Can You Really Get Paid to Move to Spain?
A Deep Dive into Spain’s Rural Relocation Program and Financial Incentives
Yes, you can get paid to move to Spain—but there’s more to the story than just a free house in the countryside. Spain is facing a major rural population crisis, and to fight it, several towns are offering cash incentives, housing support, and grants to attract new residents—especially remote workers, entrepreneurs, and families.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Europe, working remotely from a quiet Spanish village, or launching a small business in a charming town, this opportunity could be for you.
Why Is Spain Paying People to Move to Rural Areas?
Rural Spain—often called “España vacía” or “Empty Spain”—has been losing population for decades. Entire villages across regions like Galicia, Aragón, Castilla y León, and Asturias now have fewer than 100 residents. Schools are closing. Businesses are disappearing. Local governments are desperate to bring life back.
That’s where relocation incentives come in. These aren’t one-size-fits-all, but they generally include housing subsidies, monthly rent assistance, cash grants, and startup support for people willing to live and work in these towns.
What Kind of Incentives Are Available?
Free or Subsidized Housing
Some villages offer completely free housing for a fixed period (typically 3 to 12 months), while others provide heavily subsidized rent.
Example: In Griegos, Aragón, new residents were offered 3 months of free rent, followed by a monthly rent of just €225 (around $245 USD).
In Rubiá (Galicia), rent subsidies can reduce costs to €150–€200/month ($165–$220), especially for families with school-aged children.
Cash Grants for Moving and Starting a Business
Many towns offer financial support to help cover relocation costs, renovate homes, or launch a local business.
Grants typically range from €2,000 to €10,000 ($2,200 to $11,000).
Some places offer extra cash bonuses for each child brought into the community to help revive schools and local services.
In Ponga (Asturias), couples were offered €3,000 ($3,300) just for moving there—plus another €3,000 per child born in the town.
Support for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads
Towns are not only looking for families—they’re also actively targeting remote workers and digital entrepreneurs who bring income with them.
Perks may include:
High-speed internet installation grants
Coworking spaces in rural buildings
Assistance with residency paperwork (especially for non-EU citizens)
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The rural relocation programs are open to both Spanish nationals and foreigners, including:
EU/EEA citizens
Non-EU residents with valid long-term visas or remote work permits
Entrepreneurs willing to set up shop in the town
Families with children, often prioritized due to school closures
Applicants must usually:
Commit to living in the village for a minimum of 1–2 years
Participate in community life or local economic development
Be self-sufficient or willing to start a viable local business
Notable Villages Offering Incentives
Here are some real-world examples of villages offering financial perks:
What’s the Catch?
Before you pack your bags, here’s what you should know:
Infrastructure is limited: These towns often have basic healthcare, few schools, and limited public transport.
Bureaucracy: The application process can be slow. Some towns don’t have the resources to handle many inquiries.
Social adaptation: You’ll be living in close-knit communities where integration matters. Spanish fluency helps.
Opportunities vary: Each town has its own rules, perks, and expectations. Some prioritize families; others focus on job creation.
How to Find a Village Offering Relocation Incentives
There’s no central government program, so you’ll need to do some digging.
Best Resources:
Volver al Pueblo – A Spanish-language site that connects people to rural towns offering homes and jobs.
Local town halls (Ayuntamientos) – Reach out directly via email or phone to inquire about current offers.
Regional Development Agencies – Especially in Galicia, Aragón, and Castilla-La Mancha.
Remote Work Spain and Spain Digital Nomad Visa – Relevant for freelancers and location-independent workers.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you're looking for:
Lower cost of living
Peace and quiet
A fresh start or business opportunity
A supportive community with government backing
Then moving to rural Spain could be a great fit. The money on offer—while modest—is a genuine effort to rebuild local economies and attract long-term residents. You won’t get rich, but you can get a home, some help, and a unique life experience in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
Just make sure you research thoroughly, visit in person if possible, and understand what each village expects in return.
