Living in Exile: The Experiences of Individuals in Same-Sex Binational Relationships in Latin America

ABSTRACT

While migration is a global phenomenon, laws and policies privilege certain groups of migrants over others. For example, at the time of this study, same-sex couples did not have the right to spousal immigration sponsorship in the U.S. Same-sex binational couples faced numerous legal challenges and some migrated in order to remain together legally. It is likely that where same-sex binational couples are living will have an impact on their well-being and their relationships. Thus, a descriptive phenomenology (n = 6) was employed to examine the following research question: What are the experiences of individuals in same-sex binational relationships who live in Latin America in order to be with their partner? The following predominant structures emerged: (a) differential access to immigration; (b) financial and career impact; (c) lack of social support; (d) laws and policies; (e) emotional impact; (f) impact on relationship; and (g) plans for the future.

KEYWORDS:

• Same-sex binational couples
• lesbian
• gay
• sexual migration
• migration
• immigration
• Latin America

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.