How to Rent an Apartment in Budapest as a Foreigner: A Step-by-Step Guide

Renting an apartment in Budapest as a foreigner works the same way as it does for locals, but there are a few extra steps: because of the address registration and residence permit requirements, the lease agreement and the landlord’s declarations must be in order. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step.

Step 1: Decide what you're looking for

• Determine your monthly budget, including all costs: rent, common area fees, and utilities (see the article on security deposits, common area fees, and utilities).
• Think about the neighborhood and transportation: where you work or go to school, and how long it takes to get there by subway, tram, or bus.
• Make a list of what’s essential: whether it’s furnished, how many rooms, an elevator, a balcony, pets (see the article on pet-friendly rentals), and parking.
• If you're still abroad, it's a good idea to book temporary accommodations for the first few days, since looking for an apartment and signing a lease takes time.

Step 2: Look for an apartment and view it in person

• Browse our rental properties and schedule a viewing.
• If you're not in Budapest yet, ask for a video tour, but before making your final decision, try to view the apartment in person or with a trusted friend.
• Use the checklist when viewing a rental property, and be careful of scammers: don't transfer any money until you've seen the apartment and met the landlord.

Step 3: Prepare your documents

What the Landlord May Ask of You

• Passport or ID card (your name, date of birth, and address will be recorded in the contract).
• Contact Information: phone number, email address.
• Some landlords also request proof of income or a letter from an employer. This is not a legal requirement; it is at the landlord’s discretion.

What to Ask the Landlord

• A recent copy of the title deed (issued within the last 30 days) to verify who the owner is and whether there are any liens on the apartment.
• The landlord's identification information and, if the landlord is not the owner, a power of attorney.
• If the apartment is in a condominium, the house rules and information on average utility and common area fees.

Step 4: The Lease Agreement

• Ask for a written contract in Hungarian. If you don't speak Hungarian, ask for a bilingual (Hungarian and English) version, but you will generally need the Hungarian-language copy for dealing with government agencies.
• The contract should include: the parties’ details, the exact address and lot number of the apartment, the lease term, the rent and method of payment, the rules regarding utilities and common expenses, the amount of the security deposit and its refund, and the termination provisions.
• A contract has greater probative value if it is signed by two witnesses or countersigned by an attorney. This is very helpful in the event of a dispute.
• Ask the landlord to agree to your registration of residence in the lease agreement or to provide a separate statement. Without this, you won't be able to register your new address.
• Be sure to include everything that was discussed (furniture, repairs, pets).

Step 5: Security Deposit and First Month's Payment

• Typically, the first month's rent, the common area fee, and a security deposit equal to two months' rent are due upon moving in. The exact amount is specified in the lease agreement.
• Pay by bank transfer or upon receipt, and keep the receipt.
• Ask when and how the security deposit will be refunded, and what deductions may be made from it.

Step 6: Moving In

• Prepare a handover report with photos, listing the furnishings and any defects, and record the meter readings (electricity, gas, water, heating).
• Get all the keys, the house rules, the building manager's contact information, and instructions on how to report problems.
• Arrange to have the utilities transferred or set up in your name: electricity, gas, water, and internet—and, if the apartment is furnished, home insurance. Ask the landlord which utilities are currently in their name.
• Set up a recurring payment for rent or maintenance fees, and make a note of when they're due.

Step 7: Registration of Address and Residence

For EU citizens

• For stays longer than three months, you must report your address in Hungary on the Enter Hungary platform no later than the 93rd day after entry and request a registration certificate.
• To register, you generally need your passport or ID card and a lease agreement in Hungarian that includes the landlord’s information. If you are staying with someone as a guest, you will need a statement of accommodation from the homeowner.
• The registration certificate and residence card will be mailed to your registered address, so make sure your name on the mailbox is correct.

For non-EU citizens

• A residence permit requires proof of housing: for example, a lease agreement, proof of ownership, a statement of free use, or proof of reservation and payment. Other documents may also be required, depending on the specific type of permit.
• For non-EU citizens, the housing requirement is at least 6 m² of living space per person (the authorities may grant an exception in certain cases). If you’re moving in with others, be sure to calculate this during the viewing.
• The permit application process may take longer, so ask the landlord in advance if they are willing to provide the necessary statements and documents.
• If you change your address later, you must report it to the authorities. The deadline depends on the type of your residence permit; be sure to check this.

You can find the current, specific requirements on the official Enter Hungary website, and it’s a good idea to check with the authorities or your employer before taking any action, as the rules may change.

Step 8: During and at the end of the lease

• Follow the house rules and report any problems to the landlord promptly.
• If you do not wish to renew, observe the notice period and schedule a date for the handover.
• When you take possession of the apartment, inspect it based on the move-in report, record the meter readings, and ask when your security deposit will be refunded. When you move out, report your change of address to the authorities.

Quick Summary: The 6 Most Important Things

• Sign a written contract that you have read.
• Ask for a copy of the title deed.
• The landlord must consent to the registration of residence.
• Prepare a handover report with photos and the meter readings.
• If you are a member of the union, register your address by the 93rd day; if you are not a member, prepare your proof of residence.
• Don't transfer any money until you've seen the apartment.

Important Information

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Regulations are subject to change, so always check with the relevant authority to confirm the current requirements. Before signing a contract, consult a lawyer regarding your specific situation.

We'd be happy to help you with your search: check out our rental properties or send us a message.