Andorra Faces Staffing Crisis as EntryExit System Excludes Half of Hospitality Workers

The introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in Andorra is causing a staffing crisis in the hospitality sector. Starting February 2, 2024, many foreign workers, including those from Argentina, Peru, and Colombia, have left the country due to stricter immigration requirements. This has left hotels and restaurants struggling to fill vacancies.

Entry/Exit System and Its Impact

The EES mandates tighter border controls for non-European Union workers. According to the Andorran government, 23% of job applications have been denied under the new system. However, the hospitality sector reports a more significant concern, estimating that half of the expected job placements are now unfilled.

Concerns from the Hospitality Sector

• Albert Mora, director of Unió Hotelera, highlighted the urgency to recruit new staff.
• The organization is gathering data on how many positions have become vacant due to the EES.
• There is growing anxiety about whether all necessary roles will be filled in time.

Strategies for Hiring Foreign Workers

To address the staffing crisis, the hotel sector is advocating for “hiring at the source,” where workers are recruited from their home countries. The Andorran government plans to implement a pilot program in the first half of 2024, aimed at streamlining the arrival of migrant workers. This initiative will allow for pre-approval of work permits, ensuring that employees arrive with all necessary documentation.

Current Recruitment Challenges

Unió Hotelera asserts that Andorran hotels have experience in international recruitment. However, uncertainties about the EES have caused delays. The immigration department has provided resources detailing the residency status for workers affected by these changes.

Upcoming Winter Ski Season

The Andorran ski season is set to commence on December 5, 2023, weather permitting. Three major ski resorts, Grandvalira, Pal Arinsal, and Ordino Arcalís, anticipate increased visitor numbers this year.

• Projected sales of 2.5 million ski days are expected, surpassing last winter’s total by 180,000 users.
• An investment of €39 million has been allocated for improvements, reflecting an 86% increase over the previous season.
• There is also a focus on enhancing snow production technology and implementing digital solutions.

Impact on Staffing Levels

Grandvalira Resorts currently employs approximately 2,800 staff, of which 2,230 are seasonal workers. The introduction of the EES is anticipated to have a “significant” impact on the hospitality workforce, potentially resulting in some venues remaining closed due to staff shortages.