“This Was My Only Option”: Career Transitions of Canadian Immigrants in Same-Sex Binational Relationships

Abstract

This phenomenological study explored the career transitions of 17 individuals who immigrated to Canada. These individuals were in same-sex binational relationships and faced immigration challenges because their relationships were not recognized by the U.S. government. As such, they felt forced to immigrate to Canada and, as a result, had to renegotiate their careers. Results demonstrated that participants faced challenges throughout their career transitions in the United States (student visas, work visas, living undocumented) as well as in Canada (lack of networks, transferability of credentials, presence of discrimination). Participants also discussed their decision to immigrate and how it affected their career transition. Finally, implications for counseling are addressed.

KEYWORDS:

• bisexual
• career transition
• gay
• immigration
• lesbian
• same-sex binational couples