Countries That Pay You to Move There

Imagine you get a fresh start in a new country that pays you to move there… Albinen, Switzerland, offers up to $54,000 for families, while Sardinia, Italy, provides $15,000 grants. The U.S. state of Vermont pays remote workers up to $10,000 to relocate. Discover the top countries that pay you to move and start your next chapter with government-backed incentives!

Italy’s population has been declining over the past two years. In 2023, the population decreased by approximately 0.28%, followed by a 0.29% decline in 2024. 

Italy has introduced the €1 Home Scheme, which allows people to buy homes in rural areas for a very low price. The goal is to increase the population and improve these towns by encouraging new people to move in.

Similarly, Japan has seen a steady drop in its rural population, with a 1.57% decrease from 2022 to 2023. To address this issue, the Japanese government has launched special programmes that offer financial rewards to people willing to settle in rural areas. 

The idea of countries paying people to move there has become very popular in recent years. As remote work becomes more common and some regions see fewer people living there, different countries and towns have started offering financial incentives to attract new residents.

These programmes aim to help local economies, bring back people to areas losing population, and make small towns and villages more lively again. For those who have always wanted to live abroad, these schemes can make moving more affordable—or even profitable.

Why there are places that will pay you to move there

It may seem surprising that some places pay people to move in, but there are real reasons behind these offers. Many towns and regions struggle with problems like ageing populations, people moving to cities, and slow economic growth. By offering financial incentives, these places hope to attract skilled workers, business owners, and families who can help their communities thrive.

Governments and local authorities create these programmes for several key reasons:

• Declining Population – Some small towns and villages are losing people, especially younger residents. New families and workers are needed to keep local businesses and services running.
• Economic Growth – More residents mean more money spent in local shops, higher tax revenue, and better regional development.
• Lack of Skilled Workers – Certain areas need more professionals in industries like healthcare, technology, and education.
• Revitalising Rural Areas – Some places want to attract people from big cities to bring life back to small communities and create stronger local economies.

Top 10 Countries That Pay You to Move There

Several countries that pay you to move there offer financial incentives to attract new residents. These programmes support economic growth, revitalise underpopulated areas, and encourage skilled workers to relocate. Below are ten countries providing relocation grants, business incentives, and housing schemes.

1. Italy – Rural Home Incentives

Italy has several programmes to attract new residents to its small rural towns that are losing population. The most famous initiative is the €1 Home Scheme, which allows individuals to buy houses for a very low price, as long as they agree to renovate them within a certain period. These houses are usually located in villages in regions such as Sicily, Sardinia, and Calabria.

Additionally, some towns offer direct financial support to attract new residents. For example, Santo Stefano di Sessanio in the Abruzzo region provides grants of up to €44,000 ($52,000) to people under 40 who move there and start a business. Other benefits include tax reductions and housing subsidies to help newcomers settle comfortably.

2. Spain – Pay-to-Live Villages

Several villages in Asturias and Galicia offer financial support to encourage families and professionals to relocate. In Ponga, Asturias, new residents receive up to €3,000 ($3,500) per adult and an additional €3,000 ($3,500) per child. The goal is to bring more young people to the village and boost the local economy.

In Rubiá, Galicia, young professionals and remote workers who move to the town can benefit from financial assistance and housing support. These programmes attract individuals looking for a slower-paced lifestyle while still having access to Spain’s modern infrastructure and healthcare system.

3. Greece – Antikythera Island Programme

The Greek island of Antikythera, located between Crete and the Peloponnese, is offering direct payments to attract new families. This scheme, supported by the Greek Orthodox Church and the local government, provides a monthly allowance of €500 ($560) for the first three years.

New residents also receive free housing in one of the island’s traditional stone houses, along with food supplies and essential household items. The initiative mainly targets young families and skilled workers, such as carpenters, builders, and fishermen, to help sustain the island’s economy.

4. Switzerland – Albinen Relocation Grant

Albinen, a scenic village in Switzerland’s Valais region, offers one of the most generous relocation grants. Adults moving to Albinen can receive CHF 25,000 ($25,000), while each child receives CHF 10,000 ($10,000).

To qualify for the grant, applicants must be under 45 years old, commit to living in Albinen for at least 10 years, and invest at least CHF 200,000 ($225,000) in a local property. The programme aims to increase the village’s population by attracting long-term residents who will contribute to the community.

5. Ireland – Remote Work Incentives

Ireland’s Our Rural Future Plan is designed to attract remote workers and entrepreneurs to smaller towns and villages. The government offers grants of up to €80,000 ($92,000) for new businesses, along with financial support for setting up home offices.

There are also tax incentives for self-employed individuals who move to rural areas. This initiative is part of Ireland’s effort to spread economic growth beyond major cities and make rural areas more attractive to remote professionals.

6. United States – Tulsa Remote Programme

The Tulsa Remote Programme in Oklahoma provides a $10,000 grant to remote workers who agree to live in Tulsa for at least one year. Participants also get free access to coworking spaces and housing assistance.

Similar programmes exist in other parts of the United States. Vermont offers up to $7,500 in relocation grants, while Alabama’s Shoals area provides $10,000 to attract tech professionals. These initiatives aim to bring skilled workers into smaller communities, boosting local economies without increasing unemployment.

7. Chile – Startup Chile

Chile operates one of the most successful relocation programmes for entrepreneurs. The Startup Chile initiative offers grants of up to $40,000 to new business owners. Successful applicants also receive a one-year visa, mentorship, and access to business networks and investment opportunities.

This initiative is designed to make Chile a leading technology and business hub in Latin America. Entrepreneurs whose businesses show strong potential for long-term success may also qualify for additional funding.

8. Canada – Atlantic Immigration Programme

Canada encourages skilled workers to move to less populated areas through the Atlantic Immigration Programme (AIP). This scheme focuses on four provinces:

• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Prince Edward Island
• Nova Scotia
• New Brunswick

Benefits of the programme include fast-tracked permanent residency, financial incentives for skilled workers, and tax benefits. The AIP is particularly attractive for professionals in healthcare, technology, and education, offering long-term career opportunities in growing industries.

9. Portugal – Madeira Remote Work Programme

The Madeira Digital Nomads Village offers a special relocation programme for remote workers and freelancers. Participants receive subsidised housing in scenic coastal towns such as Ponta do Sol.

Other benefits include tax advantages under Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) scheme and access to coworking spaces and business networks. This programme is ideal for individuals seeking a low-cost, tax-friendly location with a warm climate and strong digital infrastructure.

10. Japan – Regional Revitalisation Grants

Japan’s government is encouraging people to move from overcrowded cities like Tokyo to rural and semi-rural areas. The Regional Revitalisation Grant provides up to ¥1 million ($9,000) per individual and up to ¥2 million ($18,000) per family.

Certain regions, such as Hokkaido and Kyushu, offer additional financial support for entrepreneurs starting small businesses. These incentives are part of Japan’s long-term strategy to balance urban and rural development while supporting regional economies.

How can you apply?

If you’re interested in moving to one of these countries that pay you to move there, the application process varies depending on the programme. Here are some general steps to help you get started:

1. Research the programme: Each country or region has specific requirements and benefits. Make sure you understand the eligibility criteria, such as age, profession, or family status.
2. Prepare your application: Most programmes require a detailed application, including proof of income, a CV, and a statement of intent. Some may also ask for a business plan or proof of remote work.
3. Check visa requirements: Ensure you meet the visa requirements for the country you’re moving to. Some programmes may offer assistance with the visa process, but it’s essential to understand the legal requirements.
4. Plan your move: Once approved, start planning your relocation. This may include finding housing, arranging transportation, and setting up a bank account in your new country.
5. Settle in: Many programmes offer support to help you integrate into the local community. Take advantage of these resources to make your transition smoother.

Final thoughts 

The idea of countries that pay you to move there is an exciting opportunity for those looking to start a new chapter in their lives. Whether you’re a remote worker, an entrepreneur, or simply seeking a change of scenery, these programmes can make your dream of living abroad a reality.

From Italy’s charming villages to Japan’s serene countryside, there are plenty of options to explore. By taking the time to research and apply, you could find yourself living in a new country with financial support to help you settle in. So, if you’ve ever considered relocating, now might be the perfect time to explore these unique opportunities.

Countries that pay you to move there are not just offering financial incentives—they’re offering a chance to be part of a community, contribute to local economies, and experience a new way of life. With careful planning and preparation, your move could be the start of an incredible adventure.