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Entering the United States can be complex, especially for international travellers. In this article, we highlight the latest changes to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), focusing on the shortened validity period and the new restrictions for Hungary citizens of Hungary.

Introduction

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has changed the ESTA's validity period for citizens of Hungary. These changes affect the way Hungarian citizens can travel to the United States. Learn everything you need about the new regulations to make your U.S. smooth.

Background of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. for business or leisure for up to 90 days without a visa. Countries must meet various security and administrative requirements to participate in the VWP.

Main points:

  • Participation criteria: Some of the requirements include low refusal rates for visitor visas, passport security standards, and cooperation on security issues.

  • Traveler requirements: Travelers must have a valid electronic passport, ESTA approval, and a return ticket.

     

What is ESTA?

The ESTA system is an automated system that verifies visitors' eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP. It is mandatory for citizens of VWP countries and must be applied for and approved before travel.

Main points:

  • Application Procedure: The ESTA must be applied online via the official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The process involves filling out a form with personal and travel-related information.
  • Costs and duration: The fee for an ESTA application is currently $21. An ESTA authorization is generally valid for two years unless it is revoked earlier. However, for citizens of Hungary, the validity period has been reduced to one year.
  • Eligibility criteria: Applicants must be citizens of a VWP country, have a valid passport and meet certain security requirements.
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Changes to the ESTA validity period for Hungary

The DHS has reduced the validity period of the ESTA authorization for citizens of Hungary from two years to one year and limited its use to a single entry. These measures were taken due to the Hungarian government's non-compliance with several VWP requirements.

Main points:

  • Background: Since 2017, the DHS has repeatedly found that Hungarian passports have been acquired through fraudulent practices. These problems have been exacerbated by the simplified naturalization procedure, which does not collect sufficient biometric data.
  • Changes: From August 1, 2023, the validity period for all new ESTA applications from Hungary will be limited to one year and can only be used for a single entry. These measures are intended to minimize security risks and improve the monitoring of entries.
  • Consequences: Hungarian travellers must apply for a new ESTA authorization for each trip to the USA, allowing regular updates and checks.

Reasons for the changes

The DHS has found that the Hungarian naturalization process is vulnerable to fraud because it does not include adequate security measures such as fingerprinting and facial imaging. These loopholes have allowed criminals to acquire Hungarian passports and potentially pose a threat to U.S. security.

 

Impact on travellers

The changes mean that Hungarian citizens who regularly travel to the USA must submit new ESTA applications more frequently. This may require additional effort and costs, but it will help increase the security of the USA and prevent fraudulent entries.

 

Key information and updates for 2024

2024 will bring further important changes and updates to the ESTA and VWP, especially for travellers from Hungary. These changes are intended to increase security and make the travel process more efficient.

Main points:

  • New security measures: Introduction of new technologies and procedures to increase security requirements.
  • Changes to the application process: Adjust the application process to prevent fraud and abuse.
  • Important dates: Deadlines and transition phases for the implementation of new regulations.

Entering the United States can be complex, especially for international travellers. In this article, we highlight the latest changes to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), with a special focus on the shortened validity period and the new restrictions for citizens of Hungary.

26.06.2024 Update information: Please note that Hungarian citizens are not allowed multiple entries with an ESTA Visa Waiver even when travelling on cruises (departure and arrival in the USA). Another ESTA application must be submitted.
Since 1 August 2023, Hungarian citizens travelling on cruise ships in the USA must apply for a new ESTA authorisation after entering the country. This mainly affects passengers travelling on MSC cruises. After boarding, the original ESTA authorisation becomes invalid, and a new one must be applied. This regulation can vary depending on the cruise line, for example, Royal Caribbean, which requires only a new ESTA for certain routes.