A Systematic Literature Review of the Experiences of Skilled South Asian Migrant Women Employees

Abstract

This systematic literature review explores the employment experiences of skilled South Asian migrant women in host countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. The study aims to address two central research questions: (1) What barriers do skilled South Asian migrant women face in seeking suitable employment after migration? and (2) How do skilled South Asian migrant women navigate and overcome these work barriers? Using a structured search strategy guided by the keywords 'skilled,' 'South Asian,' 'migrant women,' 'job,' and 'seek,' relevant peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2010 and 2025 were systematically identified across major academic databases. Following PRISMA guidelines, a total of 47 peer-reviewed articles were selected for inclusion in this review. Studies were included if they focused on primary research related to the employment experiences of skilled migrants from South Asian countries, specifically: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Excluded were grey literature and non-employment-related studies.

The synthesis reveals multiple, intersecting barriers, including the devaluation of foreign credentials, limited recognition of prior experience, gendered discrimination, and structural barriers within host-country labour markets. Cultural expectations and family responsibilities further constrain employment participation and advancement. Despite these challenges, skilled South Asian migrant women employ a range of adaptive strategies such as reskilling, professional networking, volunteering, and leveraging ethnic and community connections to re-enter the workforce or attain professional recognition. The review highlights the complexity of their integration journeys, emphasising the intersection of gender, ethnicity, and migration in shaping personal and labour market outcomes.

The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of global talent mobility, offering insights for policymakers, employers, and professional bodies to develop more inclusive credential recognition systems, culturally responsive employment support, and equitable workplace practices. By identifying both barriers and navigation strategies, this review provides a foundation for future empirical research and practical interventions aimed at improving employment equity for skilled migrant women from South Asia.