Monetize your move.
Anyone can leave the United States for so-called greener pastures — but the smart money’s on those who turn their departure into a payday, according to one relocation expert.
Sure, you could claim an ancestral connection to Ireland, for example — but why not claim up to nearly $90,000 cash by moving to a part of the Emerald Isle eager for new blood?
“It’s a win-win: you get a fresh start and a helping hand, while local economies enjoy a much-needed boost,” said Wayne Mills of Seven Seas World Wide, which specializes in solutions for international movers.
And while it’s hard to imagine anywhere in bustling, 21st century Ireland being hard up for people, the beautiful and very popular country isn’t the only desirable destination with an unloved corner doling out ducats to willing new residents, according to Mills.
Declining populations, talent drain and other issues have obscure regions in vacation faves like Italy, Greece and Spain rolling out the proverbial red carpet.
Check out this range of surprising destinations that could be your new forever home — and could put some quick cash in your pocket in the process.
Ireland
The country is offering up to approximately $87,000 in the form of cash grants to those willing to renovate and move into a vacant home on a string of scenic coastal islands, according to the expert.
“There are 30 coastal islands whose total population is only around 3,000 people,” Wayne said. “Ireland is looking to revitalize and future-proof these beautiful islands by attracting a newer, younger population.”
Flippers need not apply — you’ll have to live in the house for at least ten years.
“This program is for everyone, but it’s especially targeting remote workers and digital nomads,” Wayne explained. “The Irish government is pledging to improve transport links, internet coverage, and health services as part of an overall plan to invest in the islands’ future.”
“They’d love to attract remote workers to diversify the islands’ economies, so if you’re looking for a peaceful yet productive lifestyle, consider having Ireland’s breathtaking coastal views as your office backdrop,” he said.
Switzerland
If you’re under the age of 45 and don’t mind the idea of life in a small town, the village of Albinen in the Swiss Alps wants you — and wants to pay you $23,000, plus $11,500 for every child that moves with you.
You’ll have to live there for at least a decade, and undergo the rigorous process of becoming a citizen. But what a payoff, right?
“Switzerland is routinely mentioned as one of the safest and happiest countries in the world,” said Wayne.
Spain
So it’s not Andalucia and there won’t be orange trees in your backyard, but none of those cities are offering $3,200 — plus that much again for each young child — for you to move there.
One town in northernmost Asturias, eager to settle families, is reportedly willing to pay, however.
“Ponga is the name of both a town and municipality in one of Spain’s most northern regions, Asturias,” Wayne said. “Ponga is a little off the beaten track for tourists, but its mountainous landscape is absolutely jaw-dropping. It’s the perfect place to live in tune with nature — and the region produces amazing wines!”
Greece
While destinations like Mykonos buckle under the weight of overtourism, the picturesque island of Antikythera is said to be paying people to come — more than $500 per month for a whopping three years after they move in.
“Antikythera has only 45 permanent residents as of right now, so it’s a tranquil and close-knit community,” Wayne divulged. “They really want to attract young families to revitalize their island and bring back some youthful energy, so you’ll no doubt be extremely popular as soon as you arrive.”
Italy
Here’s another country where some destinations — like Venice and Rome — suffer from being loved too much, while other regions remain almost invisible.
Calabria falls squarely in the latter camp — and they are apparently offering $30,000 to anyone willing to live in certain small villages in the uncelebrated region, provided they can start a business or fill an essential job.
There are rules, however — you have to be younger than 40 and you have to move in 90 days after you’re accepted into the program.
“Calabria is on the southwestern tip of Italy, in one of the sunniest and quietest, most picturesque regions of Italy,” Wayne said. “This is the perfect chance to live the dreamy, small Italian village life.”
Meanwhile, in Puglia, the neighboring towns of Presicce and Acquarica will pay new residents as much as $30,000 to buy a house in either, as long. as long as they register their new pad as the primary residence. Got a baby? You’ll get a bonus of $1,080, Wayne shared.
And then there’s Sardinia, vacation paradise — yes, except for those parts of the island where towns are suffering from population loss. Move to one of them (anywhere with fewer than 3,000 residents), buy or renovate a house, and you’ll get $16,200 as a thank you. Just make sure to initiate the process to become a full-time Sardinian resident right away — it’s part of the deal.
“This program aims to attract young people to Sardinia’s charming towns, rejuvenate local life, and keep the Italian countryside thriving,” said Wayne. “Sardinia is one of the most beautiful parts of Italy, and being paid to live there is such an amazing deal, you’d be mad not to snap it up.”
Japan
While it can be difficult to imagine standing in the middle of Tokyo, Japan is full of towns that are suffering from dramatic population loss. The country’s Regional Revitalization Program allows for grants of up to $31,000 to those willing to move to one of those towns, according to Wayne.
“A lot of young Japanese people don’t want to go through the hassle of trying to find a buyer when they inherit old family homes, so there are hundreds of traditional Japanese countryside houses offering amazing locations, space, and architecture that are just going to waste right now,” said the pro. “This is the perfect opportunity to snap up one of these amazing properties and start an amazing new adventure.”
Canada
Cool with the idea of settling in Saskatchewan? The Canadian government wants you — enough to offer $14,400 in tuition reimbursement to those who commit to studying in Canada for four years before permanently moving to one of the country’s least glamorous provinces, which Wayne said is in need of skilled professionals.
