Brussels questions Hungary’s Visa policy changes for Russians and Belarusians
The European Commission has raised concerns over Hungary’s recent decision to ease visa requirements for Russian and Belarusian citizens. This move was facilitated by the National Card scheme of Hungary. And it could potentially undermine the security standards of the Schengen Area, prompting Brussels to demand explanations from Budapest.
This National Card scheme simplifies visa procedures and security screenings for “guest workers” from specific countries. That includes Russia and Belarus. The permit lasts for two years and can be renewed for an additional three. It opens the door to permanent residency for qualifying workers. Initially, the scheme was available to applicants from Ukraine, Bosnia-Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, and Serbia.
European Commission’s concerns
The European Commission, represented by Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs, has expressed serious concerns about the security implications of Hungary’s relaxed visa rules. Johansson emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance due to the security threat posed by Russia. She also warned that the scheme could provide easy access to potential spies and saboteurs.
Manfred Weber, chair of the European People’s Party (EPP), has criticized the new rules. For him, it creates “grave loopholes for espionage activities.” His letter to European Council President Charles Michel highlighted the risk of allowing large numbers of Russians to enter Hungary with minimal supervision, posing a significant threat to national security.
Hungary’s defense against Brussels
Hungary has defended its migration system, with Orbán’s spokesperson dismissing Weber’s criticisms as “absurd and hypocritical.” Budapest maintains that its system is the “strictest” in the EU and argues that the workers are essential for the construction of a nuclear plant using Russian technology, which Hungary insists should be exempt from sanctions.
At the core of the European Commission’s concerns is the integrity of the Schengen Area. The seamless transit of people within this region depends on mutual trust among member states regarding visa decisions. Johansson’s letter stresses the need to carefully balance foreign worker schemes to avoid compromising the common area’s security and migratory considerations.
Despite the stringent sanctions imposed since the Ukraine war began, Russian and Belarusian citizens are still allowed to enter the EU. However, travel restrictions, including the closure of airspace to Russian flights, have made entry difficult. The EU’s suspension of the visa facilitation agreement with Russia and increased scrutiny of visa applications further complicate the situation.
Potential consequences for Hungary
Hungary has until 19 August to respond to a series of questions from the European Commission. The Commission will then decide on the appropriate actions based on Hungary’s explanations. Johansson’s letter warns that Hungary’s National Card scheme could weaken the enforcement of sanctions and the assessment of security threats at the EU’s external borders.
The European Commission’s demand for clarification from Hungary highlights the tension between national policies and EU-wide security standards. As Brussels awaits Hungary’s response, the future of the National Card scheme remains uncertain, with potential repercussions for Hungary’s visa policies and the broader security framework of the Schengen Area.
