The main objective of this paper is to present and discuss preliminary results of the research project “The space of professional interventions and agents addressing ”the immigrant” in Denmark 1970- ”. The paper will clarify the way in which different groups of welfare state professionals act, assess and facilitate processes around “the immigrant” on behalf of the public interest. The research question guiding the paper is: What characterises the variety of welfare state work and welfare state professionals engaged in interventions targeting “the immigrant” since 1970, and what activities, viewpoints, missions, judgements and justifications do these professionals promote?