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Networks and Selection in International Migration to Spain

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  • Nina Neubecker
  • Marcel Smolka
  • Anne Steinbacher

Abstract

This paper provides new evidence on migrant networks as determinants of the total size (scale) and skill structure of migration, using aggregate data from a recent migration boom to Spain. We draw upon McFadden (1984, 1422-1428) in order to develop and apply a three-level nested multinomial logit migration model. Our model accommodates varying degrees of similarity of destinations located in the same region (or the same country), allowing for a rich structure of substitutability across alternative destinations. We find strong positive network effects on the scale of migration and a strong negative effect on the ratio of high-skilled to low-skilled migrants. Simplifying restrictions on substitutability across destinations are rejected by the data.

Suggested Citation

  • Nina Neubecker & Marcel Smolka & Anne Steinbacher, 2013. "Networks and Selection in International Migration to Spain," Discussion Papers of DIW Berlin 1306, DIW Berlin, German Institute for Economic Research.
    • Handle: RePEc:diw:diwwpp:dp1306
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    Cited by:

    1. Neubecker, Nina & Smolka, Marcel, 2013. "Co-national and cross-national pulls in international migration to Spain," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 28(C), pages 51-61.
    2. Neubecker, Nina & Smolka, Marcel, 2012. "Co-national and transnational networks in international migration to Spain," University of Tübingen Working Papers in Business and Economics 46, University of Tuebingen, Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, School of Business and Economics.
    3. Björn NILSSON, 2019. "Education and migration: insights for policymakers," Working Paper 23ca9c54-061a-4d60-967c-f, Agence française de développement.
    4. Dorner, Matthias & Harhoff, Dietmar & Hinz, Tina & Hoisl, Karin & Bender, Stefan, 2016. "Social ties for labor market access - Lessons from the migration of East German inventors," IAB-Discussion Paper 201641, Institut für Arbeitsmarkt- und Berufsforschung (IAB), Nürnberg [Institute for Employment Research, Nuremberg, Germany].
    5. Harhoff, Dietmar & Dorner, Matthias & Hinz, Tina & Hoisl, Karin & Bender, Stefan, 2016. "Social Ties for Labor Market Access – Lessons from the Migration of East German Inventors," CEPR Discussion Papers 11601, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    international migration; migrant networks; nested multinomial logit model; skill structure of migration; Spain;
    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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