Migrant workers in long-term care: dynamics and country variations

Migrant care workers (MCWs) are integral to long-term care systems in high-income countries, yet their roles are shaped by diverse national contexts. This chapter explores how transnational migration of care workers is influenced by socio-cultural and institutional factors unique to each country. We review recent developments in European countries, focusing on how national social policies, labour market conditions, and migration rules affect MCWs’ employment terms and working conditions. After addressing challenges in defining and measuring MCWs’ contributions, we examine key factors driving migration, including push factors from origin countries and pull factors related to the care demands of ageing societies. To highlight national variations, we analyze three care models: the ‘migrant-in-the-family’ model in Italy; the ‘migrant-in-segmented-care-markets’ model in Austria and Germany; and the ‘migrant-in-the-care-industry’ model in Denmark. We conclude by assessing the implications of these models for MCWs and their broader impact on national care systems.