Purpose: This paper aims to assess the effect of vocational training on employability for immigrant groups. Design/methodology/approach: Cognitive test results were computed as factor scores on broad ability variables, and group means were calculated. The effects of cognitive factors and training on employment were investigated in a series of regression equations. The development of employment was estimated in a growth curve model. Findings: There were considerable group differences in mean cognitive estimates. The influence of training on employment was beneficial for all groups. Training courses at different levels of complexity had different long term effects. Research limitations/implications: A replication with information on grades or other training outcome measures should be useful. Replication studies with other groups should be conducted, such as replication with a more balanced proportion of male and female participants. Practical implications: Immigrant groups benefit from vocational training despite entering with lower skills. Different long term influence on employment rates could influence choice of course. Originality/value: This paper contributes information on cognitive achievements and training outcomes for immigrants in working life, an area where much more knowledge is needed. It provides support for the praxis of granting vocational training to immigrants with language skills considerably below those of comparable native groups. It also shows that courses at different levels of complexity have different long-term impact, which can be useful information in a cost-benefit perspective. (Contains 3 tables and 2 figures.)