Philippino guest workers allowed to stay

Written by Christina Vontin

The future of Filipino guest workers in Hungary, who have become an indispensable part of the agricultural sector in particular, has recently seemed uncertain.

A government decree issued shortly before Christmas had laid down strict conditions for the employment of workers from third countries. The regulation stipulates that workers may only come from countries with which Hungary or the EU has concluded a readmission agreement. Alternatively, a country of origin can operate an organisation recognised by its authorities or an office in Hungary that guarantees the return of its citizens in the event of violations of the law.

Last week’s announcement by Foreign Trade Minister Péter Szijjártó brought an unexpected turnaround: the Philippines now fulfils the conditions set out in the government decree. This means that Filipino guest workers can continue to stay in Hungary and new workers can also come from the country. It was not specified in the official gazette which organisation was established or started work between 23 December and 9 January.