Brazil Initiates 2026 Humanitarian Repatriation Flights for Nationals Deported from U.S.

First 2026 Repatriation Flight Arrives in Belo Horizonte

Brazil has initiated its humanitarian repatriation operations for 2026, welcoming nationals deported from the United States. The first flight of the year, part of the long-running 'Aqui é Brasil' program, landed at Belo Horizonte/Confins Airport on January 7-8, 2026, carrying 32 Brazilians. This operation marks the continuation of a critical initiative aimed at providing support and reintegration assistance to Brazilians returning home after deportation from the U.S.

'Aqui é Brasil' Program Provides Comprehensive Support

The 'Aqui é Brasil' program, launched in 2019, is coordinated by Brazil's Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship (MDHC) in partnership with several other federal agencies, including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Justice, Social Development, and Health, as well as the Federal Police and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Upon arrival, deportees receive a comprehensive 'safe-landing package' designed to facilitate their dignified reintegration. This package typically includes:

• Temporary hotel accommodation
• Food and hygiene kits
• Medical screening and psychosocial counseling
• Onward tickets to their home states
• Case management for up to 90 days

Officials have noted that smaller cohort sizes on recent flights allow for more individualized assistance compared to some 2025 flights that carried over 80 passengers.

Continued Repatriation Efforts Amid Rising Deportations

Since its inception, the 'Aqui é Brasil' program has organized 38 charter flights, successfully repatriating over 3,100 Brazilian citizens. In 2025 alone, there were between 37 and 38 flights, bringing back more than 3,000 Brazilians, a significant increase of 99% compared to 2024. This trend of increased deportations from the United States is expected to continue throughout 2026. Subsequent flights in January 2026 have also arrived in Belo Horizonte, including one on January 14 with 72 Brazilians, and others scheduled for later in the month. Brazilians are typically deported for violations of U.S. immigration laws, such as illegal entry, visa overstays, criminal convictions, or posing a threat to national security.

Government's Commitment to Dignified Reintegration

The Brazilian government, through the MDHC, emphasizes its commitment to 'dignified reintegration' and continuous support to ensure the human rights of all repatriated Brazilians. The inter-ministerial strategy aims to provide a rapid and coordinated response to forced repatriation situations, ensuring comprehensive support during the return process.