On September 16, 2025, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it has restored Hungary’s full status under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. As of September 30, 2025, Hungarian citizens will again be eligible to apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorizations (ESTAs) valid for two years and will be allowed multiple entries to the United States during this time. 

Due to concerns about security vulnerabilities, DHS implemented a policy in 2021 to deny ESTA applications submitted by all Hungarian nationals who were not born in Hungary, going so far as to revoke ESTA approvals for this group. In 2023, ESTA validity for all Hungarians was restricted from two years to one year, and ESTA approvals were limited to a single use. In removing restrictions on Hungary’s designation in the Visa Waiver Program, DHS announced that “… the government of Hungary has taken action requested by the U.S. government to address security vulnerabilities …” 

An ESTA approval is required for all eligible citizens and nationals of designated Visa Waiver Program countries prior to traveling to the United States without a U.S. visa. Upon approval of an ESTA application, the traveler is notified of their eligibility to travel to the United States and to apply for admission for up to 90 days for permissible tourism or business purposes without first obtaining a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.  

 Visa Waiver travelers should carry a copy of their ESTA authorization printout along with their valid passport. Applicants may submit their applications via the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta or via the ESTA Mobile app (available via Apple or Google Play). CBP recommends submitting ESTA applications at least 72 hours in advance of international travel. 

Foster will provide additional updates regarding travel and visa matters via our firm’s website at www.fosterglobal.com.