As the U.S. grapples with this issue, it is interesting to see how other countries, especially with regard to how language training affects labour market integration:

Germany: As in the past, integration services focus largely on language training. There is little evaluation with respect to the effectiveness of this kind of training and it is generally not linked to labour market needs. Indeed, the scarce empirical evidence suggests that language training in Germany may not be very effective as a means of labour market integration.

Sweden: Improving the efficiency of language instruction so as not to overly prolong labour market entry and ensuring that proficiency requirements reflect actual occupational needs are matters of some importance.

Australia: The principal integration aid is provided in the form of language training, which is generally open to all immigrants in need of this. In spite of the comprehensive training provided, there is little measurement of its effectiveness with respect to employment.

Denmark: municipalities have to offer a three-year introduction programme to immigrants from outside the European Economic Area, which consists of language courses and a range of labour market integration measures. Indeed, the strong emphasis on labour market integration in the introduction programme is particularly noteworthy.