Comparing the characteristics of migratory flows to Spain and other European Union countries

Abstract

Rationale Spain has become one of the European countries with the highest inflows of immigrants relative to its population. This article compares the characteristics of immigrants to Spain with those to other European Union (EU) countries, by origin, gender, age, education and labour-market contribution. Takeaways •In Spain immigrants are mainly from Latin America and are a more homogeneous and culturally proximate group to the destination country than in other European countries. In general, they are older, have a higher educational attainment level and women account for a larger share. •Since the global financial crisis, the average age and the educational attainment level of immigrants in the four main EU countries has risen, doing so more sharply in Spain. •The participation rate of non-nationals residing in Spain is one of the highest in the EU and, unlike in other countries, it is higher than that of the nationals, meaning they contribute more to the increase in labour supply. •Non-national workers tend to be concentrated in activities that do not require a high level of education, although recently there are indications of a slight shift to higher-qualified sectors.