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What Affects International Migration of European Science and Engineering Graduates?

Author

Listed:
  • de Grip, Andries

    (ROA, Maastricht University)

  • Fouarge, Didier

    (ROA, Maastricht University)

  • Sauermann, Jan

    (IFAU)

Abstract

Using a dataset of science and engineering graduates from 12 European countries, we analyse the determinants of labour migration after graduation. We find that not only wage gains are driving the migration decision, but also differences in labour market opportunities, past migration experience, and international student exchange are strong predictors of future migration. Contrary to our expectations, job characteristics such as the utilisation of skills in the job and involvement in innovation hardly affect the migration decision. When analysing country choice, countries such as the USA, Canada and Australia appear to attract migrants due their larger R&D intensity. Moreover, graduates with higher grades are more likely to migrate to these countries.

Suggested Citation

  • de Grip, Andries & Fouarge, Didier & Sauermann, Jan, 2009. "What Affects International Migration of European Science and Engineering Graduates?," IZA Discussion Papers 4268, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp4268
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    scientists & engineers; university graduates; migration;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration
    • J61 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Geographic Labor Mobility; Immigrant Workers

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