Portuguese immigration policy and its effects on labor force integration: a mixed-methods analysis Portugal's post-troika journey, through interviews, policies appealing to foreigners, and labour adaptation

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the immigrant labor force integration in Portugal during the 21st century using a mixed-methods approach. First, a theoretical and historical analysis of immigration trends in Portugal reveals that policies have shifted focus overtime from the regulation of migrants to their integration. Next, a quantitative analysis from the Portuguese Labor Force Survey data reveals an employment gap between immigrants and natives that narrows after several years of residency, as well as a salary gap that varies based on migrants’ region of origin. Finally, semi-structured interviews with policy experts and immigrants offer additional insights about the existing policy-implementation gap.