Travel Guide and FAQ's Concerning Travel to Hungary for Your Dental Treatment

SODC monitors the current travel rules and regulations for both Hungary and the UK on a daily basis. Since the middle of July (when the clinic was permitted to reopen) we have been welcoming patients from abroad to start, continue or complete their dental treatment. SODC has helped legally arrange these visits for over 100 patients taking into account all safety and travel protocols imposed by both governments.

Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions and what SODC does to help address the current travel restrictions:

Q: I have been told I cannot travel. Can I really travel abroad from the UK during the lock-down?

A: Yes. Traveling abroad from the UK is permitted during the lock-down for certain exceptions. One of those exceptions is if one is pursuing medical treatment.
SODC will send you an official document stating that you have scheduled appointments for dental (medical) treatment in Hungary thus confirming your intent for the trip abroad.

Q: I have been told that UK nationals are not allowed entry to Hungary. Is this true?

A: Yes, BUT! SODC can request a legal exemption from the Hungarian Police on your behalf, as it is allowed to travel for medical appointment.
Once this request is processed this document is forwarded to you for presentation at the border control upon arrival in Hungary.

Q: Do I need to self-isolate once I arrive in Hungary?

A: Yes, but only for 2-3 days. Two PCR Covid tests are required after arriving to Hungary 48 hours apart. Until the test results are back a self-isolation is required.
SODC has partnered with a reputable lab that provides the Covid-19 PCR tests for our patients in order to make the self-isolation period as short as possible – usually only a couple of days. All testing is done without the need for any additional appointments or travel. However, planning a few extra days for your overall dental treatment will be required to allow for the testing and self-isolation protocols.

Q: What are the requirements before returning to the UK?

A: A negative Covid-19 PCR test must be produced within 72 hours of departure for the UK. If your second Covid-19 PCR test is not within 72 hours of your departure SODC will schedule a third test in order to fulfil the requirements of the UK Government. In addition, you must also submit a passenger locator form within 48 hours of your arrival back to the UK as well as register and purchase a UK Covid Testing Package. Our staff is at your disposal to help with any documents you might need to submit.

Q: Do I need to self-isolate when returning home to the UK?

A: Yes. The UK government requires all passengers entering the UK to self-isolate for 10 days upon return.
However it is possible to half the isolation period by using the "Test to Release" option.
Unfortunately, this is the only area where SODC is unable to assist you directly. However, we are available to help with any logistical issues you may encounter.

In addition, here are some more frequently asked questions from patients who have visited us during these "Covid Times":

It just seems like a lot of bother to get over there, shouldn't I just wait until things normalize?

It is our opinion that the word “normal” may only be a relative term for the foreseen future. Unfortunately, as with other past travel restrictions (such as taking your shoes off and no liquids past security checks – for example) these things tend to remain part of the travel routine. So, if you, like so many of our patients are desperate to smile again or simply eat without pain or worry, we suggest not waiting. Here are a few of our patients explaining why they decided not to wait:
What Convinced me to Travel Now

I really want to visit the clinic but I am still nervous about traveling and cannot decide what to do. What advice can you give me?

Aside from still providing you with the absolute highest quality dental treatment, SODC can only promise to do everything in our power to make your visit as safe and pleasant as possible during these “less than ideal” conditions. Again, perhaps the best advice can be heard directly from some patients who have experienced their trip first hand.
Advice for those who are Anxious about Traveling

Will someone still meet me at the airport when I arrive? What will happen to me at the airport?

Yes. One of our drivers will still meet you at the arrivals gate with your name on a plaque. The process of arriving at the airport is nearly the same as it was during more “normal” times. Here is a link to a short video of some patients describing their recent experience at the airport upon arrival:
What awaits you at the Budapest Airport

What about getting food during the self-isolation period? What is Budapest like these days once I can go out?

There are a number of dining delivery services that provide a wide range of options to choose from. They are accessible either by direct telephone contact or by a downloadable Android or iOS APP. Because of the entry restrictions Budapest has very few tourists at the moment but still remains a vibrant bustling city none the less. Here is a video of what some patients had to say about their experience in the city:
The Vibe in Budapest
CURRENT: February 24, 2021