Which option do you guys think is better?

alexmunkacsy wrote:

Hello, I am trying to move to Hungary to teach English and learn Hungarian.....a. going to Hungary with the Schengen visa, finding work and then switching to a visa that will allow me to stay longer

You've got a Hungarian name so perhaps - if your relations with Hungary are not too distant - you could just apply for citizenship and then you don't need a visa.

I would think that option A would be be the quicker way to move to the country. But, I'm sure if you apply for a teaching position and are accepted they would help you obtain a visa.

alexmunkacsy wrote:

a. going to Hungary with the Schengen visa, finding work and then switching to a visa that will allow me to stay longer

You are in Honolulu. Are you an EU national? Sorry I ask, but it is not clear. Unless you are an EU citizen or resident, you can not normally work legally in Hungary under Schengen. Non-EU nationals or residents normally need to apply for a residence or work visa before entering the country to do any work.

If you are not an EU national, fluffy2560 had a clever thought, something to consider.

alexmunkacsy wrote:

b.  applying in advance to get the "self-employed" visa that will allow me to work in Hungary as a freelance English teacher

Be aware that unlike the US, being self employed is a business type in Hungary and has monthly expenses. Even a self-employed person is required to have an accountant and pay health insurance and Hungarian social care taxes in advance. That is unlike the US, which is a pay as you go system, Hungary is a pre-pay tax system on all businesses. Costs can be thousands of US Dollars a year, even if you have no income. Not small business friendly. You can try to get a "freelance" tax number to do business in Hungary (which has fewer tax burdens), but I honestly do not know if this is an option it you need to enter Hungary on a work visa .....

@ alexmunkacsy > Welcome to Expat.com

I have created a new thread with your post on the Hungary forum in order to bring much more light to your question.

Thanks

Priscilla