The women come from poor nations in Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and Africa. They have to pay immigration fees in execess of  $ 5,000 U.S.  They are often promised legitimate work and a new better life. With no collateral or income the women must borrow the funds from criminal groups to pay lawyers, government fees and physicians for clearance certificates, legal work and passports to immigrate.

The loans are at very high interest rates and there are significant loan fees added. To repay the loans the women are forced into the Toronto sex trade industry. They become captive indentured sex workers employed in Toronto strip clubs, massage parlours and escort agencies. The women keep very little after repaying loans, rent and food. What ever remains is also often sent back home to support kids and family. The sex workers often work more than 40 hours per week without overtime or benefits. Intimidation maintains silence. Some immigrated illegally and are scared to go to authorities. This underground industry supports the sex industry with cheap and plentiful labour.