This paper by Anna Maria Mayda examines the determinants of bilateral immigration flows into 14 OECD countries from 1980 to 1995. The study focuses on the impact of average income and income dispersion in both destination and origin countries, as well as geographical, cultural, and demographic factors. Additionally, it explores the influence of changes in destination countries' migration policies. The analysis is based on yearly data from the International Migration Statistics for OECD countries, sourced from the OECD’s Continuous Reporting System on Migration (SOPEMI). The paper contributes to the literature by emphasizing the demand side of international migration, particularly destination countries' policies, and by using the OECD data to systematically investigate these factors. The findings provide insights into the forces and constraints that shape international migration movements, which are crucial for understanding their economic development implications.This paper by Anna Maria Mayda examines the determinants of bilateral immigration flows into 14 OECD countries from 1980 to 1995. The study focuses on the impact of average income and income dispersion in both destination and origin countries, as well as geographical, cultural, and demographic factors. Additionally, it explores the influence of changes in destination countries' migration policies. The analysis is based on yearly data from the International Migration Statistics for OECD countries, sourced from the OECD’s Continuous Reporting System on Migration (SOPEMI). The paper contributes to the literature by emphasizing the demand side of international migration, particularly destination countries' policies, and by using the OECD data to systematically investigate these factors. The findings provide insights into the forces and constraints that shape international migration movements, which are crucial for understanding their economic development implications.