Hungary

Hungary/Ukraine Border
Widespread military action is underway in neighbouring Ukraine. You should not attempt to cross into Ukraine from Hungary. If you have arrived in Hungary from Ukraine and are in need of consular assistance, contact the New Zealand Embassy in Austria which is accredited to Hungary at nzviennaconsular@aon.at [2], or phone the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand).

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing occurs in Hungary and is common in tourist areas, larger cities and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.  Avoid showing signs of wealth and carrying large sums of cash.  Travellers on trains are often targeted for theft, never leave your bags unattended. If you are travelling on an overnight train, keep your cabin locked.

Theft from vehicles and highway robberies may also occur. Be cautious when stopping at gas stations and highway parking areas, especially after dark. Ensure you lock your doors and keep any valuables out of sight.

There have been incidents of food and drink spiking in Hungary. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks, snacks, gum or cigarettes from strangers or recent acquaintances.  These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Scams
Some clubs and restaurants overcharge. Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering drinks or food, and check your bill carefully before paying. Avoid disputes about overcharging, as they can lead to violence.

In case of threats or signs of violence during any dispute, you should remain calm, and report the incident to the police either in person or by dialling 107.

Taxi drivers are sometimes accomplices in these scams, never ask a taxi driver to recommend a bar or club. Be wary of any invitation by a stranger to enter a bar or club.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations occur frequently in Hungary, primarily in Budapest, and may disrupt local public services and transport. Some take place on or close to important national holidays with political relevance, such as 15 March (anniversary of 1848 Revolution) and 23 October (anniversary of 1956 anti-Soviet uprising).

New Zealanders in Hungary are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks in Hungary and across Europe. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past. 

New Zealanders in Hungary are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

General travel advice
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can be severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or heavy fines.

Authorities may ask for proof of your identity at any time. Carry your passport with you at all times, a photocopy is not acceptable.  Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or confiscated.

The local currency is Hungarian Forint. Only change money at banks or authorised dealers, don’t use street money changers. Take care not to accept bank notes that are no longer valid but which are still in circulation.

Same-sex relationships and civil partnerships are legal in Hungary, and laws prohibit sexual discrimination. However, same-sex relationships aren’t widely accepted in Hungarian society.  Harassment and violence against LGBTQIA+ people have occurred.   

Dual citizenship is legally recognised in Hungary. Read our advice for travellers who hold dual citizenship here [3].

Important phone numbers that have English language services:
-       1818 (the government customer line) – provides information on administrative matters and is available 24/7.

-       +36 1 463 9100 (National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing) – provides detailed information on procedures related to policing, asylum and visa issues, overstaying, resident permits etc.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Hungary should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Hungary are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• Travel to Europe [4]

• For current health alerts [5]