Last Updated: October 5, 2020
Hungary has reopened its borders for tourism to welcome travelers back from select countries. As of July 15, 2020, Hungary divides countries into three categories. Therefore, a different set of rules of entry, health, and quarantine applies to certain categories.
October 3 update: the border closure of Hungary will be extended for another month due to a sharp increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the country. Only travelers coming from the Visegrád Group (Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia) are allowed to enter but they must present a negative COVID-19 test result.
Which Countries Can Travel To Hungary?
Hungary has developed a color-coded entry system that is based on risk assessment. But it must be based on other unknown factors. Because some low-risk countries have been denied entry and other high-risk countries have been approved entry with restrictions.
Green:
Yellow:
Red:
Entry Rules By Classification
Green:
No restrictions. That is to say that all tourists arriving from the green category can enter Hungary without restrictions. There will also be no mandatory test or quarantine for them. However, temperature checks and a health questionnaire should be expected on arrival.
Yellow:
14-day quarantine. All tourists arriving from the countries under the yellow category will undergo a medical examination on entry. If there’s a suspicion of infection established, the passenger will not enter Hungary. If no suspicion of infection, the passenger will be allowed to enter. But it is mandatory to undergo 14-day quarantine or self-isolation.
Red:
No entry. Tourists from the red category countries should not be allowed entry into Hungary.
Other Health Protocols
Wearing of face masks is not mandatory at Budapest Liszt Ferenc Airport. But it is obligatory to wear one on flights.
Face masks or face mask like substitutes (scarves, shawls, etc.) are mandatory when shopping, on public transport, and in taxis. All travelers should also follow social distancing measures.
What’s Open in Hungary?
- Public areas such as parks, shops, shopping malls, and markets are open.
- Restaurants, cafés, bars, and hotels are open, but employees are expected to wear face masks.
- Cultural institutions, such as libraries, museums, zoos, cinemas, and theaters are open.
- Universities may be open. Provided that physical distancing is observed, but the rector has the ultimate right to decide. Visiting student residences is still prohibited.
- Open-air cultural and sporting events (e.g. open-air theater, cinema, circus, exhibition, literary event) can be attended in accordance with epidemiological rules.
- Mass events of more than 500 people are banned. Worship services can be held, and civil marriages and funerals can also be held at a protective distance. Family events and weddings of less than 200 people can be held.
Check out Hungary on our live map.
Sources: U.S. Embassy in Hungary | Budapest Airport | About Hungary | Konzuli Tajekoztatas
