Avoiding culture shock: Tips for expats in Hungary facing the unexpected

Adjusting to life in a new country is rarely without surprises, and Hungary has its fair share of cultural quirks that can catch newcomers off guard. Inspired by conversations with expats in Hungary, we explore the everyday differences that often come as a shock. Whether it’s navigating paperwork, understanding social norms, or simply getting used to local food, these tips are here to help expats in Hungary settle in with confidence and a sense of humour.

Navigating bureaucracy

For many expats in Hungary, dealing with local bureaucracy can be one of the first real challenges. Processes like registering your address, applying for a residence permit, or even getting internet installed often involve stacks of paperwork and long waits. It helps to be patient, keep multiple copies of all documents, and bring someone who speaks Hungarian if possible.

Learning the language (or at least the basics)

Hungarian is known for being one of the trickier languages to learn, but expats in Hungary will find that even making a small effort goes a long way. Well, most of the time… Locals usually appreciate it when you attempt basic greetings or use simple phrases, and it can really help with everyday tasks like shopping or asking for directions. You don’t need to be fluent, but showing you’re trying is key.

Formality

Social interactions can be a little more formal than what some expats in Hungary might be used to. People tend to greet each other with a handshake, titles are used more frequently in professional settings, and first impressions matter. It’s best to err on the side of formality at first and adjust your tone once you get a feel for the situation.

Keep your voice down

Hungarians are generally quite reserved in public. You might notice quieter voices on public transport, less small talk in shops, and an overall preference for personal space. For expats in Hungary, this can feel unusual at first, but it’s part of the culture, and over time, the quieter pace often becomes something to appreciate.

Shoes off!

If you’re invited to someone’s home, be prepared to take your shoes off at the door. It’s a standard custom in Hungary and applies to most households.

Heavy meals

Hungarian cuisine is hearty, rich, and often quite meaty, with paprika being a signature ingredient. Expats in Hungary will find dishes like gulyás (goulash), pörkölt (stew), and lángos on many menus, especially outside of Budapest. While delicious, it can be a bit of an adjustment for vegetarians or those used to lighter meals.

Tobacco shops

Cigarettes are only sold in specialised tobacco shops (Nemzeti Dohánybolt), which can be a surprise for new arrivals. And while Budapest is more flexible, many towns and especially villages still observe Sunday closures for smaller shops. Expats in Hungary often learn to plan ahead and get weekend essentials on Saturday to avoid being caught out.

You are welcome… or not?

Overall, most Hungarians are polite and welcoming, though sometimes reserved at first. Expats in Hungary may find people curious about why they’ve moved there, especially in smaller towns where foreign residents are less common. Being respectful, maybe even learning a few words in Hungarian, and showing interest in local customs usually helps break the ice.

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