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From Exodus to Employment: Labor Market Transitions and the Role of Work Permits in Colombia

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  • García-Suaza, Andres
  • Mondragón-Mayo, Angie
  • Sarango-Iturralde, Alexander

Abstract

The Venezuelan migration crisis has led to large-scale displacement, with over 2.5 million Venezuelans seeking refuge in Colombia. This study assesses the impact of the PEP on labor market outcomes for Venezuelan migrants. Using data from the EPM survey and a difference-in-differences methodology, the study compares preand post-migration labor conditions. Findings indicate that while PEP holders have increased access to formal ways of employment, it does not significantly mitigate occupational downgrading, as many migrants, especially those with white-collar experience, transition to blue-collar jobs. The results suggest that, although the PEP improves employment access, it does not fully address the quality mismatch between migrants' skills and available job opportunities. The findings underscore the importance of policy initiatives targeting skill development and matching migrants' qualifications with job market needs to enhance labor market integration and reduce inequality.

Suggested Citation

  • García-Suaza, Andres & Mondragón-Mayo, Angie & Sarango-Iturralde, Alexander, 2025. "From Exodus to Employment: Labor Market Transitions and the Role of Work Permits in Colombia," GLO Discussion Paper Series 1606, Global Labor Organization (GLO).
  • Handle: RePEc:zbw:glodps:1606
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Migration; occupational downgrading; labor mobility; work permits;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J61 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Geographic Labor Mobility; Immigrant Workers

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