Do you want to change your life? The truth is that there are several European countries that pay you to move there. From Spain to Italy, not forgetting Switzerland, the list presented here is a brief summary for those who want to start packing.
However, we advise you to check the prerequisites very carefully. These incentive programs usually involve a long-term stay, among other requirements. It’s also best to check the official websites for each region.
In this context, this article is intended as a starting point, a sort of glimpse of possible destinations. After all, this type of program has emerged as a way for some rural areas to combat desertification and attract new residents.
Spain
The neighboring country has a vast territory, with contrasting landscapes between the big city centers like Madrid or Barcelona and some more remote regions, in the interior of the communities of Galicia and Asturias.
In the more rural areas, the aim is precisely to combat depopulation. In an article in the Spanish version of the Idealista platform, we find some destinations that are trying to attract new inhabitants.
Ponga
Located in the heart of Asturias, near the impressive Picos de Europa, Ponga is a small municipality with around 600 inhabitants and 205.98 square kilometers.
There, they can pay up to €3,000 to young couples, with an additional €3,000 for each child born or adopted in the municipality, who settle in the town for up to five years, among other measures.
Griegos
This picturesque town of only around 200 residents belongs to the Community of Aragon and is a kind of hidden gem among the mountains and mountainous landscape.
Situated at an altitude of over 1600 metres, the local municipality wants to revitalize the town by attracting new residents. How? By facilitating the granting of housing and guaranteeing employment.
Rubiá
Galicia is known for its beautiful Atlantic coastline and fantastic estuaries. However, it is also a land of mountains, hills and enchanted forests, from where people tend to move towards the city, just as they do in Portugal.
In Rubiá, a municipality in the province of Ourense with around 1,300 inhabitants, some incentive programs have been implemented, including affordable rents and a rural employment plan.
Italy
The transalpine territory is for many a dream destination, not only in terms of gastronomy and culture, but also for spending an unforgettable vacation.
But Italy is more than that. Alongside its tourist attractions, you’ll find a land of contrasts and particularities, shrouded in passion.
Sardinia
This is one of the most beautiful destinations among European countries, a true natural wonder, internationally famous for its beaches and wines.
To live in Sardinia, the Mediterranean island offers up to €15,000 for people moving to towns with less than three thousand inhabitants. However, the money must be invested in buying or renovating a home. In addition, it is important to register for permanent residence after 18 months.
Switzerland
Albinen
By tradition, Switzerland is one of the European countries that attracts the most Portuguese. With a solid economy, it’s possible to live well here.
In the Alps, Albinen has sought to retain its population for a period of at least ten years. In this case, some of the eligibility prerequisites are as follows:
- Holding a permanent residence permit or acquiring Swiss citizenship
- Be under 45 years of age
- Purchase a house worth at least 200,000 Swiss francs.
Ireland
Ireland runs a program called “Our Living Islands” to encourage people to move to its remote islands, where a number of abandoned properties need to be given a new lease of life.
In this scenario, Ireland is offering up to 80,000 euros to anyone willing to take refuge on its quiet islands. To do so, you need to meet some of these requirements:
- You must be between 18-65 years old
- The money must go towards rehabilitating a house built before 1993 and which has been vacant for two years.
- Live permanently on the island
Editor’s note: You should check the official websites of each region to make sure the programs are still accepting applications, as well as for more information.