Banking in Hungary
Best banks in Hungary for expats & digital nomads
Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to Hungary. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.
How to open a bank account in Hungary
A passport or ID plus a Hungarian address card is typically needed; requirements vary by bank and non-residents may face extra checks. Many newcomers open Revolut first, then a local account once registered.
Wise multi-currency account
Wise is the option we recommend for almost anyone moving to Hungary: hold and convert 40+ currencies, get local account details to be paid like a local, and send money at the real exchange rate with low, transparent fees. It works before you even arrive, so you can receive income and pay deposits while your local account is still being set up.
Open a free Wise account →Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Wise is a fintech, not a bank; balances are safeguarded, not covered by deposit insurance.
Top banks in Hungary
OTP Bank
traditionalDominant Hungarian bank with the biggest branch and ATM footprint.
Erste Bank Hungary
traditionalAustrian Erste Group; commonly used by expats.
MBH Bank
traditionalFormed by merging MKB, Budapest Bank and Takarék; one of the biggest Hungarian banks.
International accounts & neobanks
Available EEA-wide; very popular in Hungary.
Receiving accounts for freelancers in USD/EUR/GBP.
Listed by bunq as a supported EEA country, though testers report signups are sometimes blocked.
Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.
Next steps in Hungary
See the full Hungary tax, cost and visa profile, or compare Hungary with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.