Countries That Will Pay You to Move There: Your Ultimate Guide to Relocation Bonuses
Believe it or not, several countries around the world are actively offering relocation bonuses, grants, and financial incentives to attract new residents. Whether they’re trying to revitalize rural communities, increase their workforce, or grow their economies, these countries are making it easier—and more appealing—for people like you to make the leap.
In this guide, we’ll break down where to go, what you can get, and how to qualify. If you're thinking about relocating, this could be your golden opportunity.
🌍 Why Are Countries Paying People to Move?
From aging populations and shrinking workforces to rural areas at risk of disappearing, some countries are offering financial incentives to attract new residents, particularly young professionals, remote workers, families, and entrepreneurs. These incentives often come in the form of:
Cash grants
Housing subsidies
Tax breaks
Startup funds
Visa benefits
Countries That Will Pay You to Move There
1. Italy – Small Town Revitalization Programs
Incentive: Up to €44,000 (approx. $47,000 USD)
Italy is known for its beautiful countryside, historic towns, and... empty villages. Many rural Italian towns, especially in regions like Sicily, Calabria, and Molise, are offering cash incentives or even selling homes for €1 to encourage relocation.
Who qualifies: Individuals or families willing to move to small towns, often under the condition that you renovate a property or start a business.
How to apply: Each town has its own rules. For example, in Calabria, applicants must be under 40 and agree to relocate within 90 days of approval.
👉 Example: The town of Santo Stefano di Sessanio offers up to €44,000 to young professionals and remote workers.
2. Spain – Rural Relocation Grants
Incentive: Housing subsidies and startup funds
Spain is battling a “ghost town” problem—hundreds of small villages are nearly empty. To combat this, areas in Galicia, Castilla y León, and Aragón are offering incentives to people who relocate, especially families and entrepreneurs.
Who qualifies: Remote workers, families with children, entrepreneurs.
How to apply: Local municipal programs; check with town or province-specific offers.
3. Portugal – Interior Grants and the NHR Tax Regime
Incentive: Up to €4,827 (~$5,100 USD) for remote workers + major tax breaks
Portugal offers a Relocation Support Program for remote workers moving to its less populated interior regions. It also has a favorable Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, offering up to 10 years of tax benefits.
Who qualifies: Remote workers, entrepreneurs, retirees.
How to apply: Through Portugal’s IEFP portal and/or local government channels.
4. Ireland – Remote Work Village Incentives
Incentive: Free coworking space + relocation packages (varies)
The “Connected Hubs” initiative in Ireland aims to attract remote workers to scenic rural towns by offering coworking spaces, tax relief, and community incentives.
Who qualifies: Remote workers willing to live in smaller towns.
How to apply: Via the Digital Ireland program and associated coworking hubs.
5. Japan – $7,500 USD to Families Moving to the Countryside
Incentive: Up to ¥1 million (approx. $7,500 USD) per child
Japan offers generous incentives for families moving from major cities to rural towns, especially if you’re willing to work or start a business in the community.
Who qualifies: Families, entrepreneurs, young workers.
How to apply: Through the Japan Regional Revitalization program or city-specific initiatives.
6. South Korea – Returnee and Rural Relocation Grants
Incentive: Housing support + startup funding
In an effort to populate rural regions, the Korean government offers relocation grants and low-interest loans to people (including foreigners) who move and work in the countryside.
Who qualifies: Residents and foreigners with valid visas.
How to apply: Local government offices or Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs.
7. Canada – Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Incentive: Pathway to Permanent Residency + job and relocation support
Canada’s Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is designed to bring skilled workers to smaller communities in provinces like Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
Who qualifies: Skilled workers with job offers in participating communities.
How to apply: Apply through RNIP-participating towns + immigration portals.
8. United States – Small Towns Offering Cash to Remote Workers
Incentive: Up to $15,000 USD in cash and benefits
Some U.S. towns are offering relocation bonuses to attract remote workers and entrepreneurs. Popular programs include:
Tulsa Remote (Oklahoma): $10,000 cash + coworking space
Topeka, Kansas: Up to $15,000 for homebuyers
Northwest Arkansas: $10,000 and a mountain bike
Who qualifies: Remote workers and entrepreneurs.
How to apply: Via city-specific relocation programs.
Tips for Qualifying and Applying
Do Your Research
Each incentive program has its own criteria. Make sure you check the official websites or local government pages.Have a Plan
Most programs require you to live in the area full-time, start a business, or contribute economically in some way.Be Prepared to Relocate Quickly
Some programs (especially in Italy and Japan) require you to move within a few months of acceptance.Learn the Language
While not always required, speaking the local language will make integration and finding opportunities easier.
Bonus: What to Consider Before Moving
Before jumping into a relocation incentive program, ask yourself:
Does the cost of living match the incentive offered?
Can I work remotely or find a job in the new area?
What’s the healthcare, visa, and residency situation like?
Am I looking for a quiet rural life or a bustling urban setting?
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Yes, but with research and the right expectations.
Relocating for a cash bonus or relocation incentive can be a smart move—especially if you’re ready for a lifestyle change or are already location-independent. While not every program offers a huge payout, many provide a soft landing, tax breaks, and a higher quality of life than you may currently have.
💬 Have Questions or a Story to Share?
Have you moved abroad for a relocation bonus—or are you thinking about it? Drop a comment below with your experiences. Let’s talk about building a better life—somewhere new.
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