Virtus Urges Andorra Government for Rigorous, Sector-Tailored Migration Policy

Virtus, an Andorran political party, has urged the government to create a more planned migration policy aligned with the Principality's real economic demands, particularly in tourism-driven sectors like hospitality and restaurants.

In a statement, the group called for increased rigour, foresight, and legal security in residence and work permit regulations, alongside stable guidelines for companies and employees. Virtus stressed that migration flows must reflect Andorra's economic reality, with temporary worker quotas determined by each sector's specific needs.

The party highlighted recent executive decisions, noting that the Interior Ministry had to revise certain resolutions shortly after their introduction at the start of summer. It argued against such abrupt shifts, insisting on broader consultation with economic stakeholders before new criteria are set.

On passive residency, Virtus advocated distinguishing between different applicant profiles, such as elderly individuals seeking to settle versus working-age people mainly attracted by fiscal benefits. It pointed to changes this legislative term, including a refundable deposit with the Andorran Financial Authority (AFA) and a minimum property purchase requirement, warning that frequent alterations risk legal uncertainty despite applicants' ability to meet financial conditions.

Virtus also targeted inactive firms failing to meet fiscal and administrative duties, such as submitting financial statements, depositing accounts, or filing corporate tax returns. It proposed dissolving these "shell companies" and denying residence permit renewals to their sole administrators.

For initial overseas hires, the party sought protections for companies handling recruitment and costs, preventing staff poaching by competitors until at least the first permit renewal. On family reunification, it recommended an up-to-date census of dependants shared with the Immigration Service from the application stage to avoid irregularities.

The group further called for an updated register of eligible cross-border workers, sector-based quotas for temporaries, and solutions for temporary housing. It proposed strengthening the Immigration Service for better oversight and anticipation of flows.

"Immigration yes, but with order, rigour, foresight, and respect for Andorra's real needs," the party concluded.