ETIAS Hungary Guide: A Step-by-Step Application for British Citizens

Planning a trip to Hungary? For British citizens, post-Brexit travel rules are changing. From late 2026, you’ll need an ETIAS travel authorisation for short stays in the European Union and other Schengen member states.

This guide explains the simple steps to apply before you travel.

Essential ETIAS Hungary Requirements for British Travellers

Before you start your ETIAS application, you need to confirm it’s required for your trip and gather the correct documents. This section clarifies who needs the authorisation and lists exactly what you’ll need to provide during the application process.

Do You Need an ETIAS for Hungary?

If you’re a citizen of the United Kingdom planning a short stay in Hungary, you almost certainly need an ETIAS travel authorisation. 

This requirement applies to all UK passport holders for tourism, business, or family visits under the visa-free 90-day rule.

You do not need an ETIAS if you hold a valid Hungarian or Schengen Area residence permit. Those with a valid Schengen visa for their trip are also exempt from the separate ETIAS requirement.

What You’ll Need to Apply for ETIAS

You must have a specific set of items ready to complete your ETIAS application form smoothly. Having these prepared will make the online application process quick and straightforward. 

Your essential checklist includes:

• A valid UK biometric passport.
• A current email address for correspondence.
• A debit or credit card to pay the application fee.
• Your travel plans, specifically the address of your first overnight stay in the Schengen Area.

The core document and fee requirements are summarised in the table below.

Remember, your ETIAS is linked to your specific travel document number. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System will check your details against security databases. 

This is a standard part of the visa waiver programme for visa-free travel to member states like Hungary.

The Step-by-Step ETIAS Application Process

Applying for your ETIAS authorisation is a straightforward online process. You can complete it in a few minutes by following these clear stages.

Step 1: Access the Official ETIAS Website

You must apply through the official ETIAS website or its dedicated mobile app. This is the same portal used by visa-free nationals from countries like Australia and Canada.

The official platform is secure and designed for direct use by travellers. It ensures your personal data is handled according to EU standards.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

You will need to fill in several sections with your personal and travel details. Accuracy is critical here to prevent delays or issues at border control.

The main sections you’ll complete are:

• Personal data (name, date of birth, nationality)
• Passport details
• Contact information
• Education and current occupation
• Travel plans, including your first point of entry

You must also answer a set of security and health-related questions truthfully. Your data helps border security officials verify you meet all entry requirements before you travel to EU countries like France or Austria.

Step 3: Review, Pay and Submit

Before payment, you must carefully review every detail on your application form. A single mistake could see you refused by border guards later.

After verifying your information, you will pay the €20 fee using a debit or credit card. A confirmation email with your unique application number will be sent immediately upon submission.

The table below outlines the three core actions in this phase.

This process is separate from the Entry-Exit System (EES), which records your physical border crossings. Your ETIAS application checks your eligibility to travel before you even book your flight. EU citizens do not need to go through this process.

After Submission: Processing, Decision and Next Steps

Once you submit your application, the system automatically processes it. You will receive an official decision by email, which dictates your next move.

ETIAS Processing Time and Decision

Most applicants get their decision within minutes. You should apply at least a few weeks before travel, not at the last minute.

If the system flags your application for manual checks, a decision can take up to 30 days. You might be asked for extra information or an interview during this extended period.

If Your ETIAS is Approved

Your approved ETIAS authorisation will arrive as a PDF attached to an email. It is electronically linked to your passport number, so you do not need a physical stamp or printout, though carrying one is wise.

You can use this valid ETIAS for short-term stays across all participating Schengen countries, from Spain to Italy. Remember, it is your passport that border guards will scan to see your status.

If Your ETIAS is Denied

An application can be refused for several specific reasons. Common issues include a passport reported as lost or stolen, or a flagged security or health risk.

The refusal email will state the reason and explain your right to appeal. You must appeal to the authorities of the EU member state that made the refusal decision.

The table below shows what happens after you apply.

The European Commission provides detailed FAQs if you need more guidance. Note that family members of EU citizens from visa-exempt countries have different rules, which you can check in the dedicated FAQ section.

Important ETIAS Rules for Your Trip to Hungary

Understanding the core rules of your ETIAS authorisation is key for a smooth trip. These rules govern how long you can stay and what to do if your circumstances change.

ETIAS Validity and the “90/180-Day Rule”

Your ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires. This allows for multiple trips during its validity period.

The main travel requirement is the “90/180-day rule.” You cannot spend more than 90 days within any 180-day period inside the Schengen zone.

This rule applies across all countries using ETIAS. Time spent in Romania or Slovenia counts towards the same 90-day total as your stay to visit Hungary.

What to Do if Your Situation Changes

You must get a new ETIAS if you renew or replace your passport. The authorisation is linked to a specific document number and does not transfer.

The same rule applies if you change your name and get a new passport. You cannot use your old authorisation with the new travel document.

Report a lost or stolen passport immediately to the local police in Hungary. You will also need to contact the UK embassy for an emergency travel document.

Here is a quick guide for common changes.

Remember, your ETIAS is valid for travel to all participating countries like Switzerland. Always check your passport expiry date against your travel plans.

Smooth Sailing from the UK to Hungary with ETIAS

Getting your ETIAS for Hungary involves checking your eligibility, preparing your documents, and applying online early. For most UK travellers, this is a quick and automated step. 

Bookmark the official EU travel site for the latest updates ahead of the 2026 launch, then look forward to exploring Budapest, Tokaj, and beyond.