Current Trends and Patterns of Female Migration: Evidence from Mexico

Abstract

This study uses a new source of data to assess trends and patterns of female migration from Mexico. Data were collected from migrants interviewed in ten Mexican communities from 1987 through 1990, as well as from outmigrants from those communities who were later located in the United States. The first part of the analysis examines changes in migrant behavior throughout the 1980s by estimating trends in the probability of first-time and repeat migration and by assessing the impact of the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) on these trends. In general, migration probabilities were lower for women than those reported elsewhere for men, but the evidence suggests that, like men, once women begin migrating, they are virtually assured of migrating on a second trip. Results from the departure models in the second half of the article suggest that recent female migration reflects access to the productive resources in Mexican society and a process of family migration whereby women migrate after their husbands and fathers legalized as part of IRCA.