The job search and investments of immigrant families

Abstract

This paper examines the post-migration investments in schooling and job search of immigrant families using new longitudinal data for Australia. Higher education levels at time of arrival are associated with a greater probability of enrolling in school after migration. In households where the visa category would suggest that post-migration investments may be important, we find higher rates of school enrolment and job search. Traditional gender roles appear to dictate which partner makes the investments in formal schooling. However, comparative labor market advantage, captured by principal applicant status appears to dictate which partner makes greater investments in job search.