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The goal of this paper is to explore normative and empirical arguments regarding the claims
temporary labour migrants can make on the receiving state, focusing primarily on Western liberal
states. The first part of this paper considers whether liberal multicultural policies can accommodate the
needs of temporary labour migrants, ultimately concluding that multicultural models are too limited
and are unable to recognize the membership of ‘undesirable’ citizens, much less that of non-citizens.
Departing from the multicultural model, the second part of this paper explores various normative
stances regarding the treatment of temporary labour migrants, ranging from Nandita Sharma's
endorsement of open borders to Joseph Carens' 'contextual approach' to temporary migrants'
entitlements. The third and final part of this paper concludes by reflecting on policy proposals made by
temporary labour migrants themselves, and considers the feasibility of their proposals in light of the
migration restrictions imposed by receiving states.