The whole NAV visit typically takes under an hour if you bring your passport and a completed T34 form. You can find the current version of the T34 on the NAV website (nav.gov.hu).

Step-by-step account opening process

Once you have your adószám and all supporting documents, the in-branch process at any of the four main banks follows roughly the same sequence. Book an appointment in advance — walk-in availability for foreign account openings is unreliable, particularly at busy city-centre branches.

1. Book an appointment — call the bank’s English-language line or ask your estate agent to help arrange this. Specify that you are a non-resident foreigner opening an account for property purchase purposes.
2. Attend the branch with originals — bring every document listed above. The advisor will photocopy everything and may ask you to sign declarations on the spot.
3. Complete the KYC interview — the advisor will ask about your occupation, the source of funds, and the purpose of the account. Answer clearly and consistently with your supporting documents.
4. Account approval — for straightforward cases (EU citizens, clear documentation), approval may come the same day. For non-EU nationals or complex source-of-funds situations, the bank’s compliance team may take two to three business days.
5. Receive your IBAN and debit card — the IBAN is usually available immediately after approval. The physical debit card arrives by post within five to seven business days, or can sometimes be collected at the branch.
6. Set up internet banking — activate online access before you leave Hungary if your stay is short. You will need to receive an SMS verification code to a phone number you can access.

Costs, fees, and account types to consider

Hungarian bank accounts for private individuals come in two main flavours relevant to property buyers: a standard HUF current account (folyószámla) and a multi-currency account that also holds EUR or USD. For most property buyers, a standard HUF account is sufficient. The property purchase price is typically agreed in EUR but the actual payment is converted to HUF at the time of transfer — your lawyer or the notary will advise on the mechanics.

Fee type	Typical range (2026)	Notes
Monthly account maintenance	HUF 0–2,500/month	Some banks waive this for the first year or if a minimum balance is maintained
Incoming international transfer	HUF 0–3,000 per transaction	Varies by bank and transfer amount
Outgoing HUF transfer (domestic)	HUF 0–500 per transaction	Often free via internet banking
Currency conversion	0.5–1.5% spread	Compare with Wise or Revolut for large transfers
Account opening fee	HUF 0	No Hungarian bank charges an opening fee for standard accounts

If you are transferring a large sum from abroad — say, the purchase price of a District VII apartment in the HUF 50–80 million range — the currency conversion spread matters. Many buyers use a specialist FX service such as Wise or a currency broker for the main transfer and only keep the Hungarian account for local payments. This is a legitimate and common approach; discuss it with your property lawyer before the transaction.

For buyers interested in the investment angle, our guide on why to invest in Budapest covers the broader financial case, including typical yields and capital growth trends.

Common reasons applications are refused or delayed

Hungarian banks refuse or delay foreign account applications more often than local ones, and the reasons are almost always documentary rather than personal. Understanding the common failure points lets you prepare properly.

• Missing or expired adószám — the single most common issue. The bank cannot proceed without it.
• Proof of address older than three months — banks are strict about this. A utility bill from six months ago will be rejected.
• No clear purpose for the account — if you cannot show a preliminary purchase agreement or a lawyer’s letter, the bank may classify you as high-risk and decline.
• Nationality-based enhanced due diligence — nationals of countries on the FATF grey list or EU high-risk third countries face additional checks. This does not mean automatic refusal, but it does mean longer processing times and more documentation.
• Politically exposed person (PEP) status — if you hold or have held a senior public office, you must declare this. Banks will still open accounts for PEPs but the process involves additional compliance sign-off.
• Inconsistent information — if the address on your passport differs from the address on your utility bill, or your stated occupation does not match your source of funds, the compliance team will flag it.

Alternatives if you cannot open an account immediately

If your account opening is delayed and you have a deposit deadline approaching, there are a few practical workarounds. First, your Hungarian property lawyer (ügyvéd) holds a client escrow account and can receive your deposit on your behalf, disbursing it to the seller once your own account is operational. This is standard practice and is explicitly permitted under Hungarian conveyancing rules. Make sure this arrangement is written into the preliminary purchase agreement.

Second, for buyers who already use Wise or Revolut, both services issue IBANs in multiple currencies including HUF. These are not Hungarian bank accounts in the traditional sense — they are e-money institution accounts — and Hungarian notaries and NAV may not accept them for all payment types. However, they can be useful for smaller day-to-day payments while your main bank account is being processed. Always confirm with your lawyer which payments must come from a licensed Hungarian credit institution.

Third, some buyers purchase through a Hungarian company (Kft.), which has its own corporate bank account. This is a more complex route but has tax advantages in certain scenarios. Our Hungarian company setup service covers this option in detail. For most straightforward residential purchases, however, a personal account at one of the four main banks remains the simplest and fastest path.

If you are still in the research phase and want to see what is currently available before committing to the banking process, browse our Budapest property listings to get a sense of the market. When you are ready to move forward, our team can refer you to English-speaking bank advisors at branches accustomed to working with foreign buyers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open a Hungarian bank account online without visiting Budapest?

No. As of 2026, all four major Hungarian banks that accept foreign non-residents require an in-person visit for the initial account opening. Remote or fully digital onboarding is not available for non-residents without a Hungarian address card. You must be physically present in Hungary to complete the KYC process and sign the account agreement.

Do I need a Hungarian address to open a bank account?

No. A foreign home address is accepted by OTP Bank, K&H Bank, Erste Bank Hungary, and Raiffeisen Bank Hungary for non-resident account openings. You will need to provide proof of that foreign address — a recent utility bill or official letter — rather than a Hungarian lakcímkártya. If you later register residency in Hungary, you can update the address on the account.

How long does it take to get a Hungarian tax number (adószám)?

Applying in person at a NAV office using form T34 typically results in same-day or next-business-day issuance. Bring your original passport and a completed T34 form. The service is free. NAV’s main Budapest office is in District XIV. Some district NAV offices can also process the application. Allow half a day for the visit, including any queue time.

Can non-EU nationals — for example, Americans or British citizens — open a Hungarian bank account?

Yes. Non-EU nationals including US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens can open accounts at the four main banks. Expect enhanced KYC checks and a possible request for source-of-funds documentation. The process may take two to five business days rather than one. Having a Hungarian property lawyer’s letter confirming the purchase purpose significantly smooths the application.

Is a Hungarian bank account required to pay property transfer tax?

In practice, yes. The 4% property transfer tax (vagyonszerzési illeték) is assessed by NAV and payment is typically made via a Hungarian bank transfer to NAV’s account. While NAV does accept certain international transfers in some circumstances, your notary and lawyer will almost always instruct you to pay from a Hungarian HUF account to avoid processing complications and delays.

What happens to my Hungarian bank account after the property purchase is complete?

You can keep the account open indefinitely. It remains useful for paying building maintenance charges (közös költség), utility bills, and any property-related taxes. If you rent the property out, rental income is typically collected into this account. There is no legal requirement to close it, and most foreign property owners in Budapest keep their account active for ongoing property management purposes.

Can I use a Wise or Revolut account instead of a Hungarian bank account?

For some day-to-day payments, yes. However, Wise and Revolut are e-money institutions, not licensed Hungarian credit institutions, and Hungarian notaries, NAV, and some utility providers may not accept payments from these accounts for official transactions. They are a useful supplement but not a full replacement for a traditional Hungarian bank account when purchasing property.

Which Budapest branch is best for foreign buyers opening an account?

Branches in District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) and District VI (Terézváros) tend to have the most experience with foreign clients and are more likely to have English-speaking advisors available. OTP Bank’s Váci utca branch and Erste Bank’s Andrássy út branch are frequently recommended by foreign buyers. Always book an appointment in advance and specify that you are a non-resident opening an account for property purchase.

Sources

• Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) — Official English portal
• Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Hungarian National Bank) — Consumer information on banking services
• Financial Action Task Force (FATF) — Country risk classifications
• EU Anti-Money Laundering Directive (AMLD4) — EUR-Lex
• Hungarian Act LIII of 2017 on AML/CFT — Magyar jogszabályok (Jogtar)

Lawyer and Notary Costs When Buying a Budapest Apartment in 2026

Published: 28 May 2026 · Reading time: 9 min · By Buy Budapest Apartments Editorial Team

Lawyer fees for buying property in Budapest typically run 0.5%–1% of the purchase price, with a practical minimum of around HUF 150,000–200,000 for smaller apartments. The notary countersigning the land registry application adds a fixed statutory fee, usually HUF 12,000–15,000. Neither fee is legally capped, but both are negotiable, and the buyer pays both in the vast majority of transactions.

How Hungarian property law structures these fees

Hungary requires that every residential property sale be prepared and countersigned by a licensed Hungarian attorney (ügyvéd). This is not optional. Unlike some countries where a notary alone handles the conveyance, Hungarian law places the drafting and authentication of the purchase and sale agreement (adásvételi szerződés) firmly with a bar-registered lawyer. The attorney then submits the signed contract to the land registry (Földhivatal) on behalf of the buyer.

The notary’s role in a standard residential transaction is narrower than many foreign buyers expect. A notary (közjegyző) is required primarily when one party is a company, when a mortgage deed needs to be notarised, or when the parties want a notarial deed that carries immediate enforceability. For a straightforward private-to-private apartment sale in Budapest — say, a 60 m² flat in the 7th or 13th district — the notary’s involvement is limited to countersigning the land registry application form, which carries a small statutory fee.

Understanding this split matters for budgeting. The lawyer’s fee is the main variable cost. The notary fee is largely fixed and modest. Conflating the two, or assuming Budapest follows a French or Spanish model where notaries dominate the process, leads to either over-budgeting or, worse, being caught off-guard.

Typical lawyer fees in Budapest: what to expect in 2026

The market rate for a Budapest property lawyer sits between 0.5% and 1% of the agreed purchase price, with most established practices charging 0.8%–1% for foreign buyers who need additional due diligence and English-language communication. On a HUF 60 million apartment (roughly €150,000 at mid-2026 rates), that translates to HUF 480,000–600,000. On a HUF 120 million flat in the 5th district, expect HUF 960,000–1,200,000.

Lawyers almost always set a minimum fee regardless of percentage. For a straightforward transaction, minimums in Budapest currently start around HUF 150,000–200,000. This protects the lawyer on low-value properties — a studio in Kőbánya priced at HUF 25 million would otherwise generate a fee too small to cover the work involved. Some firms charge a flat fee for simple transactions rather than a percentage; this is worth asking about if your purchase is uncomplicated.

What the lawyer’s fee covers: drafting the preliminary agreement (előszerződés) if used, drafting the final purchase and sale agreement, conducting title searches on the tulajdoni lap, checking for encumbrances or liens, managing the escrow of the purchase price through their client account, and submitting the land registry application. For foreign buyers, many Budapest lawyers also provide English translations of key documents, though some charge extra for this.

Notary fees: what they cover and what they cost

In a standard Budapest apartment purchase between two private individuals, the notary’s role is limited and the cost is low. The land registry application (bejegyzési kérelem) must be countersigned by either the buyer’s lawyer or a notary; since the lawyer already handles this, a separate notary is not needed for the conveyance itself. The statutory countersignature fee, set by government decree, is currently in the range of HUF 12,000–15,000 and is typically absorbed into the lawyer’s overall invoice.

Notary involvement becomes more significant — and more expensive — in three scenarios. First, if the buyer is purchasing through a Hungarian company (Kft.), the articles of association and any shareholder resolutions may need notarial authentication. Second, if the purchase is financed by a Hungarian mortgage, the bank will require a notarial deed (közokirat) for the mortgage contract; this fee is charged by the notary directly and typically runs HUF 50,000–150,000 depending on the loan size. Third, if the seller is elderly or the parties want the contract to carry immediate enforceability without a court judgment, a full notarial deed of sale can be used — this is rare in residential transactions but does happen.

Foreign buyers using a Hungarian company structure for tax-efficient property ownership should budget for notary costs on top of standard lawyer fees, since company-related documentation almost always requires notarial authentication. The total notary cost in that scenario can reach HUF 80,000–200,000 depending on complexity.

Buyer vs. seller: who pays what

Hungarian practice is clear: the buyer pays the lawyer who drafts the contract. This is because the drafting lawyer represents the buyer’s interests and submits the land registry application in the buyer’s name. The seller does not typically contribute to the buyer’s legal costs, though nothing in Hungarian law prevents the parties from agreeing otherwise.

The seller, however, has their own costs. They are responsible for obtaining an energy performance certificate (energetikai tanúsítvány) before the sale, which costs HUF 20,000–60,000 depending on property size. If the seller has their own lawyer review the contract — which is advisable but not legally required — they pay that lawyer separately. Sellers also bear the costs of any outstanding utility settlements and, if applicable, capital gains tax (személyi jövedelemadó on the gain).

One area of genuine negotiation: the preliminary agreement (előszerződés). If the parties use one, the question of who pays for its drafting is sometimes split. In practice, the buyer’s lawyer drafts it and the buyer pays, but on higher-value transactions or developer sales, the cost allocation can be discussed. For a broader picture of what buying in Budapest actually costs end-to-end, the Buying Guide Budapest articles cover stamp duty, VAT on new builds, and other transaction taxes in detail.

Other professional costs that sit alongside legal fees

Legal fees do not exist in isolation. Buyers budgeting for a Budapest apartment purchase need to account for several other professional costs that are separate from lawyer and notary charges.

• Property transfer tax (vagyonátruházási illeték): 4% of the purchase price for most buyers. This is a government tax, not a professional fee, but it is the single largest transaction cost and is paid by the buyer. First-time buyers and certain other categories may qualify for exemptions or reductions under Hungarian tax law.
• Land registry fee: A fixed administrative fee payable to the Földhivatal for registering the ownership change. Currently HUF 6,600 for standard registration.
• Title search (tulajdoni lap lekérés): Your lawyer will pull the official title extract. The fee is a few thousand forints and is usually included in the lawyer’s overall charge.
• Surveyor or structural inspection: Not legally required but strongly recommended for older Budapest stock — particularly pre-war buildings in districts 5, 6, 7, and 8. Independent surveyors charge HUF 50,000–150,000 depending on property size.
• Agency commission: If you use a real estate agency, commission is typically paid by the seller in Hungary, though some agencies charge both sides. Check the terms before signing any agency agreement.

Property transfer tax at 4% of the purchase price is almost always the largest single transaction cost for a Budapest buyer — it dwarfs legal fees and should be the first line in any budget spreadsheet.

For buyers considering investment properties and wanting to understand the full cost structure before committing, the Why invest in Budapest page provides context on how transaction costs compare to net yields in the current market.

How to choose a property lawyer in Budapest

The Hungarian Bar Association (Magyar Ügyvédi Kamara) maintains a public register of licensed attorneys. Any lawyer you engage should be verifiable on that register. For foreign buyers, the practical shortlist criteria are: bar registration, experience specifically in real estate transactions (not just general civil law), English-language capability, and a clear written fee agreement upfront.

Referrals from a trusted local agent remain the most reliable route. A reputable Budapest real estate agency will have working relationships with several independent property lawyers and can make introductions — while making clear that the lawyer works for the buyer, not the agency. Be cautious of any arrangement where the lawyer is employed by or financially tied to the seller or developer.

For buyers using a mortgage, check whether your chosen lawyer has experience with the specific bank’s documentation requirements. Hungarian banks — OTP, K&H, Erste, Raiffeisen — each have their own mortgage deed formats, and a lawyer unfamiliar with a particular bank’s process can slow the transaction significantly. The safe property purchase legal service we offer coordinates lawyer introductions, title checks, and contract review as part of a structured buying process.

Comparison table: sample fee scenarios by purchase price

The table below shows realistic fee ranges for different Budapest apartment price points in 2026. All figures are approximate and assume a straightforward private-to-private transaction with no mortgage and no company structure. Lawyer fees shown at 0.8% and 1% to illustrate the range.

Purchase price (HUF)	Approx. EUR equivalent	Lawyer fee @ 0.8%	Lawyer fee @ 1%	Notary countersign	Transfer tax @ 4%
25,000,000	~€62,000	200,000 (min.)	250,000	~13,000	1,000,000
50,000,000	~€124,000	400,000	500,000	~13,000	2,000,000
80,000,000	~€198,000	640,000	800,000	~13,000	3,200,000
120,000,000	~€297,000	960,000	1,200,000	~15,000	4,800,000
200,000,000	~€495,000	1,600,000	2,000,000	~15,000	8,000,000

All HUF figures rounded to nearest 1,000. EUR equivalents use an indicative rate and will vary. Transfer tax figures assume no exemptions apply. For properties purchased through a company, add notarial deed costs of HUF 80,000–200,000. For mortgage-financed purchases, add the bank’s mortgage deed notarisation fee.

If you are ready to start comparing properties against these cost benchmarks, the current properties for sale in Budapest listings include price-per-square-metre data that makes it straightforward to run your own numbers.

Frequently asked questions

Is a lawyer legally required when buying a Budapest apartment?

Yes. Hungarian law requires that the purchase and sale agreement for any real property be drafted and countersigned by a licensed Hungarian attorney (ügyvéd) registered with the Magyar Ügyvédi Kamara. Without this, the land registry will not process the ownership transfer. There is no way to complete a legal property purchase in Hungary without an attorney.

Can I use a foreign lawyer instead of a Hungarian one?

No. Only a lawyer admitted to the Hungarian Bar can draft and countersign the purchase contract and submit the land registry application. A foreign lawyer can advise you on cross-border tax or structuring issues, but they cannot replace the Hungarian attorney for the conveyance itself. Many Hungarian property lawyers in Budapest speak English and are experienced with international clients.

Are lawyer fees for buying property in Budapest tax-deductible?

For private buyers, legal fees paid on a residential purchase are not deductible against Hungarian personal income tax. However, if you purchase through a Hungarian company (Kft.) and the property is used for business purposes, legal and professional fees may be deductible as business costs. Consult a Hungarian tax adviser for your specific situation, as rules change and individual circumstances vary.

What is the difference between a Hungarian ügyvéd and a közjegyző?

An ügyvéd is a bar-registered attorney who drafts and authenticates the purchase contract and represents your interests in the transaction. A közjegyző (notary) is a state-appointed official who authenticates documents and creates notarial deeds with immediate enforceability. In a standard Budapest apartment purchase, the ügyvéd handles everything; the közjegyző is only required for specific documents such as mortgage deeds or company-related paperwork.

How long does the land registry process take after the lawyer submits the application?

Standard land registry processing in Hungary currently takes 30–90 days from submission of the application. An expedited procedure (soron kívüli eljárás) is available for an additional fee and can reduce this to a few days, though it is not always necessary. Your lawyer will receive confirmation of the application submission, which is sufficient for most practical purposes while waiting for final registration.

Can lawyer fees be negotiated, and is it worth trying?

Yes, fees are negotiable, particularly for straightforward transactions or if you are buying multiple properties. However, very low fees can be a signal that the lawyer is cutting corners on due diligence or is inexperienced. A fee at the lower end of the 0.5%–0.8% range from a reputable, experienced Budapest property lawyer is a reasonable outcome. Prioritise competence and clear communication over the cheapest quote.

Do I need a separate lawyer if I am also taking out a Hungarian mortgage?

Not necessarily a separate lawyer, but the same lawyer will need to prepare additional documentation for the bank. The mortgage deed (jelzálogszerződés) must be notarised, which adds a separate notary fee. Some buyers use one lawyer for the purchase contract and the bank assigns its own notary for the mortgage deed. Clarify this with your bank and your lawyer early in the process to avoid duplication of fees.

What happens to the purchase price while the land registry processes the transfer?

In standard Budapest practice, the purchase price is held in the buyer’s lawyer’s escrow account (letéti számla) after the contract is signed. The funds are released to the seller only after the land registry application has been submitted and the acknowledgement receipt (széljegy) confirms the buyer’s ownership claim is recorded. This protects both parties and is the norm for all properly structured transactions.

Sources

• Act LXXXIX of 1991 on Stamp Duties (illetéktörvény) — Hungarian Legal Database (Jogtár)
• Magyar Ügyvédi Kamara (Hungarian Bar Association) — attorney register and professional rules
• Földhivatal — Hungarian Land Registry (National Land Centre)
• Act VI of 1993 on Notaries (közjegyzői törvény) — Hungarian Legal Database