Security risk for Schengen area? Hungary’s National Card programme under fire but foreign minister dismisses concerns

Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has stated that including Russian and Belarusian citizens in Hungary’s National Card programme does not pose a security risk to the Schengen area. He emphasised that entry and residency still require thorough background checks.

Security risk?

Szijjártó criticised Northern European and Baltic politicians for what he describes as a campaign of misinformation regarding the National Card programme, which they claim is unsafe and could provide a loophole for Russian spies.

Non-EU citizens can work in Hungary under various permits, typically requiring either a residence permit or a National Card, 444.hu writes, based on MTI. While Ukrainian and Serbian guest workers have used the National Card previously, since 8 July, the card has been extended to applicants from eight countries, including Russia and Belarus.

National Card programme extension faces criticism

This extension has faced criticism, with experts like András Rácz raising concerns about potential national security risks, arguing that it could allow unchecked access to the entire Schengen area for Russians. Manfred Weber, President of the European People’s Party, also warned of serious risks associated with this programme extension.

The Baltic states have expressed their concerns, and the European Commissioner for Home Affairs has requested an explanation from Hungarian Interior Minister Sándor Pintér on how the Hungarian government will prevent Russian spies from entering the country.

Read also:

• Does the Hungarian government let in many Eastern guest workers unchecked with card scheme?
• Here’s the new list of countries from which guest workers can come to Hungary

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