Betting on Canada: the immigration trajectories of Mexican professionals as international students

Abstract

Canada has positioned itself as a destination for thousands of international students from all over the world. Arguably, by offering a relatively affordable education, and an inclusive society. Over the past two decades, the number of international students to Canada has not just increased, but also become more diverse by places of birth, age, marital status, education, and prior occupation. Even though many international students come to Canada when they are single young adults, some arrive with their families leaving behind professional careers back home. Using a qualitative approach, this research explores the motivations that prompt Mexican professionals to come to Canada as international students with their families. The research findings demonstrate that high levels of insecurity in Mexico was the number one push factor that motivated participants to make the decision to immigrate. Furthermore, for many this represents a significant financial investment that can require sacrifices both before and after immigrating. Key words: Mexico; international students; insecurity; immigration; professionals