The Hungarian government spokesperson announced on Friday (June 5) that the government will cease issuing work visas to individual citizens of the Philippines, Georgia, and Armenia, calling it the first step in regulating the influx of foreign workers.
Led by Prime Minister Peter Magyar, the Tisa Party decisively defeated right-wing leader Viktor Orban in the Hungarian election on April 12, ending Orban’s 16-year rule.
The Tisa Party previously stated that they will stop issuing visas to non-EU workers starting in June.
Spokesperson Vanda Szondi stated at the press conference on Friday that the government will tighten the employment opportunities for foreign workers out of concern that they may depress the wages of local workers.
According to official statistics, foreign workers account for only 2% of the Hungarian workforce, but some industries, such as the service and manufacturing sectors, heavily rely on foreign labor.
The government will amend regulations to allow labor companies to simplify the process for hiring workers from the Philippines, Georgia, and Armenia starting this Friday.
However, foreign employees already in positions can still apply for extensions, and applications for foreign employees that have already been submitted will be assessed first.
The government described this reform as the first step towards a long-term solution.
Some of Hungary’s largest foreign investors have expressed concerns that a complete halt to the entry of foreign workers could impact businesses and the overall economy of the country.