If you’ve ever dreamed of packing your bags and moving abroad, now might be the perfect time. Several countries around the world are offering financial incentives to attract new residents, from remote workers to entrepreneurs and young families. These countries are dealing with declining populations, labor shortages, or economic revitalization efforts, making them willing to pay people to relocate.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore three amazing countries that will pay you to move there in 2024. Whether you’re looking for financial incentives, a better quality of life, or a fresh start, these destinations could be your golden ticket.
1. Italy – Get Paid to Live in Picturesque Villages
Why Is Italy Paying People to Move?
Italy has been facing a significant population decline, particularly in its rural villages. Young Italians are moving to larger cities or other countries for better opportunities, leaving behind towns with dwindling populations. To combat this, many Italian regions and municipalities are offering cash incentives, housing subsidies, and tax breaks to newcomers willing to settle there.
Incentives & Benefits
Several regions have introduced different incentive programs, such as:
- Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abruzzo: This medieval village offers up to €44,000 (USD 48,000) in financial support for people willing to start a business and settle there.
- Calabria Region: This southern Italian region offers up to €28,000 (USD 30,000) to individuals who relocate to its small towns.
- Presicce-Acquarica, Puglia: Offers €30,000 (USD 32,000) to buy and renovate homes in the village.
Who Can Apply?
Most programs require applicants to:
✔️ Be under 40 years old (though some have no age restrictions).
✔️ Commit to living there for at least 3 to 5 years.
✔️ Start a business or work remotely while residing in the area.
✔️ Purchase and renovate a home in some cases.
Cost of Living & Quality of Life
✅ Low Cost of Living: Compared to major Italian cities, rural towns have much lower housing costs and living expenses.
✅ Amazing Culture & Cuisine: Live among breathtaking landscapes, enjoy authentic Italian food, and immerse yourself in history.
✅ Relaxed Lifestyle: Experience “La Dolce Vita” with a slower pace of life and strong community bonds.
Downsides to Consider
⚠️ Bureaucracy: Italy is known for complex paperwork and slow processing times.
⚠️ Limited Job Opportunities: Unless you’re a remote worker or entrepreneur, job options in rural areas are scarce.
⚠️ Language Barrier: While some areas speak English, learning Italian will help you integrate.
2. Portugal – Tax Breaks & Cash for Remote Workers
Why Is Portugal Offering Incentives?
Portugal is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for digital nomads, retirees, and remote workers. The country has introduced programs to attract skilled professionals and boost the economy, particularly in less populated regions.
Incentives & Benefits
- “Come and Settle” Program: Portugal’s government offers financial support of up to €4,800 (USD 5,200) to people moving to rural areas for work or business.
- NHR Tax Scheme: The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax program allows 10 years of tax benefits, including a flat 10% tax rate on pensions and 0% tax on some foreign income.
- Affordable Real Estate: Some municipalities offer low-cost housing programs for newcomers.
Who Can Apply?
Portugal welcomes:
✔️ Digital nomads and remote workers.
✔️ Entrepreneurs willing to open a business in rural areas.
✔️ Retirees looking for low-tax residency options.
Cost of Living & Quality of Life
✅ One of the Cheapest Places in Western Europe: Portugal’s living costs are much lower than in France, Germany, or the UK.
✅ Mild Climate & Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy over 300 sunny days a year and stunning coastlines.
✅ Great Healthcare & Safety: Portugal has top-rated healthcare and is one of the safest countries in the world.
Downsides to Consider
⚠️ Bureaucracy: Getting residency and work permits can take time.
⚠️ Learning Portuguese: English is widely spoken, but Portuguese is essential for local integration.
⚠️ Housing Prices Are Rising: While still affordable, some areas, like Lisbon and Porto, are becoming more expensive.
3. Spain – Relocation Grants for Rural Towns
Why Is Spain Paying People to Move?
Like Italy, Spain’s rural areas are experiencing population decline as younger generations move to cities. To combat this, several regions offer financial incentives, housing aid, and even cash grants to attract new residents.
Incentives & Benefits
- Ponga, Asturias: Offers €3,000 (USD 3,200) per person or €6,000 for families moving to the village.
- Rubia, Galicia: Pays a monthly stipend of €100-€150 per person to new residents.
- Other Rural Programs: Many small towns offer free or low-cost housing to families who relocate.
Who Can Apply?
✔️ Families, remote workers, and young professionals.
✔️ People willing to live in smaller towns for at least 2-5 years.
✔️ Those who embrace rural living and slower lifestyles.
Cost of Living & Quality of Life
✅ Very Affordable Living: Rural Spain is one of the cheapest places to live in Western Europe.
✅ Warm Climate & Mediterranean Lifestyle: Enjoy sunny weather, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere.
✅ Good Healthcare & Education: Spain has a high-quality public healthcare system and excellent schools.
Downsides to Consider
⚠️ Limited Job Opportunities: Unless you work remotely or start a business, finding a job can be tough in rural areas.
⚠️ Bureaucracy & Red Tape: Residency and visa applications take time and effort.
⚠️ Learning Spanish: While major cities have English speakers, rural towns require Spanish fluency.
Final Thoughts: Is Moving Worth It?
Relocating to a new country is a life-changing decision, but if you’re looking for an adventure, financial incentives, and a lower cost of living, these three countries paying you to move could be the perfect opportunity.
Who Should Consider Moving?
✅ Digital Nomads & Remote Workers: These destinations offer cheaper living costs and financial perks if you work online.
✅ Entrepreneurs: Many of these programs encourage new businesses and investments.
✅ Families & Retirees: If you’re seeking a safe, relaxed lifestyle with lower expenses, these locations are excellent choices.
Key Takeaways
- Italy: Ideal for those wanting a picturesque village lifestyle with cash incentives for homebuyers and business owners.
- Portugal: A great choice for digital nomads and retirees with tax benefits and financial support for rural movers.
- Spain: Perfect for those who love Mediterranean culture and are open to rural living, with cash incentives and housing aid.
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