Hungary Tightens Rules on Foreign Workers
Hungary’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Peter Magyar, has announced restrictions on labor immigration from countries outside the European Union. This move fulfills a campaign promise he made before taking office. The decree outlining the new measures was published on Saturday. Notably, the simplified work permit program introduced by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s administration will no longer accept new applications.
Currently, around 90,000 non-EU labor migrants work in Hungary, representing roughly 2% of the country’s total workforce. These workers are primarily employed in the following sectors:
- automotive industry
- battery manufacturing
- construction
- agriculture
- delivery services
The main countries of origin for these workers include the Philippines, Ukraine, China, Vietnam, and India.
Agreement Reached on Hungarian Minority in Ukraine
Existing residence permits will remain valid until their expiration dates. The ban applies exclusively to the fast-track program that was in place under Orbán’s leadership. In addition, Peter Magyar announced that an agreement has been reached with Ukraine concerning the rights of the Hungarian minority. This community in Ukraine numbers approximately 100,000 people.
“The deal covers expanding the linguistic, educational, cultural, and political rights of the Hungarian minority.” – Peter Magyar
The action plan, coordinated with Hungary, applies to all national minorities within Ukraine and is scheduled for implementation in 2026–2027. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has commented on the possibility of Magyar visiting Ukraine next week, which could open new avenues for bilateral cooperation.
These shifts in Hungary’s immigration policy could have a significant impact on the labor market, especially in sectors where migrant workers hold key roles. The halt on new work permits may lead to labor shortages in certain industries, potentially affecting the country’s economic growth. As for the Hungarian minority in Ukraine, the agreements reached could represent an important step in strengthening bilateral ties and improving the situation of national minorities in Ukraine.
As Hungary tightens its immigration policies, the implications for labor markets in neighboring countries become increasingly evident. For instance, Ukraine faces challenges in attracting migrant workers due to persistently low wages, which may further complicate the regional labor dynamics. Understanding these shifts is crucial for grasping the broader impact on employment opportunities across Eastern Europe.