How to open a company in Hungary in 2025: step-by-step

1. Choose the Right Company Type

The most common legal form for foreign entrepreneurs is the Kft (Korlátolt Felelősségű Társaság), similar to a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

  • Minimum share capital: €3,000 (can be contributed in cash or assets).

  • Shareholders: at least one (can be foreign).

  • Liability: limited to the value of contributions.

For larger operations, you may also consider a Zrt (Private Limited Company), which has higher capital requirements but more flexible shareholder structures.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

To register a company, you’ll typically need:

  • Valid passport or EU ID card.

  • Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement).

  • Proposed company name (3 alternatives recommended).

  • Articles of Association (prepared by a Hungarian lawyer).

  • Details of shareholders and directors.

Tip: If you register remotely, you will need a notarized and apostilled Power of Attorney (POA).

3. Register the Company

A Hungarian lawyer must submit your incorporation documents to the Court of Registration. This includes:

  • Articles of Association.

  • Specimen signatures.

  • Proof of payment of the company registration tax.

  • Application for a tax number and EU VAT number (if applicable).

✅ Average timeline: 3–5 business days once all documents are ready.

4. Obtain a Registered Address

Every company in Hungary must have a seat address. This can be:

  • Your own office/property in Hungary.

  • A virtual office service provider who offers mail forwarding and compliance notifications.

5. Register for the Client Gate (Ügyfélkapu)

The Client Gate is Hungary’s electronic administration system. It is mandatory for company directors and accountants to manage filings and official communication.

  • Registration is done in person at the public records office.

  • Your service provider (like HUNIQ TAX) can guide you through this step.

6. Open a Bank Account

You’ll need a Hungarian business bank account to operate locally.

  • Some banks require in-person visits.

  • Alternatives include fintechs (Wise, Revolut Business) offering IBAN accounts suitable for EU operations.

7. Appoint an Accountant

Hungarian law requires every company to have a licensed accountant from day one.

  • Accountants handle VAT returns, bookkeeping, payroll, and annual reports.

  • Costs vary, but expect €150–€300/month for small businesses.

8. Ensure Compliance with Local Regulations

  • File annual returns on time.

  • Keep payroll records if hiring employees.

  • Maintain GDPR compliance when handling customer data.

  • Submit Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) registry filings.

9. Typical Timeline & Costs

  • Timeline: 4–7 business days (if all documents are ready).

  • Initial costs:

    • Company registration fees & legal: €1,500–€2,000.

    • Registered office: €200–€400/year.

    • Accounting: €150–€300/month.

10. How HUNIQ TAX Can Help

Setting up a company in a foreign country can be complex, but you don’t need to go through it alone. At HUNIQ TAX, we provide:

  • Fixed-fee packages (Essential, Standard, Accounting+) with no hidden costs.

  • End-to-end support: from registration and bank introductions to accounting and payroll.

  • Multilingual assistance in English, Spanish, and Hungarian.

  • Remote options for non-residents.

📞 Ready to start your Hungarian company? Book a free call today →

Hungary is one of the most attractive destinations in the European Union for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their business. With a corporate tax rate of just 9%—the lowest in the EU—fast incorporation, and full access to the European single market, Hungary offers significant benefits for international founders.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of opening a company in Hungary in 2025, step by step.

You may also be interested in...