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Circular migration has received increasing attention among policy makers over the last two decades. However, to date we know relatively little about the mechanisms underlying circular migration, largely due to data constraints. In this paper, we try to fill this gap in the literature by analysing circular migration between Finland and Sweden using detailed linked register data. This data set covers the years 1987-2005 and provides information on individuals in Finland and Sweden, thus allowing us to follow migrants across national borders. Finland and Sweden are both members of the common Nordic labour market, which means that migrants can move freely between the two countries. We use an event history framework and focus on the first four moves. Specifically, we compare the likelihood of moving for the first, second, third or fourth time and focus on characteristics related to the age at migration, length of stay and the seasonality of movement. Our study shows that migrants remain relatively young, as short time intervals separate the temporary moves. We also find evidence of self-perpetuation of movement and strong seasonal patterns in the movement back and forth between the two countries.

circular migration; free mobility; linked register data