Representatives for President Donald Trump have made it easier for Hungarians to travel to the US without a visa for vacations and business purposes.
“The partnership between the US and Hungary is strong, particularly in security matters, and Hungary’s efforts to meet visa security standards reflect this,” said Deputy Chief Tricia McLaughlin. She further mentioned:
Prime Minister Orban, like President Trump, is focused on border safety and monitoring who enters Hungary. When a country secures its borders, it contributes to global safety, and such efforts should be acknowledged. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, we’re working to restore integrity in our immigration system.
The decision from Homeland Security Secretary Christa Noem reverses restrictions placed under President Joe Biden’s administration by border chief Ali Mayorkas in 2021.
Mayorkas’ actions were reportedly motivated by a progressive opposition to Hungary’s policies aimed at limiting Muslim immigration.
In response to Hungary’s stance, Mayorkas had restricted Hungarian travelers’ access to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in 2021. As of 2023, these restrictions have been eased.
NOEM outlined her reasoning for overturning Mayorkas’ policy.
Since the Hungarian government has pursued a lawsuit as requested by the US to address security concerns, previous restrictions have been lifted, allowing increased travel for Hungarian citizens to the US… Only nations meeting rigorous security criteria can now enjoy visa-free access.
Mayorkas’ policies affected law-abiding Hungarian citizens, while seemingly offering easier travel to individuals from Romania, a nation facing various challenges.
The upcoming January 2025 consideration was seen as partial support for Romania’s government amid concerns about potential criminal exploitation of this easier access. Reports from Breitbart on August 1 highlighted rising crimes associated with Romanian travelers.
A 55-year-old Romanian illegal immigrant, Clara Badanak, was apprehended in Wretchham, Massachusetts, by an ICE agent. Sources revealed that Badanak is associated with a Romanian theft ring and is currently in ICE custody pending deportation.
In addition to Badanak’s capture, ICE officials noted the arrest of several illegal alien Romanian women involved in systematic robbery targeting Americans in Massachusetts.
“This robbery ring will no longer be able to prey on American citizens,” stated Tricia McLaughlin from the Department of Homeland Security. “These criminals should never have been allowed to roam freely in Massachusetts, stealing from residents.”
In May, Trump and his representatives ended the advantages Mayorkas had previously granted to Romania.
