Hungary's relaxed visa rules for Russians spark EU security fears
As the independent portal Meduza reports, Hungary has simplified entry conditions for Russians and Belarusians. Following this decision, neighbouring countries expressed concerns that spies or terrorists could infiltrate the European Union.
Hungarian authorities have "quietly" simplified the entry conditions for Russians and Belarusians. Now, citizens of Russia and Belarus are covered by the so-called "national card" program (one of the types of residence permits in Hungary), which allows them to work in any industry and bring their families along.
The Hungarian government decided at the beginning of July. Previously, the program was available only to citizens of Serbia and Ukraine. As of July 8, citizens of Russia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, North Macedonia, and Montenegro can use the "national card."
The card is issued for two years and can be renewed an unlimited number of times. After three years of residence, the cardholder can apply for a permanent residence permit in Hungary.
Furthermore, applicants for the card do not undergo a cultural competency test or a European-level security check.
Hungary's decision raises concerns in the EU
Following this decision, Hungary's neighbours expressed fears that spies or terrorists could infiltrate the European Union. In a conversation with RND, MEP Sergey Lagodinsky said that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban "is undermining the European migration system while simultaneously becoming a servant of the Kremlin."
At the same time, he noted that he considers it inappropriate to "stigmatize all Russian citizens."
Recall that with the start of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, several EU countries (including Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Czechia, and Finland) closed entry and stopped issuing even short-term tourist visas to Russian citizens.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is considered one of Vladimir Putin's last allies in Europe. He has repeatedly advocated for continued cooperation between the European Union and Russia and criticized the granting of military aid to Ukraine. In July 2024, Orban embarked on a "peace mission" to Kyiv, Moscow, and Beijing. His "allegedly peaceful efforts" were subsequently criticized in the European Parliament.
