Hungary VAT Rate 2026: 27% Standard Rate

How Much Is VAT in Hungary?

The standard VAT rate in Hungary is 27% in 2026, plus reduced rates of 5%, 18% on certain goods and services. It applies to most goods and services sold in Hungary. Among the 27 EU member states, standard VAT ranges from 17% in Luxembourg to 27% in Hungary.

How to calculate Hungary VAT

To add 27% VAT to a net (tax-exclusive) price, multiply it by 1.27. To remove VAT from a gross (tax-inclusive) price, divide it by 1.27.

• Add VAT: HUF 100 net × 1.27 = HUF 127 gross (that is HUF 27 of VAT)
• Remove VAT: HUF 127 gross ÷ 1.27 = HUF 100 net (that is HUF 27 of VAT)

Use the Hungary VAT calculator above for any amount, or compare Hungary with every other country in our VAT rates by country table.

Current VAT Rates

Historical VAT Rate Changes

• 2026: Current standard rate in force
• 2012: Standard rate raised to 27% — the EU's highest
• 1988: VAT (ÁFA) introduced

Economic Impact

VAT contributes approximately 20-30% to Hungary's total tax revenue. The current rate structure balances revenue generation with economic competitiveness within the EU region.

Zero-Rated Items

The following items are zero-rated for VAT in Hungary:

• Exports of goods and services
• International transportation
• Some basic food items
• Children's clothing
• Books and newspapers
• Prescription medications

VAT Exempt Items

The following are exempt from VAT in Hungary (no VAT charged, no input VAT recovery):

• Financial services
• Insurance services
• Healthcare and medical services
• Education and training
• Postal services
• Charitable activities

Reduced Rate Applications

Items subject to reduced VAT rates in Hungary:

• 5% rate: Medicines, books, journals, district heating and basic foods such as milk and eggs
• 18% rate: Selected dairy and bakery products, hotel accommodation and open-air events

Hungary has no general threshold, but businesses below HUF 18 million of turnover can opt for VAT-exempt status (alanyi adómentesség). Always confirm current thresholds and deadlines with the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV), as they are reviewed periodically.

VAT Registration

• Registration Threshold: HUF 18,000,000 (exemption limit)
• Voluntary Registration: Available below threshold
• Registration Process: Online via tax authority website
• Processing Time: Typically 2-4 weeks

VAT Returns and Payment

• Filing Frequency: Monthly, quarterly or annually by turnover
• Filing Deadline: End of month following period
• Payment Methods: Bank transfer, online payment
• Late Filing Penalties: Varies by amount and delay

Cross-Border Trade

Special considerations for international transactions:

• Intra-EU Trade: Zero-rated with valid VAT numbers
• Imports: VAT payable at point of entry
• Exports: Generally zero-rated
• Digital Services: Subject to OSS rules for B2C sales

For background on how the buyer accounts for VAT on intra-EU and cross-border B2B supplies, see the reverse charge mechanism. For B2C digital sales and low-value imports, see VAT on digital services and cross-border e-commerce.

Nearby Countries

What is the current VAT rate in Hungary?

The standard VAT rate in Hungary is 27% as of 2026. This applies to most goods and services unless they qualify for reduced rates or exemptions.

How do I calculate VAT in Hungary?

To add VAT: multiply the net amount by 27%. To remove VAT from a gross amount: divide by 1.27. Use our calculator above for instant results.

Who needs to register for VAT in Hungary?

Hungary has no general threshold, but businesses below HUF 18 million of turnover can opt for VAT-exempt status (alanyi adómentesség).

Can I reclaim VAT in Hungary?

VAT-registered businesses can generally reclaim input VAT on business purchases. Non-EU tourists may claim VAT refunds on qualifying purchases when leaving the country — see our guide to VAT refunds for tourists and non-resident businesses.