Hungary Halts Worker Visas for Citizens of Georgia, Armenia, and Philippines in Major Immigration Tightening

Hungary halts worker visas for Georgia, Armenia, and Philippines citizens

Budapest, June 6, 2026 — Hungary has officially stopped issuing new worker visas to nationals of Georgia, Armenia, and the Philippines, marking a significant escalation in the country’s efforts to regulate guest workers and protect local employment.

The measure, which took effect on June 5, 2026, was announced by Hungarian government spokeswoman Vanda Szondi and reflects the new government’s priority to address concerns that foreign labor is suppressing wages for Hungarian workers.

Key Details of the Policy Change

• The simplified visa procedure previously available through employment agencies for workers from these three countries has been suspended.

• New applications from Georgian, Armenian, and Filipino nationals for worker visas will no longer be accepted under the previous streamlined route.

• Foreign workers already residing in Hungary on valid permits can still apply for extensions.

• Applications submitted before June 5 will continue to be processed.

The decision was made by the government led by Prime Minister Peter Magyar of the Tisza party, which has adopted a firmer stance on immigration and labor market protection since taking office.

Why Hungary Is Tightening Rules

Hungarian officials cite growing public concern over wage suppression and pressure on local workers in sectors that heavily rely on foreign labor. The move aligns with broader European trends of countries re-evaluating simplified migration channels amid rising domestic unemployment in certain segments and political pressure from voters.

This development mirrors a similar decision by Poland, which in December 2025 removed Georgia from its simplified employment procedure, requiring Georgian citizens to go through the standard D-type visa process instead.

Impact on Workers and Employers

• For Workers: Nationals of Georgia, Armenia, and the Philippines will face more complex and lengthy procedures if they wish to work in Hungary. Those already in the country remain protected for the duration of their current permits.

• For Employers: Companies will need to adjust recruitment strategies and may face delays when sourcing labor from these traditional source countries. Many businesses in construction, agriculture, hospitality, and manufacturing have relied heavily on workers from these nations.

Regional Context and Georgia’s Own Policies

Interestingly, Georgia itself has been tightening rules for foreign workers, particularly restricting foreigners from roles in courier services and taxi driving while making it more difficult for local companies to hire non-Georgians. This reflects a growing regional emphasis on prioritizing domestic employment.

What This Means for 2026 Immigration Trends

Hungary’s decision is part of a wider pattern across Central and Eastern Europe where governments are shifting from open labor importation to more controlled and selective systems. While skilled worker routes may remain open, simplified procedures for lower-skilled roles are being curtailed.

For the full analysis and implications of this policy shift, read our detailed review: Hungary Imposes Strict Limits on Non-EU Guest Workers – Immigration Review 2026

For the latest updates on Hungary work permits, visa policy changes, and immigration news in 2026, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/hungary