‍The government announced the implementation of the "Return Home" plan, an initiative developed within the framework of its migration policy. The Guatemalan Migration Institute will execute the plan in coordination with the institutions that make up the Attention and Protection Council (CAP) and under the supervision of the Vice Presidency of the Republic.

‍The plan includes three key components:

• Immediate humanitarian attention to guarantee basic welfare conditions.
• ‍Linkage with government programs, offering access to services and opportunities that favor their development.
• ‍Spaces for community dialogue to encourage active participation in the construction of local development plans.

‍Consular Services

The GUIDE TO CARE IN THE CONSULAR NETWORK IN THE U.S. AND MEXICO 2025 describes the services available, which include consular assistance and protection, document issuance, consular services, and other services. In addition, the Consulate has a portal with a form for individuals to submit their travel plans and support needs.

‍Plan phases

First phase:
Close to you - Guaranteeing rights "wherever you are."

Promotes contact between the Guatemalan population residing in the United States and the authorities of their country. As part of this effort, the government announced the strengthening of the consular network, with improvements in human resources, infrastructure, and equipment, as well as the opening of new consular missions and the expansion or relocation of existing ones. 

In addition, the consular network will provide the following services in cooperation with the Guatemalan Migration Institute, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Registry of Persons:

• Communication tools to strengthen the link with the migrant community.
• Advice and key information on rights, recommendations, and contingency plans.
• Coordinated work is proposed to obtain passports, DPI, and Guatemalan consular identification cards.

‍Second phase: 

Dignified return - "This is your home. We welcome you with open arms."‍

It begins with the arrival of the deported population in Guatemala at the Reception Center for Returnees in Zone 13, where they are provided with documentation and registration, medical attention, psychological support, clothing, food, and hygiene kits. 

A Registration Center for Returned Migrants will be set up in the Parque de la Industria, which will not function as a shelter, to:

• Identify the needs and capabilities of returnees.
• Provide support for their training and medical evaluation voluntarily.

In addition, attention will be provided through the call center (4214-3566) and a network of temporary shelters in Zone 5, as well as a new shelter in Erick Barrondo Park (zone 7) for stays of 24 to 72 hours. There is also another Reception Center in Tecún Umán, San Marcos.

The following services will be provided:

‍Transportation to significant bus terminals or a stipend to reach their community.

• Documentation and registration to facilitate their reintegration.
• Information on programs and services available for their reintegration.
• Specialized attention to returned family units (provided by the Secretariat of Social Works of the President's Wife - SOSEP) and to unaccompanied children and adolescents (under the care of the Secretariat of Social Welfare - SBS).
• Orientation for victims of crimes of violence, exploitation, and human trafficking in reception centers.
• Information on addiction treatment.

Third phase:
New opportunities - "A new life we start together."

‍This phase seeks the effective reintegration of migrants into Guatemalan society through development opportunities and collaboration with the private sector. The main actions include:

• Profile analysis to channel state support and orient to social programs.
• Access to employment, education, housing, and health opportunities.
• Advice on how to apply for housing, entrepreneurship, and agricultural production programs.
• Pilot community development plan in areas with a high returnee population.
• Promotion of local development with a participatory and long-term approach.

The plan faces challenges

Lack of resources, inter-agency coordination, and the creation of real opportunities for employment, education, and housing are key obstacles. In addition, ensuring dignified treatment and avoiding deportees' re-victimization requires a sensitive and effective approach, as well as strengthening infrastructure and support services in communities of origin.

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