When Ilia Gafarov and Nadia Gafarova plan to open their traditional Russian sauna, known as a “banya”, in Buenos Aires in April, they hope it will solidify their new home in the city. Originally from Vladivostok, Russia, the couple moved to Argentina with their two daughters nine months ago, joining a growing wave of Russian migration to Latin America following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
They intend to invest a substantial portion of their savings into the business and apply for citizenship once they become eligible next year. Ilia mentioned that the Russian community has expanded in Buenos Aires, and there is demand for a banya, as well as interest from health-conscious locals.
As Russia’s conflict in Ukraine enters its third year, more Russian families are choosing to settle in various countries across Latin America, as indicated by recent data on residency visa approvals from Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
Last year, these countries granted temporary or permanent residence to nearly 9,000 Russians, a significant increase from just over 1,000 in 2020.
Some Russian immigrants, like the Gafarovs, are making an impact in their new communities by introducing traditional Russian dishes and cultural practices, such as cooking blini.
Latin America’s lenient visa regulations, lower cost of living, favorable weather conditions, and relative indifference towards international sanctions have made it an attractive destination for Russian citizens seeking to escape the repercussions of the war, despite the geographical distance.
Unlike Europe and the United States, most countries in South America do not require visitor visas for Russians, and extending the standard 90-day stay is usually uncomplicated. While many Latin American nations have criticized Russia’s actions in Ukraine, they have refrained from sending aid or weapons to Kyiv.
Vladimir Rouvinski, a political scientist at Colombia’s ICESI University, noted that what was once an experimental destination for Russians has now become a place where many Russian visitors choose to settle permanently.
Argentina emerged as the top choice for Russian emigrants in the region, issuing 3,750 residency visas to Russian nationals in 2023, compared to just over 1,000 before the conflict began. Mexico and Brazil also saw significant increases in the number of residency permits granted to Russians last year.
Russian immigrants across Latin America are actively sharing advice and information through platforms like the Telegram messaging app, discussing topics such as property investment, business establishment, childcare options, and residency procedures.
This influx of Russian expatriates is starting to shape city neighborhoods, with Russian-owned establishments like cafes and beauty salons appearing in areas like Buenos Aires’ Recoleta and Palermo districts. In Brazil, Russian Orthodox church groups are seeking a permanent priest in Florianopolis, and locals are learning Russian phrases to accommodate the new residents.
For 36-year-old Tatiana Kalabukhova, who relocated from Rostov-on-Don to Mexico City with her partner last December, the presence of Russian cultural reminders in her new surroundings, such as Pushkin Garden, has made the transition easier. Although the family is still adapting to their new life and learning Spanish after residing in the United States for several years, Kalabukhova appreciates the stability and groundedness she feels in Mexico City.
While some Russians in the United States and Europe have encountered anti-Russian sentiment following the conflict in Ukraine, those in Latin America have found alternative means to conduct transactions, such as using cryptocurrencies and Chinese bank cards accepted in the region.
Argentina and Brazil have become popular choices for Russian families due to automatic citizenship laws for newborns, attracting entrepreneurs and expectant mothers seeking to avoid conscription in Russia, especially after recent changes to the military service regulations.
Helena Yaw, a Russian immigrant in Florianopolis, highlighted the economic pressures driving people to invest in foreign assets amidst Russia’s currency depreciation. The shift in focus from traditional investment options to overseas opportunities has prompted many Russians to seek refuge in Latin America.
Overall, the growing presence of Russian expatriates in Latin America reflects a broader trend of international migration driven by geopolitical events and economic uncertainty. As these individuals build new lives in their adopted countries, they contribute to the cultural diversity and economic vitality of their communities.
