Have your sights set on moving abroad? Well, you’re in luck because there are actually some countries out there willing to pay for your move!
Whether it’s to combat depopulation, revitalize rural areas, or ensure a more prosperous future of a region, you can help these countries so long as you’re willing to relocate and abide a few eligibility requirements.
These are 6 countries that will pay you to move there:
1. Italy 🇮🇹
Italy‘s not just a coveted vacation destination anymore, as it could be your new home with regions offering funds to those willing to relocate.
Candela
Located in Southern Italy, the small town of Candela is home to Casa di Babbo Natale, a Christmas-themed attraction, making the town extra festive during the holidays.
💰 €800 (singles) – 2,000+ (families of four or more)
☑️ Eligibility:
- Rent or buy a home in Candela
- Live in Candela full-time
- Have an earning salary of at least €7,500/year
Sardinia
Sardinia is host to miles of beautiful coastline, natural wonders and world-famous wines.
💰 €15,000
☑️ Eligibility:
- Money must go towards buying/renovating a home in Sardinia that you will reside in
- You must live in a municipality of Sardinia with less than 3,000 residents
- Register for permanent residency after 18 months
2. Chile 🇨🇱
Start-Up Chile is granting entrepreneurs the chance to move to South America.
💰Up to $80,000
☑️ Eligibility:
- Relocate to Chile for at least 6 months
- Must have a scalable start-up (including an executive summary, team details and more in your application)
3. Switzerland 🇨🇭
Relish in Switzerland’s high quality of life, low crime rate and natural beauty by moving there.
Albenin
Escape to the mountain slopes of Switzerland in the beautiful small village of Albenin.
💰 ₣25,000/adult and ₣10,00/child
☑️ Eligibility:
- Commit to living in Albenin for 10 years
- Hold permanent residency permit or become a Swiss citizen
- Under 45 years old
- Home in Albenin must be valued at ₣200,000 minimum
4. Japan 🇯🇵
Japan’s Regional Revitalization Program is offering financial compensation to those willing to move to rural areas of the country. The program intends to combat population imbalances and reinvigorate rural economies.
Mishima
Mishima spans across three islands: Takeshima, Iōjima, Kuroshima.
💰 ¥85,000/month + lump sum of ¥300,000
☑️ Eligibility:
- Expected to live in Mishima for three or more years
- Help contribute to Mishima economy
- 55 years old or younger
5. Ireland 🇮🇪
You may not know it, but Ireland has a network of remote coastal islands detached from the mainland. You can move to one of these islands and get paid through Ireland’s “Our Living Islands” program.
💰 €80,000+
☑️ Eligibility:
- Money must go towards renovating a home built before 1993 that’s been vacant for two years
- 18-65 years old
- Intend to permanently live on the island
6. Spain 🇪🇸
Ponga
This small Spanish town is the perfect place for nature lovers to relocate with UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve Ponga Natural Park, breathtaking hikes, and rich wildlife.
💰 €3,000 (young couples) – additional €3,000/year for each child
☑️ Eligibility:
- Agree to live in Ponga for five years
Be sure to check with each region’s websites to ensure all programs are still accepting applicants and for any further details.