Since 2021, Hungary’s access to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, and therefore to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), had been restricted.
In early 2021, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revoked ESTAs already issued to Hungarian passport holders born abroad and systematically denied new applications from these travelers.
In August 2023, the Biden administration further reduced ESTA validity for Hungarian nationals, cutting it from two years to one year, while limiting its use to a single entry.
These measures were justified by security concerns raised in Washington.
Hungary once again aligned with other Visa Waiver Program countries
Yesterday, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced that Hungary would fully regain its status in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), “following the completion of steps taken to address security vulnerabilities.”
“Now that the government of Hungary has taken action requested by the U.S. government to address security vulnerabilities, the restrictions imposed by the previous administration have been lifted, and Hungarian citizens now have expanded access to travel between Hungary and the United States,” the DHS explained.
Thus, as of September 30, 2025, Hungarian citizens will once again be able to apply for an ESTA valid for two years and usable for multiple trips.
This decision puts Hungary back on equal footing with the 41 other member countries of the Visa Waiver Program and will significantly ease travel to the United States.
Viktor Orbán: “Visa-free travel to the U.S. is back”
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán immediately welcomed the announcement on his social media.
“Visa-free travel to the U.S. is back. Truly fitting for two friendly nations. Let no one say that friendship makes no difference!” Orbán said enthusiastically.
By emphasizing the value of “friendship” between Budapest and Washington, the Hungarian leader sought to give this development a meaning beyond the technical scope of the ESTA program, framing it as a sign of diplomatic rapprochement between the two countries.
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, stated that “the United States and Hungary have a strong security partnership, and that commitment is reflected in the actions that Hungary has taken to meet the security standards of the Visa Waiver Program.”
“Like President Trump, Prime Minister Orbán is dedicated to keeping his borders secure and vetting who comes into his country. When nations secure their borders, they’re making the entire world a safer place – and they should be rewarded for doing so. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem’s efforts, DHS is reinstituting integrity into our immigration system,” added the Assistant Secretary of the DHS.
An imminent increase in the ESTA fee
While the lifting of restrictions is good news for Hungarian travelers, another change will soon affect all Visa Waiver Program member countries.
As reported by VisasNews a few weeks ago, the ESTA fee will increase from $21 to $40 starting September 30, 2025.
This increase was announced by U.S. authorities as part of a legislative review designed to adjust administrative fees and fund related federal programs.
