UNHCR Survey Shows Only 35% of Venezuelan Migrants in Latin America Plan to Return Home

A recent survey by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reveals that just over a third of Venezuelan migrants and refugees living in Latin America and the Caribbean intend to return to Venezuela, highlighting the complex factors influencing repatriation decisions amid ongoing socioeconomic and security challenges.

Survey Findings: Low Intent to Return Despite Potential Improvements

The UNHCR study, titled “Intenciones de regresar a Venezuela. Marzo 2026,” surveyed Venezuelan migrants across Latin American countries and found that only 35% plan to return home. This figure represents a meaningful minority, while the vast majority remain hesitant to repatriate despite potential improvements in domestic conditions.

Among those considering return, the urgency varies: approximately 9% of respondents plan to return within less than a year, 10% are currently evaluating the option, and 16% expressed a general preference for repatriation.

Primary Motivations and Barriers to Return

For those considering a return, family reunification stands as the leading driver for short-to-medium-term repatriation. Some respondents cited increasing pressures in their host countries, often stemming from their own socioeconomic difficulties while living abroad.

However, significant barriers persist. Insecurity and lack of income are the top concerns, each cited by 22% of respondents as primary deterrents to returning to Venezuela.

Context: Venezuela’s Ongoing Displacement Crisis

Venezuela has experienced one of the largest displacement crises in the world, with millions of citizens fleeing due to political instability, economic collapse, and human rights concerns. The UNHCR survey underscores the deep-seated socioeconomic and security concerns that continue to influence decisions about returning home.

Matthew Saltmarsh, spokesperson for UNHCR, noted during a press conference that while the 35% figure may seem limited, it could translate into a substantial number of individuals given the millions of Venezuelans currently hosted across the region.

Recent Developments and Outlook

As of early 2026, some Venezuelans across Latin America are weighing whether to plot a future back home amid cautious hopes for political change, including the U.S. Ouster of long-time leader Nicolás Maduro. However, many remain wary, citing ongoing uncertainties about safety and economic stability in Venezuela.

The survey findings suggest that any improvement in conditions in Venezuela would necessitate to address both security concerns and economic opportunities to meaningfully increase return intentions among the displaced population.

Key Takeaways

• Only 35% of Venezuelan migrants in Latin America plan to return to Venezuela, according to UNHCR survey data from March 2026.
• Among those considering return, 9% plan to return within one year, 10% are evaluating the option, and 16% have a general preference for repatriation.
• Family reunification is the primary motivation for those considering return.
• Insecurity and lack of income are the top barriers, each cited by 22% of respondents.
• The survey highlights the need for sustained improvements in security and economic conditions to encourage broader repatriation.