Unregistered labour in tourism: A bibliometric analysis of immigrant workers’ challenges and research trends

Abstract This bibliometric analysis examines the difficulties experienced by immigrants who work as unregistered workers in the tourism industry. The study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of existing research on this issue by examining publication trends, key contributors, and themes of focus. The analysis uses data from a leading academic database, the Web of Science. The research identifies a growing body of literature highlighting various challenges faced by unregistered immigrant workers, such as exploitation, lack of legal protection, and social marginalization. Key trends indicate a rising interest in the socio-economic impact of informal labour and the role of policy in addressing these issues. The analysis reveals significant contributions from researchers in European countries, with notable gaps in longitudinal and comparative studies. This paper not only maps the current state of research but also highlights critical areas needing further exploration, providing valuable insights for policy makers, practitioners, and future researchers concerned with labour rights and migration issues within the tourism industry.