South American-Croatian women show biggest interest in moving to Croatia

South American women most eager to return to their roots

ZAGREB, 17 Oct (Hina) – The greatest interest in moving to Croatia to live among descendants of Croats in South America is shown by younger adults, particularly women aged between 26 and 35, according to a survey by the Institute for Migration Research (IMIN).

According to data from the Central State Office for Croats Abroad, there are around 850,000 descendants of Croatian emigrants living in South America.

Most are in Argentina (around 300,000), followed by Chile (200,000), Peru (196,000), Brazil (80,000) and Paraguay (27,000), according to the Office’s website.

IMIN, a scientific research institution that systematically monitors migration trends, conducted the survey in cooperation with the Office in 2023 and 2024.

The findings indicate that “a large number” of descendants “wish to live, work and invest in Croatia,” the Institute said in a statement.

The strongest interest comes from younger adults, especially women aged 26 to 35, who view Croatia as a safe and desirable place to live, work and raise children, IMIN reported.

The main motives for relocation include employment, starting a business, investment opportunities and children’s education, while some respondents are considering returning upon retirement.

More than two-thirds of participants hold higher education degrees, and nearly all expressed a willingness to take on any job while learning the Croatian language.

The survey included 687 respondents from several South American countries: 251 from Chile, 132 from Peru, 120 from Argentina, 73 from Brazil, 44 from Bolivia, 34 from Paraguay, 18 from Venezuela, 10 from Uruguay and 5 from Colombia, according to the statement.

Around 22% of respondents already hold Croatian citizenship

Around 22% of respondents already hold Croatian citizenship, 13% are in the process of obtaining it and an additional 3% have expressed their intention to apply.

The research highlights a particularly strong interest in online Croatian language courses prior to relocation, demonstrating a high level of preparedness and motivation for integration, IMIN reported.

The research revealed that Croatian identity and emotional ties to the homeland remain exceptionally strong.

Respondents proposed the creation of a digital platform for the diaspora, offering all relevant information and guidance on return and integration in both Spanish and English.

“The findings of the study show that descendants of Croatian emigrants from South America represent a valuable demographic, cultural and economic potential for Croatia. Their interest and connection with the homeland confirm the importance of further developing policies that will facilitate their return and integration,” said Dr Marina Perić Kaselj, Director of the Institute for Migration Research and head of the study.

The research, entitled Measures for the Immigration, Integration and Employment of Croatian Emigrants and Their Descendants from South America, was carried out in partnership with the Croatian Chamber of Commerce and the University North, with the aim of developing a pilot model for the immigration and integration of third-, fourth- and later-generation Croatian descendants.