Hungary: Government to lift COVID-19 controls at internal Schengen borders starting June 24 /update 27

Hungary to lift COVID-19 controls at Schengen borders from June 24; other international entry measures remain in place.

Event

Authorities in Hungary plan to lift the COVID-19-related controls currently in place at the nation's Schengen borders starting June 24 provided there is no deterioration in the epidemiological situation. The move will essentially open all border crossings between Hungary and other Schengen countries. Nevertheless, pandemic-related entry restrictions will remain in force; hence, in most cases, only Hungarian nationals and permanent residents will still be permitted to enter the country, with some limited exceptions. Foreign business travelers are permitted to enter Hungary without restrictions. Individuals traveling to Hungary for the Euro 2020 competition are exempt from quarantine but must present a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Most other travelers, including residents and citizens, must quarantine for 10 days on arrival. Incoming travelers who do not have a residential address in Hungary must quarantine at government-designated facilities for 10 days. Travelers may leave quarantine early if two negative COVID-19 tests are presented in the first five days.

Persons who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 are allowed to travel between Hungary and the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Bahrain, Croatia, Montenegro, Ukraine, Morocco, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Turkey without the need to quarantine or test. Travelers must have evidence of vaccination issued by the relevant national authorities.

Domestic Measures
Facemasks remain mandatory in enclosed public spaces including public transport. Hungarian authorities issue "certificates of protection" to individuals who have either been vaccinated against or recovered from COVID-19. Restrictions are less stringent for individuals with certificates of protection; such persons may visit indoor cultural, leisure, and fitness facilities, and be seated at indoor areas of catering establishments. The limit on private gatherings is 50; up to 200 people may attend a wedding. The limit on organized outdoor gatherings is 500.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.