Andorran Hoteliers Cautiously Optimistic on Foreign Worker Pilot Scheme
Andorra's Hoteliers' Union welcomes a government pilot allowing up to 450 foreign hires from non-Schengen countries to ease winter labor shortages, though costs may limit uptake. The union is informing members and monitoring results.
Key Points
- UHA president Jordi París sees benefits for some hospitality businesses from the program offering up to 450 jobs.
- Workers from non-Schengen countries need 2+ years experience and pre-validated contracts up to 9 months.
- Companies cover 50% travel costs and provide accommodation; union calls it a 'thermometer' to monitor.
- Pilot addresses ongoing labor shortages amid summer staffing tensions in Andorra's hospitality sector.
The Andorran Hoteliers' Union (UHA) has expressed cautious optimism about a government pilot scheme for hiring workers from abroad ahead of the winter season.
UHA president Jordi París indicated that some hospitality businesses could benefit from the programme, which offers up to 450 jobs deducted from the winter seasonal worker quota. Workers must come from non-Schengen countries, have at least two years of documented professional experience, and arrive with a pre-validated employment contract. Contracts can last up to nine months, and companies must cover 50% of travel costs while providing accommodation.
"Probably, some companies will be able to take part," París told the Andorran News Agency (ANA), adding that the initiative might fit the hiring policies of certain establishments. He stressed the need to monitor the pilot's performance before considering changes, describing it as a "thermometer" to gauge its potential.
The UHA has already begun informing its members about the scheme, encouraging those interested to assess its suitability. París noted that it represents an additional option, though not ideal for everyone given the associated financial costs. The union has submitted proposed adjustments to the government but declined to detail them, prioritising the launch for evaluation.
This comes amid ongoing labour shortages in hospitality, with the sector facing challenges in delivering adequate summer services and reporting heightened "tension" over staffing, as París previously highlighted to ANA.
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