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This publication describes the evolution of the notion of repatriation which developed in the middle of the nineteenth century, and was later fortified by protections instituted by the nationstate towards its members. While first utilised to aid destitute travellers with their return to France, one century later, this policy had taken on a new meaning: the policy of repatriation was used to aid individuals returning from the newly emancipated colonies. The apogee of this public policy was reached with the return of French people to the metropolis in 1962 at the independence of Algeria. For these individuals, this policy facilitated the recovery of socio-professional status.