Uneven professional paths: A study on highly qualified Chinese and Indian migrants in Germany

Abstract

This paper addresses some key factors influencing the career development of highly qualified migrants during their stay abroad. It is based on 44 qualitative interviews with international students and highly qualified migrant workers from China and India, most of whom were temporarily residing in Germany. The findings show that different types of social capital might co-exist and perform multiple functions. Some migrants engage in entrepreneurial activities, availing themselves of links between their country of origin and Europe, which could help them to advance their professional goals. The study found that the political assessment of migrants also plays an important role. The paper concludes that the category of highly qualified migrants is heterogenous which comprises migrants who have different aspirations as well as divergent career trajectories.