Objectives: This study explores the intimate relationship context in which sub-Saharan young immigrants (18-25) adopt HIV sexual risk behaviors. Methods: Qualitative data from 37 in-depth semistructured interviews and two focus groups were analyzed through an inductive approach and constant comparative analyses. Results: HIV sexual risk behaviors occurred in four types of intimate relationships. However, reasons for taking risks varied by relationship type and also depended on material resources, as well as interactional, cultural, and social dimensions related to sexual socialization and migration. Conclusions: Findings support the importance of considering the intimate relationship context to understand how HIV sexual risk behaviors occur