Hungary

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.  

• Dial 107 for the police.
• Dial 104 for ambulance services.
• Dial 105 for the fire department.
• Dial 112 for English-speaking emergency responders (all types of emergencies).

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Commercial flights
• Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations, mostly in Budapest, are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. Demonstrations must be registered and approved by local authorities.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Authorities will use riot police to break up unregistered events, control crowds, and respond to acts of violence.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• On March 18, 2025, the Hungarian Parliament passed a law prohibiting public events that do not follow the Child Protection Act. The rule restricts events that support sex change, or homosexuality. The law allows use of facial imagine analysis to identify and fine participants. If people don’t identify themselves, facial recognition software may do so. Participants may be fined up to 500 EUR.

Crime

Hungary is generally a safe place to visit. However, use caution and stay alert in crowded tourist areas, train stations, buses, trams, and metros.

• Passports, cash, and credit cards are prime targets for thieves.
• The U.S. embassy often gets reports of pickpocketing on the trains between Budapest, Vienna, Prague, and Bratislava. Watch your belongings when traveling these routes.
• In Budapest, some U.S. citizens have been overcharged for food, drinks, or taxi services. Always check the price before buying anything.
• Though rare, there have been cases of U.S. citizens being unknowingly drugged. Do not accept food or drinks from anyone except a server. Keep an eye on your items and avoid leaving beverages unattended.
• The U.S. embassy has received reports of assaults motivated by race, ethnicity, or religion. Over the past year, violent crimes have been reported in high-tourist areas like Budapest’s Ruin Bar District.
• Please report all crimes to the local police. In an emergency dial 112 for help and contact the U.S. embassy.

Safety tips:

• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not walk alone at night.
• Ensure your cell phone is sufficiently charged to make emergency calls.
• Be vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Before using an ATM, check the online reviews to learn about any possible issues with the location or the machine’s fees.
• Stay alert in crowded tourist locations.
• Always keep your belongings secure.
• Do not accept food or drinks from anyone except a server.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams/Internet romance scams are common in Hungary. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Hungary:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dailing 112.

Review our information on Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.  
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. English speaking responders are available.

• Dial 112 if you are in immediate danger or during an ongoing emergency.
• If you are unable to speak, there is an emergency app called 112 SOS. It allows you to send a text message in English.

Helpful resources:

• Learn how to report domestic abuse.
• Find free confidential support from Van Segitseg for domestic abuse.
• Dial +361-550-1636 for English speaking assistants.
• Dial 36-40-630-006 to contact the Framework Coalition’s sexual violence helpline. They are available Monday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Dial +36-80-505-101 for the helpline for abused women and children, or victims of sexual violence.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad. Scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

• Drones are legal in Hungary, but strict rules apply. This is especially true in controlled areas, including near government buildings or airports. Flying drones near these areas may be restricted or prohibited. 
• You must comply with flight rules, register your drone, report flights, obtain permissions, and follow airspace restrictions.

GPS

Using GPS for personal navigation is legal and common for tourists and residents.  However, there are restrictions on GPS tracking at work. Advanced surveillance tech used by law enforcement must follow EU and national data protection laws. 

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated.

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Since 2021, all facilities offering tourist accommodation must use the VIZA system. This includes hostels and AirBnbs. Tourists’ personal data, like passport bio data, must be entered into the VIZA system securely. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Hungary seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
• Always carry your passport with you in Hungary. Local police may ask you to show documentation to prove your identity. Hungarian police may take you into custody if you try to prove your identity with documents other than a passport.
• Hungary has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties are severe, including significant jail time.
• Hungary also has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drug use including marijuana.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Detention conditions

• Hungary has made efforts to align its detention practices with international standards, However, there are still concerns regarding overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and treatment of detainees.
• A defendant’s situation can worsen due to long proceedings and limited access to documents.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report
• Human Rights Report

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations, or the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation.
• However, gay and lesbian participants in public demonstrations have faced arrest, fines, and harassment. Police are allowed to use facial recognition technology to identify participants.
• Gay and lesbian travelers will find Budapest generally welcoming. However, public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, especially outside the capital. 
• Budapest offers a vibrant gay and lesbian scene with specific bars and clubs. People are generally more tolerant, but this is less common in rural areas. 
• Legal rights for gay and lesbian people exist, including anti-discrimination laws and registered partnerships. However, same-sex marriage remains banned, and same-sex couples do not have all the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Hungary prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as common as in the United States.
• The most common types of accessibility issues may include facilities and ease of movement. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure.
• There can be a significant difference in accessibility between Budapest and the rest of the country.
• The government's push for social inclusion of people with disabilities has brought new laws, national strategies, and European Union (EU) funding. But progress has faced setbacks. There’s still heavy reliance on institutional care, inadequate implementation of rights-based principles, and ongoing societal stigma. 
• In Budapest, the perception of disability is more aligned with Western Europe. You will likely receive a helpful and modern response. In smaller towns and rural regions, traditional views may persist. Both social acceptance and physical accessibility will be more limited. 
• To plan an accessible journey using the BudapestGO website or app, use the route planner and select the "wheelchair" or "barrier-free" option in the settings or preferences. You can find low-floor vehicles and routes suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Students

• International students must apply for a D-Type student visa before traveling. They must gather documents like a valid passport, university acceptance letter, proof of funds, and health insurance. They must submit these documents to the nearest Hungarian embassy. 
• Once in Hungary, students receive a residence permit. They are expected to  adapt culturally, learn basic Hungarian, explore local traditions, and respect social norms. 
• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women Travelers

• Hungary is a safe and welcoming country for women travelers. Follow general common-sense precautions.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. Find the specific page on CDCs website and update the embedded link to the correct one for your destination.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

For emergency services in Hungary dial:

• Dial 104 for ambulance services.
• Dial 107 for the police.
• Dial 105 for the fire department.
• Dial 112 for emergencies. English speakers are available.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

• Some ambulances may not have updated medical equipment.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Credit card payment is not always available. Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Everyone is entitled to free emergency care, including tourists. However, expect to receive a bill later.
• For non-emergency care, you must pay for services out-of-pocket or through your own private insurance plan. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available throughout Hungary. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. A family member can usually stay the night with a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Private hospital-based care is limited to elective and uncomplicated cases. There are no private emergency rooms or intensive care units.
• Advanced medical care is only available through government institutions. Specialty care is limited on holidays, weekends, and after hours to certain facilities.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the OGYÉI Department of Narcotics to ensure the medication is legal in Hungary.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Many pharmaceuticals must be prescribed and controlled medicines are highly regulated, with requirements that a specialist must prescribe.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Hungary does not allow the importation of cannabis. There are rules about bringing narcotics and psychiatric medicines into the country.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is illegal in Hungary.
• If you are considering traveling to Hungary to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. However, lead plumbing materials still exist and may contaminate the water, especially in older buildings.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Hungary.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention's Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

• Drivers may show impatience, abrupt lane changes, or overtaking behavior. This is more common on busy roads or near Budapest.
• In cities like Budapest, there are many cyclists. You should expect bike lanes and shared traffic. Stay alert.
• Roads in Hungary have good infrastructure and signage. 
• Road signs are regulated under the national road-traffic code (KRESZ). 

Be aware of dangerous roads

The following roads have heavy traffic volumes. Some have environmental risks and low visibility causing many deaths. Some sections of these roads may not be safe at night due to poor lighting:

• The M1 motorway, connecting Budapest to the Austrian border.
• The M5 motorway, Budapest toward Szeged and Serbia.
• The national route Main Road 4 from Budapest eastwards toward the Ukrainian border.

Weather and seasonal concerns

Winter ice and snow can make roads more dangerous. Winter tires are not legally required but recommended.

• Dust storms, heavy fog, or ice can make motorways dangerous.
• Traffic pileups can be triggered by dustclouds.
• In colder months, rural roads can be slippery. They may lack frequent maintenance compared to major motorways.

Safety tips

• If you must drive at night, plan your route carefully.
• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and avoid rural backroads that may be poorly lit or maintained.
• Reduce your speed when there is snow, ice, or reduced visibility. Keep a safe following distance. Use low beam or regular headlights and consider avoiding motorways until conditions improve.
• Avoid heavy transit routes if possible during peak holiday traffic or known congested periods. Accidents may cause large delays and complications.
• Ensure your fuel tank is full, especially if the route includes long stretches outside major cities. Consider carrying extra fuel if you plan to travel on rural roads or late at night. Fuel stations may be less common on remote roads.
• Follow speed limits.
• If breakdown happens, move your vehicle off the road, if possible. Put on hazard lights. Wear a reflective vest before exiting your vehicle.
• Drive defensively. Assume other drivers may drive aggressively.
• Familiarize yourself with local rules. If you are pulled over, and you feel something is off, ask for a formal paper citation and do not pay bribes.

Roadside assistance

Roadside assistance services exist throughout Hungary.

• Dial 188 for help from a mobile phone.
• Dial +36-1-345-1601 from any phone for Magyar Autóklub, one of Hungary’s largest automotive civic organizations.
• Dial 198 or +36-80-630-800 for the Tourinform hotline within Hungary.

Company services (private roadside assistance):

• Dial +36-1-710-1130 for Allianz Hungária. 
• Dial +36-1-483-3333 for Ayvens Hungary. 

What to do in case of an accident

If you are involved in an accident in Hungary:

• Switch on hazard lights. Place a warning triangle, wear a reflective vest, and call emergency services.
• Dial 112 for emergencies or 104 for ambulance services.
• Dial 105 for the fire brigade
• Dial 107 for the local police.
• Exchange driver information and collect witness details if possible.
• Photograph the scene including vehicles, damage, license plates, road and signage. Complete the Europe-wide accident report form.
• If the accident involves injury, death or a hit-and-run, you must call the police and stay at the scene. Leaving the scene can lead to criminal liability.
• For insurance claims, report to your insurer within their deadlines.
• In the event of a major crash, authorities clear traffic. Rescue vehicles are given priority.
• If you are a passerby, stop if it is safe. You may help by calling emergency services and providing witness information if needed. Keep a safe distance.

Traffic laws

If you’re a visitor on a short-term stay, you are allowed to drive with a U.S. driver’s license. You must have an official translation of your license or an International Driving License.

• For stays over 1 year, you must get a Hungarian driver’s license.
• Carry your registration, proof of third-party liability insurance, and driver’s license. Hungarian authorities may request identity verification.
• A mandatory electronic toll payment (e-vignette) is required for driving on motorways, highways, and expressways. It is a digital registration linked to your license plate, available for daily, 10-day, monthly, or annual periods to cover tolls, with fines for failure to purchase one beforehand. It is enforced via camera systems and often detected without stopping you.
• Seatbelts are mandatory.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• Traffic offenses carry heavy fines that can total over $800.
• There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. You may face penalties for any detectable alcohol level.
• In case of a traffic jam caused by an accident, you must allow access to rescue vehicles. Pull off to the edge of the lane.
• Use of low beams is required outside metropolitan areas and during daytime for some situations.
• By law, drivers must carry a warning triangle, reflective vest, and first-aid kit.
• Carry spare tires in case of an emergency.
• Carry your rental car paperwork showing you’re authorized to drive the vehicle, especially if borrowing or sharing a car.

Taxis and ride-shares

• App-based taxis and ride-shares such as Bolt are widely used in Budapest. These are considered reliable.
• The Uber app has returned to Budapest in partnership with a licensed taxi company, Főtaxi. It can also be used to book taxis.
• Reputable taxi companies such as Főtaxi, City Taxi, and 6×6, as well as ridesharing app-platforms, provide transparent fares. This reduces many safety risks.
• Hailing taxis on the street is risky. In tourist zones, like near train stations, airports, or nightlife districts, you may find drivers working without proper licensing. They may overcharge you, have rigged meters, or take longer routes.
• Even when using ride-share apps, it’s wise to check that everything lines up. Review the car plate, company name, and fare estimate.
• Some users report issues even with “official” apps when a driver manually overcharges or takes a detour. 
• Outside major cities, ride-shares and official taxis may be less common. You may have less choices and more risk of “freelance” drivers without the protections that ride-sharing apps sometimes offer.

Public and commercial transportation

• The metro, trams, and buses in Budapest are reasonably safe. They are widely used.
• There are many CCTV cameras on many vehicles.
• On certain bus and trolley lines in Budapest, there is a “front-door boarding only” rule. It is enforced to reduce fare-evasion and disorder.
• Passengers on some tram and bus lines have reported discomfort because of disruptive behavior on crowded lines at night. This includes reports of people begging, intoxicated, as well as aggressive panhandling in tram lines 1, 4, 6.
• Pickpocketing and pretty crimes are common in crowded metros, trains and at major stations. Keep your belongings close, especially smartphones and wallets.
• Visit the website of Hungary’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Hungary’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather conditions

• Following a historic drought in 2022 that cost the agricultural sector $2.86 billion, the country has faced continued dry conditions in 2024 and 2025.
• Persistent droughts have led to significantly reduced crop yields (especially corn, sunflower, and grain) and caused the soil to become "critically dry".
• Rivers like the Danube and Tisza have reached record low levels, with some, failing to provide the typical spring flood necessary to replenish the landscape.
• In response to the crisis, the Hungarian government created a "drought task force" and is investing in water retention, such as redirecting water from thermal spas to flood low-lying fields. Without improved water management, the country faces a long-term, severe water shortage.

Living abroad resources

 If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.