This paper presents progress in the development of crystalline waveguides to enable efficient and integrated quantum memories for long-distance quantum communication. The primary aim is to tackle the difficulties presented by the weak light-matter interaction strength observed in rare-earth ion (REI) doped crystals, specifically in Yttrium Orthosilicate (YSO), which limits optical storage efficiencies. In contrast to other approaches for photonic integration, our method utilizes traditional lithography and dry-etching techniques. This approach maintains the beneficial properties of bulk crystals while offering design adaptability. We refined processes such as bonding, lapping, polishing, and dry-etching to achieve the optimal YSO waveguide structure, as shown in our simulations. This study paves the way for completely integrated quantum repeaters and also improves the integration of other quantum technologies based on REI-doped crystals, including quantum computing, single-photon generation, RF spectral analysis, and microwave-to-optical quantum transduction.