The year 2025 witnessed one of the largest waves of return migration in Afghanistan's recent history, as over a million Afghans returned from Iran following the expiry of the "Headcount slip" residency permit. This mass influx has placed extraordinary pressure on border provinces, particularly Herat, which serves as a primary reintegration hub. This research was commissioned to move beyond a purely humanitarian lens and investigate a critical development opportunity: how the vocational skills and human capital of these returnees can be effectively harnessed to foster economic growth and strengthen social cohesion. By examining the skills returnees possess, the barriers they face, and the support mechanisms that truly work, this report provides an evidence-based roadmap for Govt, donors, and implementing partners.