ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the historical development of skilled migration with a specific focus on selected countries in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania where some work has been done. It investigates the relevance and importance placed on language in skilled migration as reflected in the different country and company language policies. The chapter reports on documented language practices in various workplaces and their relationship to existing policies, and the ideologies that underpin such policies. It highlights areas of research that need further focus and attention. The chapter considers the history of the phenomenon of skilled migration, and then explores the history of research into language in skilled migration. It focuses on the sociolinguistic research that made language relevant in skilled migration, not only in the process of seeking and securing employment, but also in regard to the kinds of language policies in place.
