The extent of labour force participation of women with a Turkish migration background in Germany is lower than that of women of other ethnic origins or that of non-migrant women. In this study, we focus on a within-group comparison of the labour force participation among Turkish women. Using data of the Generations and Gender Survey (2005/ 2006), we distinguish between first and second immigrant generations. The study pays special attention to both the human and social capital approach and aspects of intergenerational transmission and solidarity between generations. In line with the human capital theory, a strong increase in labour force participation can be noted among women belonging to the second migrant generation: Whereas only about 34 per cent of first generation immigrants participate in the workforce, the share among the second generation amounts to about 60 per cent. In addition to family status and education, mothers’ employment is found to increase the likelihood of the daughter’s participation in the workforce. Also, more egalitarian gender role attitudes favour a higher degree of employment.