Hungary Misses EU Deadline to Clarify Eased Entry Rules for Russian and Belarusian Citizens

The European Commission set a deadline of August 19 for Hungary to answer why it simplified the entry of Russians and Belarusians into its territory, Budapest has not provided any explanation. 

In a letter sent earlier this month to her Hungarian counterpart, Sándor Pintér, the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson requested an explanation from the Budapest government regarding recent modifications to the National Card immigration program, which have simplified entry for Russians and Belarusians seeking work in the country.

At the beginning of July, Hungary significantly eased entry restrictions for Russian and Belarusian citizens by including them in the National Card program. This new policy allows these individuals to work or conduct business in Hungary for up to two years.

While issuing long-stay visas and residence permits is within the jurisdiction of individual member states, Johansson emphasized that “such schemes need to be carefully balanced not to put at risk the integrity of our common area without internal border controls and to duly consider potential security implications.”

Johansson requested Budapest to respond to a list of questions by “no later than August 19.” A European Commission spokesperson confirmed to Euractiv that no response had been received as of Monday (August 19) afternoon.