Beyond remittances: the three ways migrants stay connected to home, according to a new study

For millions of people living abroad, maintaining ties with their country of origin goes far beyond sending money. A recent study by Ria Money Transfer explores the cultural and social connections that continue to shape migrants’ lives long after they settle in a new country.

Buena Park, California, May 2026 – Moving abroad often means embracing new opportunities, but it can also mean leaving behind family, traditions, and familiar routines. Despite the physical distance, many migrants find meaningful ways to stay connected to their roots, preserving a sense of belonging that remains an important part of their identity.

The United States is home to more than 51 million foreign-born residents, making it the largest migrant destination in the world. Within this diverse population, connections to home continue to play a significant role in daily life, influencing everything from food choices to community participation and cultural celebrations.

To better understand these bonds, Ria Money Transfer analyzed the experiences and habits that help migrants maintain a connection with their countries of origin. The findings reveal that financial support is only one piece of a much broader picture.

“The relationship migrants maintain with their home countries extends far beyond economic support. Cultural traditions, shared experiences, and community connections remain deeply woven into everyday life.”

The study highlights three key pillars that help sustain these connections across borders and generations.

Food keeps memories, traditions, and identity alive

Among the most visible ways migrants stay connected to home is through food. Traditional dishes often carry memories of family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday life, making them a powerful source of comfort and familiarity.

Across the United States, migrant communities have created businesses that preserve these culinary traditions. Mexican tortillerías continue to produce tortillas using time-honored methods, while Colombian and Venezuelan areperías provide spaces where recipes, flavors, and cultural customs are shared with both community members and new audiences.

These establishments often become more than restaurants or food shops. They serve as cultural meeting points where people exchange stories, strengthen social bonds, and maintain a connection to their heritage. For younger generations, they also offer an opportunity to discover traditions that might otherwise fade over time.

Food also acts as a bridge between cultures, introducing local communities to traditions from around the world and enriching the cultural landscape of the neighborhoods where migrants live.

Traditions continue to unite communities across borders

The study identifies cultural traditions and celebrations as another important pillar of connection.

Although many customs evolve when practiced in a new country, their symbolic value often remains unchanged. Communities continue to organize events, gatherings, and festivals that allow them to celebrate their heritage while adapting to their new environment.

Examples include Día de los Muertos celebrations organized by Mexican communities and Diwali festivities observed by Indian communities throughout the United States. These events not only preserve cultural practices but also create opportunities for people to connect with others who share similar backgrounds and experiences.

For many migrants, these celebrations represent continuity. They provide a sense of familiarity and help strengthen intergenerational ties by passing traditions, values, and stories on to younger family members.

Together, food and traditions demonstrate that cultural identity is not left behind when people move abroad. Instead, it adapts, evolves, and finds new ways to flourish in different environments.

The third factor may be the most influential of all

While food and traditions are highly visible expressions of cultural identity, the Ria Money Transfer study points to a third factor that may play an even greater role in helping migrants maintain a lasting connection to home.

What is it, and why does it remain so important across different communities and generations?

The complete report explores this question in detail, offering deeper insights into how migrants balance life in a new country while preserving meaningful ties to their roots.

About Ria Money Transfer

Ria Money Transfer is one of the world’s leading money transfer companies. Operating in more than 190 countries and territories, Ria provides fast, secure, and accessible international money transfer services through an extensive global network of agents and locations.