While Portugal and Greece tighten their rules, Hungary has opened the floodgates. [cite_start]The GIP is designed for the "Paper Resident"—investors who want full Schengen access and a long-term safety net without living in the country[cite: 464].
The "Risk-Free" Entry: Unlike other Golden Visas where you must invest *before* approval, Hungary allows a "Pledge" system. Your lawyers vet the fund, you receive approval in principle, and *then* you deploy the €250,000 capital. [cite_start]If the visa is denied, you pay nothing[cite: 456, 491].
[cite_start]Non-Dom Status: Residency in Hungary does not automatically trigger tax residency unless you spend >183 days there[cite: 474]. You can hold the card as a "Paper Asset" for travel while maintaining tax domicile in a zero-tax jurisdiction like Dubai.
[cite_start]Flat Tax: If you do choose to live there, personal income tax is a flat 15%, which is highly competitive within the EU[cite: 453].
| Visa Class | Guest Investor (GIP) |
| Min Investment | €250,000 (Fund) |
| Validity | 10 Years |
| Tax Regime | 15% Flat / Non-Dom |
| Citizenship Path | 8 Years (Difficult) |