Hundreds of migrants have once again left Tapachula in southern Mexico, but this time, their destination is no longer the United States. Instead, many are shifting their focus toward building a life within Mexico due to stricter immigration policies and limited access to asylum in the U.S.
The group, made up largely of Haitian migrants, began their journey on foot, hoping to escape difficult living conditions in Tapachula. The city, located near the border with Guatemala, has become overcrowded in recent years as thousands of migrants wait for asylum processing or immigration decisions.
In the past, migrant caravans from Tapachula were largely focused on reaching the U.S. border. However, many migrants now say that changes in immigration policies under Donald Trump have made that goal increasingly unrealistic. As a result, they are adjusting their plans and looking for safer and more stable opportunities within Mexico.
Several migrants shared that they are now aiming for major cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, and Tijuana. These cities are seen as places where they might find jobs, better living conditions, and a chance to process asylum claims more efficiently.
Many migrants say they have spent months in Tapachula without receiving clear responses to their asylum applications. This has led to frustration and a growing sense of uncertainty. For some, leaving the city is the only option left, even if the journey remains difficult and uncertain.
The trend is not new. In March, another large group of migrants also left Tapachula on foot. However, that caravan ended after nearly two weeks when participants reached an agreement with Mexican immigration officials. These repeated efforts highlight the ongoing struggles migrants face while navigating the country’s immigration system.
Since Claudia Sheinbaum took office in October 2024, at least 18 migrant caravans have departed from Tapachula. Despite their determination, none of these groups has managed to travel beyond the southern state of Oaxaca, showing the limitations and challenges migrants continue to encounter along the way.
Haitian migrants remain one of the largest groups seeking protection in Mexico. According to official data, around 127,000 Haitians applied for asylum in the country between 2020 and 2024, making up about a quarter of all asylum requests during that period.
This latest caravan reflects a major shift in migration patterns in the region. While the dream of reaching the United States once drove many migrants forward, changing policies and prolonged waiting times are now forcing them to rethink their plans. For many, Mexico is no longer just a transit country, but a place where they hope to rebuild their lives.