Numerous studies, including in America, Britain, Denmark and the Netherlands, show how the fiscal effect of migration depends on migrants’ skills. Immigrants to the Netherlands pay more in taxes than they take out in benefits over their lifetime only if they have at least a bachelor’s degree. Liberals often say low-skilled migrants are needed to care for the elderly and do menial jobs. But progressive tax systems, in-work benefits and social housing redistribute money to those on low incomes, and permanent migrants eventually grow old themselves, claiming pensions and health care. They also often bring in dependants, who can be a fiscal drain.
The numbers.
