“We have informed the Government of Hungary today that the validity period of travel authorization requested by persons holding a Hungarian passport through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will be reduced from two years to one year. In addition, the validity of the ESTA for Hungarian passport holders is limited to one use“ – Announce On Tuesday, the US Embassy in Budapest.
The Americans also noted that “the amendment is effective immediately and will remain in effect until the underlying security concerns are addressed.” Reducing the validity of an ESTA only affects new ESTA applications received after the entry into force of this Statement and is not retroactive. ESTA permits issued before August 1, 2023 are still valid for two years and for multiple entries.”
The reason given for the decision was this
The United States government has gone to great lengths over many years to avoid this amendment and address the long-standing security vulnerability created by the simplified naturalization process. Despite this, the Hungarian government decided not to address the concerns raised and did not take any steps to comply with the requirements of the Visa Waiver Program in all respects. The Visa Waiver Program is a comprehensive security partnership between the United States and its designated partners created to protect the safety of the American people and travelers to the United States.
An article in an American newspaper also revealed the specific problem. Former ambassador and actor István Szent-Ivanyi said in this regard, “Orban’s government has become increasingly hostile to the United States and the West, and the current American amendment is actually a message.”
The Hungarian Ministry of the Interior announced this
The United States of America requested data on Hungarians abroad who hold dual citizenship. Hungary does not reveal this to anyone, because the safety of Hungarians abroad is at stake. That’s why President Joe Biden’s government is now taking revenge on the Hungarians.
The US Embassy is located in Hungary In its information They explained point by point what would change after the decision.
How can you travel then?
What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of Hungary and 39 other countries to travel to the United States without a visa for short-term business or tourism purposes. Travelers under the Visa Waiver Program require a valid ESTA approval.
What are the changes?
From 1 August 2023, ESTA approval will be valid for only one year and for one-time use for all persons holding a Hungarian passport. Similar to the situation since 2021, travelers born outside of Hungary are still not eligible for an ESTA, and must apply for a visa to enter the United States.
Will a new ESTA pass be required for each trip to the US?
Yes. Each ESTA approval will be valid for one entry into the United States.
