Europe(Washington Insider Magazine)-In a letter shared by the Hungarian minister for European affairs on social media channel X on Wednesday, Hungary’s home affairs minister Sándor Pintér claims that the National Card scheme – which was recently extended to Russians and Belarusians – would be issued “per the relevant EU framework and with due consideration of the security risks involved”
EU Concerns Over Security Risks
According to Euronews, Ylva Johansson, the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, voiced worries on the prospect that include Russian and Belarusian residents in the program could provide a means of entry for spies or other potential saboteurs into the EU. In a letter dated August 1st, 2022, Johansson issued a warning that the relaxed visa rules could supersede EU security measures implemented during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Among these are travel restrictions and prohibitions on visas for Russian citizens.
Hungary Responds to EU’s Warnings
Hungary has dismissed these concerns, stating that applicants under the National Card scheme will undergo the same rigorous screening as other visa applicants. The government also pointed out that the number of residence permits issued to Russian and Belarusian nationals in Hungary represents only a small fraction of those issued across the EU. Hungary missed an initial deadline to respond to the EU’s concerns but has since communicated with Brussels, reiterating its compliance with Schengen rules.
Brussels Weighs Its Options
The European Commission is currently reviewing Hungary’s responses to assess whether the National Card scheme poses a risk to the Schengen area’s security. While each EU member state can design its visa policies, the Commission may intervene if a country’s actions violate EU regulations. Nordic and Baltic countries have also expressed their concerns, urging the Commission to take action if necessary.
Potential Impact on EU Security Policy
The main worry of the EU is that those who represent significant security risks may be able to enter the Schengen area under Hungary’s visa policy. It is unclear if the Commission will take additional action to remedy possible weaknesses in the visa system and guarantee the preservation of the EU’s internal security while Brussels assesses the circumstances.
