Moving to Hungary

Why is Budapest special?
The capital of Hungary, Budapest is
traditionally the cultural and commercial
melting pot of Western and Eastern
Europe. Above all, Budapest is reputed
for its pleasant views, quality restaurants
and thriving night life. The river Danube -
with its islands and parks - also makes
living in Budapest a very enjoyable
experience.

First impressions of Budapest
Many people think of the city as having
two pieces. The hilly Buda side is a more
easygoing residential area with lots of
greenery. Pest, the flatter part of the city, is
more dense and vivid.
Traffic is usually a problem due to the fast
development of wealth and the slightly
slower road construction. This makes
public transport a good option.
It can be difficult for some newcomers to
get acquainted with the city at first. Some
roads lack signs, making it hard

to find your way. However, the people of Budapest are very friendly. If you are lost, you can
ask somebody to help you.

Language
The local language is Hungarian. Most younger people speak at least some English.
By learning just a few basic Hungarian expressions, one can easily survive.

Weather
Budapest has continental weather. Sunny, dry summers and windy, freezing winters are
the most typical. Spring is often just a quick transition and autumn is the nicest time with
the falling leaves.

Moving to Hungary

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Budapest, Hungary
Culture & Relocation Resources

Essential Relocation Information

Consular Information Sheet by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular
Affairs This page contains a short description of Hungary. Entry / Exit
requirements of Hungary (passport, student visa, work visa. Safety and security
information. Crime and emergency information. Medical, health and vaccination
information. Medical insurance. Traffic safety and road conditions.

Foreign Entry Requirements in Hungary - Passport, onward/return ticket, and proof
of sufficient funds required. Visa not required for stay of up to 90 days. HIV test
required for persons staying longer than 1 year. For longer stays and employment,
visas must be obtained before you travel. Submit a passport with minimum validity
of six months, signed visa application form, 1 passport photo, and pay a $60-$90
fee, depending on visa type. Proof of means of transportation, lodging
arrangement, and financial means is also required. For more information, check
with the Embassy of the Republic of Hungary, 3910 Shoemaker St., NW,
Washington, DC 20008 (202/362-6730), or the nearest Consulate General: New
York (212/752-0661) or Los Angeles (310/473-9344). Detailed information: www.
hungaryemb.org For assistance, contact one of our recommended relocation
specialists.

Hungary has a policy of zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Police often conduct routine roadside checks where breath-analyzer tests are
administered. Persons found to be driving while intoxicated face jail and/or fines.
Possible penalties for a car accident involving injury or death are one to five years
in prison. Police have instituted a widespread practice of stopping vehicles,
particularly in Budapest, to check driver identity documents in a search for illegal
aliens and residents in Hungary, and to check vehicle registration and fitness
documentation. It is against the law to use a hand-held cell phone while driving
anywhere in Hungary.

Hungary recognizes international driver's permits (IDP) issued by the American
Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance when
presented in conjunction with a state driver's license. American driver's licenses
will be accepted in Hungary for one year after arrival, provided that a certified
Hungarian translation has been attached to the license. Those with IDPs do not
need to have the license translated, but must present both IDP and state driver's
license together. After one year in Hungary, U.S. citizens must obtain a Hungarian
driver's license.

The speed limit for cars and motorcycles on the motorway is 130 km per hour
(approximately 80 mph); on highways, the limit is 110 km per hour (approximately
65 mph); and in town and village areas, the speed limit is 50 km per hour
(approximately 30 mph).

Special seats are required for infants. Children under age 12 may not sit in the
front seat of an automobile. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car.

Unless another instruction sign is displayed, yielding the right of way to cars
approaching from the right is the general rule. Turning right on a red light is
prohibited. If another car flashes its high beams at you, it means the driver is giving
you precedence at an intersection or calling your attention to the presence of
something that may affect your driving.

The police write up tickets for traffic violations thus documenting the infraction
and any applicable fine(s). The police will give the offender a postal check (money
order), on which the amount of the fine to be paid is written, and this postal check
may be presented and paid for at any Hungarian post office. Sometimes, in
disputes about fines or the offense, the police will confiscate the person's passport
and issue a receipt for the passport with an "invitation letter" to appear at the police
station the next day or day after to resolve the dispute. The passport is returned
after resolution and/or the payment of the fine.

The thought of moving to a new country brings forth a world of emotions: excitement,
concern, curiosity and anticipation just to name a few. Many questions begin to arise and
the task of finding the answers and coordinating the move often seem insurmountable.
That's when FiloLog.com becomes the most valuable tool at your disposal!

Here you will find your own personal guide to Budapest, Hungary covering everything from
the cost of living to how to find housing. I keep adding more and more, so visit back often.