What is Internal Migration?

Internal migration refers to the movement of people from one location to another within the same country. This can encompass a variety of reasons, such as seeking better job opportunities, changing living conditions, or a desire for a different environment, but crucially, the movement does not extend across national borders.

The clarification of internal migration emphasizes that it involves permanent moves or substantial long-term relocations, rather than transient or temporary movements. Moving to a different country pertains to international migration, which distinguishes it from internal migration. Meanwhile, migration driven by economic opportunities abroad pertains specifically to international contexts, and temporary movement for seasonal work typically involves a short-term commitment and often includes returns to the original location. Thus, internal migration aligns specifically with the concept of moving within one's own national boundaries while potentially involving permanent residency in a new area.