Closing statements by Stella KYRIAKIDES, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, and by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs, on the Hungarian “National Card” scheme and its consequences for Schengen and the area of freedom, security and justice. MEPs review the Hungarian National Card residence permit scheme and its effects on the Schengen area with the Commission and Council. In July, Hungary expanded its National Card residence permit scheme to include nationals from Russia and Belarus. MEPs have expressed concerns that this could lower screening requirements for these individuals, potentially increasing security risks for the Schengen free-travel zone. On 4 September, Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson confirmed to Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs that the Commission is requesting further details from the Hungarian government about this expansion.

statement

Strasbourg

debate

plenary session

Schengen (T2)

EU - Hungary (T)

KYRIAKIDES, Stella (CY, EC)

The Hungarian “National Card” scheme and its consequences for Schengen and the area of freedom, security and justice: closing statements by Stella KYRIAKIDES, European Commissioner, and by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs

SOUNDBITE (English), Stella KYRIAKIDES, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety

SOUNDBITE (English), J&aacute;nos B&Oacute;KA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs