Argentines in Andorra Face Family Reunification Barriers

**Andorra la Vella** – A group representing Argentines living in Andorra has highlighted significant obstacles to family reunification, with 16 families forced to return to their home country since October after failed attempts to bring minors to join them.

The collective Argentinos en Andorra reports that these cases stem from strict residency rules, particularly the lack of invitation letters required for relatives to join established households. Richie Ponce, a leader in the association, emphasised the critical role of these documents in completing reunification processes, noting they are not being issued despite being a key requirement.

Marcelo Ponce, president of the group, told ATV that the issue has already been raised with authorities, expressing hope for a resolution over time. He pointed to existing bilateral treaties that protect family reunification rights, describing them as inalienable for immigrants. Ponce criticised the current regulations for their vagueness, which he said allows discretionary application based on shifting priorities. This ambiguity, he argued, enables officials to expand or limit permits despite international agreements that should ensure baseline protections.

The association is calling on the government for greater transparency and fuller compliance with commitments made to international bodies, to prevent such forced returns—especially those involving children.

In related efforts, various national associations, including Argentinos en Andorra, will contribute to a youth forum study examining challenges faced by people who leave their countries of origin for work abroad, focusing on the hardships of living far from family.