Struggling South American Migrants in Cancun Resort to Fake Docs

Throughout 2024, Quintana Roo, Mexico, has welcomed a significant influx of South American migrants. These groups, each comprising over a thousand individuals, initially aimed to reach the United States. However, the promise of job opportunities led them to settle in the region instead. Despite this, many migrants are struggling economically, hindering their ability to regularize their stay. Consequently, some are turning to illicit means, such as purchasing counterfeit Mexican documents for around four thousand pesos.

Juan Manuel H., a migrant from San Salvador, revealed that he was offered this alternative to legally work in Cancun. However, he has yet to see the anticipated results and fears exposure. Construction companies and unions have noted the presence of Central American migrants working illegally, often for wages up to 30% less than their counterparts, and without access to benefits like Social Security.

Authorities have identified migrants using counterfeit documents from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to justify their journey to the United States. The National Migration Institute (INM) reports that this year alone, over 5,600 Guatemalans, 3,631 Hondurans, and 135 Colombians have been deported.

Elba González Melo, a human resources expert, suggests that companies in the Mexican Caribbean are implementing stricter screening processes due to the rise in fraudulent documents amongst job applicants. Marilyn Torres Leal, president of Cisvac, noted that they assist approximately 35 South American migrants each week who are attempting to regularize their status via the humanitarian residence card, a process that costs between eight and ten thousand pesos.

Moreover, surveys conducted by civil organizations indicate that 70% of migrants feel unable to utilize their work skills, and 80% lack benefits. Only 40% receive a fair wage, highlighting the challenges they face in their pursuit of a better life in Mexico.