Brussels (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Hungary ignored the European Commission’s deadline this week to answer questions about its decision to facilitate entry requirements for Russian and Belarusian nationals, increasing concerns across the EU.
What Are the Implications of Hungary’s New Visa Rules for Russia and Belarus?
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson had handed Budapest until 19 August to explain the modifications in its immigration policy, but as of Monday afternoon, no response had been received, the commission ratified. Hungary recently settled entry rules for Russians and Belarusians, letting “guest workers” stay for two years, with an option to extend for another three years.
Johansson sent a note in August to Hungary’s Interior Minister, Sándor Pintér, demanding an explanation for these changes. “The extension of the reduced processing of residence and work permit applications for residents of Russia and Belarus could lead to a de facto circumvention of the rules the Union has imposed,” Johansson warned.
How Could Hungary’s Policy Changes Affect Schengen Area Security?
While giving long-stay visas and residence access is a national matter, Johansson stressed that such schemes must be balanced to safeguard the integrity of the EU’s border-free zone and consider potential security threats. Some European envoys fear these changes could pave the way for Russians and Belarusians to achieve permanent residency in Hungary, endangering the security of the Schengen Area amid ongoing tensions with Russia and Belarus.
What Security Risks Are Associated with Hungary’s Extended Residency Rules?
Earlier this year, several EU countries, headed by the Czech Republic, moved to ban Schengen travel for Russian diplomats due to espionage matters. After entering the passport-free zone, Russian diplomats could potentially travel voluntarily across the bloc. On 15 August, eight Baltic and Nordic nations – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden – voiced concern that Hungary’s relaxed regulations could increase security risks.
In a mutual letter to Brussels, they said: “Regardless of whether it falls under national or Union competence, we are worried that this decision may constitute a serious security risk to all member states.” They accommodated Johansson’s involvement, calling Hungary’s reaction “of utmost importance” for ensuring EU security.
How Has Hungary Responded to EU Concerns Over Its Immigration Policies?
Hungary, however, strongly rejected these concerns. Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó disregarded the allegations as “plain lies” in a statement posted on social media, adding that Russian and Belarusian citizens still experience comprehensive checks to enter and stay in Hungary. He blamed Northern European and Baltic colleagues for being “overwhelmed by their adherence to the pro-war camp”.
