The Impact of Currency Exchange Rates and Canadian and U.S. Unemployment Rates on Non-Immigrant Visas from Canada to the U.S.

Authors

  • W. Andrew Harrell Center for Experimental Sociology, University of Alberta, Edmonton Alberta
  • Jennifer A. Boisvert Center for Experimental Sociology, University of Alberta, Edmonton Alberta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25336/P6C60G

Abstract

Changes in immigration rates by Canadians from 1989 to 2006 were examined for three non-immigrant visa categories. Cross correlation functions (CCF) were calculated relating changes in numbers of visas to changes in Canada-U.S. currency exchange and unemployment rates. Regression analyses tested Han- Ibbott’s (2005) model of immigration decision-making and a variation of Herrnstein’s (1961) matching law. CCF analysis found that currency exchange and unemployment rates were predictive of changes in immigration rates. Regression analyses indicated that a devalued Canadian dollar discouraged migration to the U.S. These findings have implications for Canada-U.S. inequities in bilateral immigration under NAFTA, with Canada experiencing a greater drain in human capital.

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Published

2009-12-31