Migration-related factors could be additional risk factors for the development of depression and suicidal behaviour in migrant populations. In particular, the success or failure of migration will impact on migrants’ mental well-being. The premigration experiences, the act of migration itself, the motive for migration, postmigration experiences and the structural prerequisites in the host country play a central role. On the basis of the results of a population based study on the factors associated with mental distress in female Turkish migrants in two German cities (Berlin, Hamburg) the impact of migration-specific factors on the expression of mental distress will be discussed. Factors which will be examined among others are, reasons for migration, residence status, perceived ethnic discrimination and acculturation strategies, socio-economic status and traumatic experiences (pre- and post-migration).