🛂 Visa comparison
Hungary vs Malta digital nomad visa
Two of the nomad visas Americans compare most, side by side: what each asks for, how long it lasts, where it leads, and what life costs in each country.
The short version
- Malta's income bar is lower: about $3,102 a month vs $3,447.
- Life is cheaper in Hungary: from $1,770 a month all-in in Budapest, vs $2,370 in Valletta.
- Lighter tax once resident in Malta (friendly vs moderate).
Side by side
| Measure | 🇭🇺 Hungary | 🇲🇹 Malta |
|---|---|---|
| 🛂 Visa | White Card | Nomad Residence Permit |
| 💵 Income needed | €3,000/mo (last 6 months) | €2,700/mo (~€32,400/yr) |
| ≈ In US dollars | $3,447/mo | $3,102/mo |
| 💳 Fees | ~€110 | €300 |
| ⏳ Length | 1 yr | 1 yr |
| 🔁 Renewal | Yes, +1 yr (2 yrs max) | Yes, up to 4 yrs total |
| 🏠 Path to residency | No, White Card years don't count toward PR | Nomad permit years don't count toward PR |
| 🧾 Tax once resident | 🟡 Moderate · Worldwide income, top 15% | 🟢 Friendly · Foreign income only if brought in, top 35% |
| 🗓️ Visa-free visit first | 90 days | 90 days |
| 💰 Cheapest city, all-in | $1,770 · Budapest | $2,370 · Valletta |
General reference, not immigration or tax advice. Income figures in US dollars are converted at current rates from each visa's own requirement; confirm with the consulate before applying.