Introduction

Legal immigration from Mexico to the United States has been a topic of great interest and debate for many years. The number of legal immigrants from Mexico per year has seen fluctuations over the years, influenced by various economic, social, and political factors. This article aims to explore the trends and reasons behind the changing numbers of legal immigrants from Mexico, providing a comprehensive overview of the issue.

Historical Context

Since the mid-20th century, Mexico has been one of the largest sources of legal immigrants to the United States. The first significant wave of Mexican immigrants began in the 1940s, following the Bracero Program, which allowed Mexican laborers to work in the United States temporarily. Over the years, the number of legal immigrants from Mexico has continued to grow, driven by economic opportunities and family reunification.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 1970, there were approximately 231,000 legal immigrants from Mexico. By 1990, this number had increased to 2.3 million, and by 2019, it reached 6.6 million. This steady increase in legal immigrants from Mexico reflects the country’s long-standing relationship with the United States and the ongoing demand for labor in various sectors.

Economic Factors

Economic factors play a significant role in the number of legal immigrants from Mexico. The United States offers better job opportunities and higher wages compared to Mexico, making it an attractive destination for Mexican workers. The agricultural, construction, and service industries in the United States often rely on Mexican laborers, contributing to the high demand for legal immigration.

Moreover, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has further facilitated the movement of legal immigrants from Mexico to the United States. By promoting trade and investment between the three countries, NAFTA has created more job opportunities in the United States, attracting Mexican immigrants seeking economic betterment.

Family Reunification

Family reunification is another significant reason for the high number of legal immigrants from Mexico. Many Mexican immigrants come to the United States with the hope of reuniting with their families. The U.S. immigration system allows for family-based immigration, which includes spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. This aspect of the immigration process has contributed to the steady increase in the number of legal immigrants from Mexico.

Additionally, the diversity visa program, also known as the green card lottery, provides an opportunity for Mexican citizens to apply for legal immigration to the United States. This program, which is based on random selection, has helped many Mexican families achieve legal status in the United States.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the number of legal immigrants from Mexico per year has been influenced by various factors, including economic opportunities, family reunification, and trade agreements. The steady increase in legal immigration from Mexico to the United States reflects the strong economic and social ties between the two countries. As the United States continues to face labor shortages in certain sectors, the demand for legal immigrants from Mexico is likely to remain high.