Hungary
Location: Central Europe
Broadcast Regulators
Currencies
Q. Are there any requirements, when sending HUF?
A. Just your details, the beneficiary details and the purpose of the payment.
Q. Can I send inbound and outbound payments?
A. Yes, there are no restrictions on sending money into or outside of Hungary.
Q. How much can I send?
A. There are no limits. But it is important to note that HUF does not have cents, therefore payments must be sent in whole numbers.
Q. How long will it take for my funds to be received?
A. Standard international payment times. However, with the right foreign exchange broker, this can be done as fast as the same day.
Q. Who can I send HUF to?
A. Both individuals and businesses can receive funds.
Q. Is sending HUF expensive?
A. Not if you use the right currency broker, who will be able to offer you bank-beating exchange rates and significantly lower payment charges.
Q. Can you use forward contracts with HUF?
A. Yes. With the right currency broker, you can book a HUF exchange rate forward, protecting you against any adverse currency movements. With these contracts, you will always know exactly what is coming out of your bank account.
Information courtesy of Currencies Direct.
Film Commissions
European Film Commissions Network (a non-profit association, which supports and promotes the European film industry and culture)
Visas & Permits
Visas & Work Permits
Hungary is a member of the Schengen area.
UK passport holders can enter Hungary visa-free for stays of up to 90 days, over a 180 day period, for some business-related activities (such as attending business meetings). However, for longer stays or other types of work, a visa or permit may be required.
Further information on work visas can be found at the GOV.UK website. Alternatively, please contact a local embassy, consulate or representative for more information. There are also specialist companies that provide visa and immigration support to the media industry, and may be able to assist.
Film Location Permits
Most locations only take a few days to permit. Permission is required from each municipality and, in some cases, the specific location (markets, parks, castle district, etc.). For larger shoots, it officially takes three weeks to close streets but this can be fast-tracked, if necessary.
Customs
For productions looking to bring in film equipment, Hungary is an ATA carnet country.
When to Film
When to Film
Hungary has a typical four season climate, with warm summers (June to September), colourful leaves in autumn (October to November), white winters (December to March) and spring (April to May) in full bloom. Weather-wise, May to September are the best months to film.
In Hungary, Christianity is the largest religion, so those holidays are observed.
Public Holidays
Public holidays may affect timing, availability and costs. See here for public holiday dates in Hungary.
Costs & VAT
Although prices have increased in recent years, Hungary still offers high production value.
Production standards are very high and is only a fraction of the cost of shooting in Western Europe or the US. Compared to other countries in the region, Hungary is roughly on par with the Czech Republic, but more expensive than Romania, Latvia and Ukraine.
The standard VAT rate in Hungary, at the time of writing, is set at 27%.
Funding & Tax Incentives
National Film Institute (NFI)
Europe-Wide Funding
European Commission's Interactive Funding Tool
Tax Incentives
Tax incentives for Hungary