In recent migration research, a rigid neoclassic econometric mainstream has been established, which is becoming more and more subject to critique. The main idea of this work is the integration and operationalization of different critical migration theories, in order to test their strength of analysis in comparison to mainstream neoclassic economic theories. Rather than applying a combination of rational choice and a framework of push and pull factors, Migration strategies are conceptualized as a series of ad-hoc decisions taken at critical nodal points, which are in turn provided by a dynamically evolving migration system. The meta-analysis of about 30 mid-range studies on migration in Poland and Germany of different subjects and academic fields shows distinct types of migration strategies, their development over time and the obstacles and dangers many migrants encounter.