BUDAPEST – Hungary has announced a decision to stop issuing Worker Visas for nationals of the Philippines, Georgia, and Armenia starting Friday. The move is part of a broader effort to tighten rules on foreign labor.
Government spokesperson Vanda Szondi confirmed the policy shift. She said the change marks the first phase of a long-term plan to regulate the inflow of foreign workers into Hungary.
Officials stated that the updated rules aim to better control the country’s labor market. The government believes the adjustment will help address concerns about wage pressure on local workers.
Under the new policy, Worker Visas will no longer be issued through simplified recruitment channels that previously allowed manpower agencies to bring in foreign labor from the affected countries.
The decision follows an election pledge by Prime Minister Peter Magyar’s Tisza party. The party had announced plans to restrict Worker Visas for non-European Union nationals beginning in June.
Authorities clarified that foreign workers already in Hungary will not be immediately affected. Existing workers can still apply for extensions under current regulations.
Applications submitted before the new rules take effect will also continue to be processed normally. However, no new Worker Visas will be granted under the suspended categories.
Official data shows that foreign workers make up around two percent of Hungary’s total workforce. Despite this small percentage, several sectors rely heavily on migrant labor.
Industries such as manufacturing and services have expressed concern over the policy change. Some business groups warn that limiting Worker Visas could lead to labor shortages in key sectors.
Foreign investors have also raised concerns about the long-term impact on economic growth. They argue that restricting access to foreign labor may affect productivity and operational stability.
The government maintains that the reforms are necessary to balance labor demand and protect domestic wages. Officials say further adjustments to the Worker Visas system may be introduced in the coming months.
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For now, Hungary’s decision marks a significant shift in its immigration and labor policy, with a clear focus on reducing reliance on foreign workforce recruitment.
