Hungary has returned to the US visa waiver program: what does this mean in 2025?

From September 30, 2025, Hungarian citizens will once again be able to freely enter the US under the ESTA system for a period of two years. This decision became possible after the US recognized the improvement in document control by the Hungarian authorities and restored the country's full access to the Visa Waiver Program.

In this article, we will examine the prospects this opens up for Hungarian citizens and those considering obtaining a residence permit or citizenship in this country.

In 2021, the US imposed restrictions on issuing ESTA to Hungarian citizens. The reason for this was doubts about the reliability of the passport issuance process, especially after the accelerated acquisition of citizenship by ethnic Hungarians from other countries.

These restrictions have now been lifted:

• From September 30, 2025, Hungarians can once again apply for ESTA for 2 years
• ESTA allows multiple entries into the US without a visa
• The maximum length of each stay is up to 90 days

Hungary's return to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) makes its citizenship particularly valuable. Citizens of the country receive:

• Visa-free entry to the US, Canada, the UK, and Schengen countries
• The right to live and work in any EU country
• The ability to open bank accounts, invest, and do business in Europe

Want to take advantage of these benefits? Here are some popular ways to obtain a Hungarian residence permit or passport:

1. Through business or investment. Register a company, create jobs, invest in the economy.
2. Through education or employment. Hungarian universities accept foreign students, and the labor market is open to specialists.
3. Through repatriation. The simplified citizenship program for ethnic Hungarians continues to operate.
4. Through marriage to a Hungarian citizen. After registering your marriage and residing in the country, you can apply for citizenship.

Depending on the grounds, the following are required:

• Foreign passport
• Birth certificate
• Certificate of no criminal record
• Proof of financial solvency or employment
• Documents confirming ethnic origin (in case of repatriation)

Hungarian citizenship opens doors to the US, Canada, the UK, and the entire EU.

It is hereditary, providing legal and personal protection for the entire family.

It is an excellent alternative for countries with limited access to international programs.

In 2025, Hungary once again became a key point of access to global mobility. If you want to enjoy the benefits of EU citizenship and visa-free entry to the US, we can help you find the best way to obtain a residence permit or passport. Full support, legal grounds, individual approach.

Contact Visa Dan — together we will open borders!

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!