Knowledge of the local language is politically emphasized by immigration countries as a prerequisite for the successful integration of migrants. Research on academics who have migrated to Germany and Canada shows that while knowledge of the local language is important, it is not the key to integration. Academically qualified migrants also face many other power structures that complicate or even prevent their placement in positions corresponding to their qualifications. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that proficiency in other languages represents a creative element in labor market positioning.