DHS Restores Hungary’s Full Visa Waiver Program Access

DHS Restores Hungary’s Full Visa Waiver Program Access

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that Hungary’s full status in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has been restored. This decision follows actions by the Hungarian government to strengthen security measures and align with U.S. requirements.

In recent years, Hungarian citizens faced restrictions when traveling under the VWP:

  • 2021: ESTA approvals for Hungarian passport holders born outside Hungary were revoked.
  • 2023: ESTA validity was reduced from two years to one year, and each ESTA could only be used once.

These measures limited flexibility for Hungarian travelers and created additional hurdles for those visiting the United States.

What Has Changed

As of September 30, 2025, the restrictions will be lifted. Hungarian citizens will once again be able to:

  • Apply for an ESTA valid for two years
  • Use the ESTA for multiple entries during that period

This restores the same benefits enjoyed by other countries in the Visa Waiver Program.

 Why It Matters

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without needing a visa, provided their stay is 90 days or less.

Restoring Hungary’s full access means:

  • Greater ease of travel for Hungarian citizens
  • Fewer administrative hurdles for short-term visits
  • Strengthened U.S.–Hungary cooperation on security and mobility

Key Takeaways for Travelers

  • Hungarian citizens can expect more predictable travel to the U.S. starting in late 2025.
  • The ESTA process will return to its two-year, multiple-entry format.
  • These changes affect short-term travel only. Anyone planning to work, study, or immigrate permanently will still need to apply for the appropriate visa.

The restoration of Hungary’s full status in the Visa Waiver Program highlights the importance of security partnerships and compliance between nations. It is a positive development for Hungarian travelers, making short-term visits to the United States simpler and more accessible once again.