Andorra and Colombia Advance Direct Hiring Deal for Workers to Tackle Labor Shortages

Andorra and Colombia have advanced negotiations on a direct hiring agreement for Colombian workers, with the government eyeing full operation by late summer to address labor shortages ahead of the winter tourist season.

Head of Government Xavier Espot met Colombian Ambassador Eduardo Ávila Navarrete on May 12 during the ambassador's visit, which featured events for the Setmana de la Diversitat cultural festival spanning May 11-16. The discussions bolstered bilateral ties in tourism and the "hiring at origin" model, aimed at providing stable jobs in sectors facing vacancies, especially hospitality. Foreign Affairs Minister Imma Tor stated the project is in a very advanced phase and could move quickly once Colombia submits a formal text proposal.

Ávila Navarrete told RTVA on May 12 that the deal could be signed in June, enabling recruitment shortly after. Government spokesperson Guillem Casal added on May 13 that final regulatory tweaks and technical preparations are underway, targeting activation by summer's end for efficient, compliant implementation.

Hotels have proposed covering housing, meals, and 50% of flight costs from Colombia, provided workers commit to the full nine-month residence and work permit—spanning roughly December to August to cover both peak seasons. This responds to reduced immigration quotas and the EU's Entry/Exit system. Yuri Katherine Barbosa, president of the Colombian association Colombiand, noted that shorter winter-only contracts made travel uneconomical, but the extended term with subsidies changes that. Applicants need legal Schengen status and registration with Colombia's SENA public training service.

Colombiand has joined talks with hotels and the Chamber of Commerce. Andorra sees Colombia as the pilot partner, with plans to extend the model to other South American countries if successful. No full agreement text has been released, and details remain under negotiation.