In the Nordic countries, activities for newly arrived refugees and family migrants are organized within introduction programmes and the question of which type of activities works for this group has recently gained increased attention. The programmes typically include language training, courses in civic orientation and labour-market-related activities. This contribution first describes how the introduction programmes are organized and which activities are included. It then summarizes research findings concerning the effectiveness of these activities. A recurring conclusion is that subsidized employment in the private sector is effective but that there is scope for increasing its use among immigrants.