Quito , Venezuelan migrants in Ecuador are contributing significantly to the country’s economy an estimated $900 million annually yet many remain trapped in informal jobs and vulnerable conditions, according to a new report by the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The study highlights that 441,000 Venezuelans currently reside in Ecuador, with households paying nearly $47 million in taxes each year. Their economic impact has been amplified by inclusive public policies that streamline documentation, recognize academic credentials, and expand access to formal employment and financial services.

Despite these gains, challenges persist. Over 70% of Venezuelan migrants are aged 18–39, yet two-thirds work informally, and only 30% are employed in their field of expertise. Women face even greater disparities, with nearly 70% working informally and many earning below the minimum wage.

The report also places Ecuador’s experience within a global context, noting that remittances worldwide have surged from $128 billion in 2000 to $831 billion in 2022, with the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Switzerland among the top sources. India remains the leading recipient, receiving over $111 billion in 2022.

The findings underscore the need for continued investment in migrant inclusion and labor protections to ensure that economic contributions translate into long-term stability and dignity for displaced populations.