Why Do Some Bangladeshis Choose the USA Over Other English-Speaking Countries?
Introduction
People from all around the world aspire to move to the United States due to the abundance of job and business opportunities. Bangladeshis are not excluded from this global trend. However, the choice of the United States as a destination for many Bangladeshis often sparks curiosity and questions. In this article, we will explore why Bangladeshis choose the USA over the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia despite the presence of significant Bangladeshi communities in these countries.
Job and Business Opportunities
The first and foremost reason why Bangladeshis migrate to the USA is the plentiful job and business opportunities. The United States has one of the most diverse job markets in the world, with a wide range of industries and sectors that cater to various skill sets and backgrounds. Moreover, the entrepreneurial spirit in the USA provides avenues for Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to start their own businesses and contribute to the economy.
Motives for Migration to Other Countries
While the USA is a preferred destination, Bangladeshis in the UK, Canada, and Australia also have their own reasons for choosing these countries. These motives often include personal and professional factors, as well as historical and economic considerations.
United Kingdom
For many Bangladeshis, the UK may be a preferred destination due to the presence of family connections and a historical familiarity with the British Empire. The UK offers a high standard of living and a well-established healthcare and education system. Indeed, many immigrants move to the UK to work and pay taxes in good faith. However, there are others who might be less scrupulous and are simply seeking an easier path or a free ride.
Canada
Migration to Canada is often facilitated by the relative simplicity of the immigration process compared to other countries. Many immigrants come to Canada with high educational qualifications, but due to the closed job market and the widespread refusal to recognize foreign qualifications, many eventually move to the USA, the Middle East, or sometimes the UK. The Canadian government places stringent requirements on immigrants, which include health and education parameters, which may not be met by many Bangladeshi applicants.
Australia
Australia presents a unique case. While there are many well-educated and professional Bangladeshis in the country, the stringent immigration requirements make it difficult for many Bangladeshis to be accepted. The stringent health and education parameters set by the Australian government are often obstacles that potential immigrants cannot overcome.
The USA: A Standout Destination
Another key reason for the preference towards the USA is the diversity of job opportunities and the existence of a USA Diversity Visa Lottery (Visa Waiver Program). Unlike the UK, Canada, and Australia, the USA offers a unique opportunity through the Diversity Visa Lottery, which allows individuals from countries with lower rates of immigration to the USA to apply for a green card. This program, combined with the dynamic job market, makes the USA an attractive destination for Bangladeshis.
Conclusion: While Bangladeshis can be found in significant numbers in the UK, Canada, and Australia, the USA remains a preferred destination due to its diverse job opportunities, straightforward immigration processes (through the Diversity Visa Lottery), and a culture that values hard work and entrepreneurship.