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

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

No 1606, GLO Discussion Paper Series from Global Labor Organization (GLO)

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.

Keywords: Migration; occupational downgrading; labor mobility; work permits (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: F22 J24 J61 O15 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-lab
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