The beautiful, historic centre and the reasonable cost of living are just some of the reasons why you should begin your adventure as a Tax Professional in the Hungarian capital. Budapest is situated in Northern Hungary and is the country’s economic centre and home to many international companies. The capital has a population of 1.8 million and is built by the Danube River, which divides Budapest into the hilly left-bank Buda and the plain right-bank Pest, lending the city its name.
You will have no problem getting places. Budapest has an extensive public transport system which ranges from buses, trains, and trams to boats, and covers the entirety of the capital. Hungary also has a very well-developed healthcare system.
When you arrive in Hungary, you will notice some cultural differences compared to back home. The first and most obvious is the language. The official language of Hungary is Hungarian, however, English and German are widely spoken, especially in the city centre of Budapest. There are also some business cultures that will vary from what you are used to. For example, invitations to dinners and cultural events are just as important as actual meetings in Hungary and an invite should be taken seriously.
Days off in the Hungarian Capital
Budapest is a beautiful, historic city that offers plenty to do on your day off! You can visit the neo-gothic structured parliament building or St. Stephen’s Basilica, a large parish church that accommodates 8,500 people and features a magnificent 300ft neo-Renaissance dome. Take a cruise down the Danube River and appreciate the many sights of your new home, hopping off at the 19th-century Fisherman’s Bastion which offers beautiful views of the river and the city.
If you’re looking for an elegant night out, the Hungarian Opera House is the place to visit with both ballet and opera on offer. Budapest also has no shortage of unique museums for a fun family day out with the Chocolate Museum, a miniature exhibition museum Miniversum and the Hospital in the Rock which is a thrilling nuclear bunker museum. Alternatively, take time out from the world of tax and enjoy one of Budapest’s thermal springs which are said to have healing effects.
Working Permits
EU and EEA nationals only require a valid passport in order to legally obtain work in the country. Non-EU and EEA nationals will have to obtain a job first and then go through the process of acquiring a visa and work permit, which can take some time.
Language Barriers
When moving to Budapest for your International Tax role, it is wise to gain some skills in Hungarian, even if you will be working for an English-speaking company. This will ease the transition into your new life and enable you to communicate with your new colleagues and the community to a better degree.
Cost of Living
There is plenty of competitively priced accommodation. In fact, the cost of living compared with New York City is 52.2% lower.
Monthly:
Rent: for a one-bedroom in the city centre ranges from €370 – €590
Utilities: €145.60
Commuter pass: €29.50
Cappuccino: €1.44
Domestic beer: €0.76