As of June 5, the Hungarian government stopped issuing work visas to workers from the Philippines, Georgia and Armenia. This was reported by Reuters with reference to a statement by government speaker Wanda Shchondi.
According to her, this decision is the first step towards tightening regulation of the influx of migrant workers. Budapest stated that in this way they seek to control the labor market and prevent pressure on wages.
At the same time, the share of foreign workers, according to published information, is approximately 2% of the country's workforce, but in some industries, in particular in the services and manufacturing sectors, their role is significant.
The government is also changing rules that made it easier for companies to attract workers from these countries. In this case, already issued permits remain in force, and submitted applications will be considered.
The decision is called part of long-term reform of migration policy. At the same time, some foreign investors warn that limiting the influx of labor could negatively affect the country’s economy and business environment.
