AbijahAre you prepared to start a new life abroad? Picture packing your bags and getting paid to do it. Many developed countries are losing people in rural towns, so they’re inviting foreigners to settle and help these communities grow.
These countries offer cash, cheap housing, and other perks to attract newcomers. In this post, we’ll show you the top 5 developed countries that pay foreigners to move there.
We’ll explain the benefits, who qualifies, and why each option could work for you. Get ready to discover opportunities that may change your future.
Whether you work remotely, start a business, or just want adventure, these programs make moving easier. Let’s dive in and see how you can earn money while enjoying a new culture.
1. Italy
Italy tops the list of countries that pay foreigners to move in. Its beautiful but quiet towns are eager for new residents. Areas such as Calabria, Tuscany, and Sardinia provide substantial financial assistance.
Sardinia: Up to €15,000 to buy and renovate a home in a village with fewer than 3,000 people. You must move within 18 months and live there full time.
Tuscany: For mountain town residences with less than 5,000 occupants, €10,000 to €30,000 may offset up to half of your repair expenses. Applications are open until June 2025.
Calabria: For people under 40, €1,000–€800 monthly for 2–3 years, up to €28,000 total. You must live there and may need to start a business.
Italy also offers €1 homes in Sicily and other regions, but you must renovate within three years. A long-term visa or residency permit is required. Italy wants skilled workers and families to bring life back to its towns. If you love history, food, and the Mediterranean lifestyle, Italy could be your perfect move.
2. Ireland
Ireland pays foreigners to dwell on its remote territory in the sea. Under the Our Living Islands plan, you can get up to €84,000 to fix up an empty home.
The house must be built before 2007 and vacant for at least two years.
You must make it your main home. Island properties get a 20% bonus grant.
You’ll need to arrange your own visa, but once settled, you’ll enjoy strong internet, amazing scenery, and close-knit communities in places like Achill or Inishbofin. If you love peace, nature, and small-town life, Ireland will pay you to settle down.
3. Switzerland
In Switzerland, the mountain village of Albinen offers big incentives for young families.
The amount given to adults below 45 is 25,000 Swiss francs, or approximately $28,500.
Each child gets 10,000 francs (about $11,400).
A family of four could earn up to 70,000 francs.
You must purchase a house for at least 200,000 francs and make a ten-year commitment to reside there. Residency comes first through work, study, or family visas. Albinen supports small settlements and offers beautiful vistas, skiing, and pure air. If you want stability, good pay, and mountain adventures, Switzerland is a great choice.
4. Spain
Spain also pays foreigners to settle in rural areas, from Asturias to Extremadura.
Ponga, Asturias: Families get €3,000 to move in, plus €3,000 for every newborn.
Rubiá: Monthly support of €100–€150.
Extremadura: Digital nomads under 30 get €10,000 grants, plus €5,000 for staying over two years.
Spain’s digital nomad visa makes moving easier. Buying or renovating property boosts your chances. Spain wants skilled newcomers to support its local economies. With sunshine, tapas, fiestas, and affordable living, Spain rewards those ready to join its culture.
5. Japan
Japan encourages foreigners to live in rural towns instead of crowded cities.
The Regional Revitalization Corps offers up to ¥4.8 million worth of assistance while participants earning roughly ¥3 million (approximately $20,000) annually for a period of three years.
You’ll live in small towns, support local projects, and help tourism. A work visa and good Japanese language skills are required. Japan plans to welcome 10,000 participants by 2026. Relocating to Japan pays off if you’re looking for a blend of modern innovation, serenity, and tradition.
In Conclusion
Start with visa research. EU countries like Italy and Spain make entry easier for professionals. Prepare your documents, learn some of the language, and apply early. Contact embassies or program offices directly.
Relocating overseas boosts self-esteem and creates new chances. Compare initial costs with long-term rewards. Many expats thrive and grow global networks through these programs.
Best Countries To Move To With Family And Get Job Opportunities In Europe
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