Best 8 Countries That Will Pay You to Move There

Today, you can travel and get paid for it. Yes, you heard that right! There are beautiful European countries and places outside Europe that actively offer financial incentives to attract new residents. From cash bonuses and free homes to land and grants, these programs are real opportunities for anyone ready to pack up and start fresh abroad. In this article, we will review the 8 best countries that will pay you to move there.

1. Japan

Japan is known for its bustling cities, but several rural towns are actively seeking families to call home. To encourage relocation, they offer up to ¥1 million (around $7,500) per child. Some regions sweeten the deal with free renovated homes and even farmland.

Life in rural Japan is peaceful, with clean air, beautiful landscapes, and a slower pace compared to Tokyo or Osaka. Also, you don’t have to worry about the standard of living, as health care is excellent, schools are well-managed, and public transportation is reliable even in smaller towns. Job opportunities in rural areas may be limited and often center on farming or teaching English. Still, you can also do remote work with top companies in or outside Japan.

2. Ireland

If you are an English speaker, Ireland is one of the best countries to move to, as you don’t have to struggle with any language barrier. You don’t have to settle for Dublin or Cork. Ireland offers grants of up to €84,000 ($92,000) to individuals or families willing to move to one of its small offshore islands. With over 30 islands totaling fewer than 3,000 residents, these grants are designed to buy and renovate homes.

Life on these islands is peaceful and scenic, perfect for lovers of hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures. The standard of living is high as healthcare and education are reliable. Still, job opportunities are limited as many residents work remotely, run small businesses, or engage in tourism and local trades.

3. Spain

The northern region of Ponga, Spain, is actively combating population decline. They offer £3,000 for every new resident and an additional £3,000 for each baby born. This makes Spain a strong choice for families seeking a fresh start.

Life in Ponga offers a slower pace, clean air, and beautiful mountain landscapes. The standard of living is good, with access to healthcare and schools typical of Spain’s rural regions. Job opportunities are limited, often focused on farming, tourism, or small local businesses. Families seeking a supportive community and financial incentives will find Ponga very attractive.

4. Greece

Antikythera, a tiny Greek island, once had fewer than 24 residents. Families moving there can now receive £500 per month, plus free housing and land. The standard of living is moderate, as basic healthcare and schools are available, but more specialized services require travel to the mainland. Job options are limited, mainly in tourism, fishing, or local crafts. For those who prioritize natural beauty, a tight-knit community, and a slower pace of life, Greece will pay you to move there.

5. Switzerland

The village of Albinen in Switzerland offers up to $70,000 to families under 45 who commit to staying for at least 10 years and to buying or building a home. Switzerland boasts an exceptionally high standard of living, such as world-class healthcare, excellent schools, reliable public transport, and a safe environment. Job opportunities are plentiful in urban centers, but in small villages like Albinen, employment may focus on local services, tourism, or remote work. The cash incentive, combined with Switzerland’s high quality of life, makes this program one of Europe’s most generous relocation offers.

READ MORE: 7 Best Jobs in Europe for Foreigners

6. Croatia

Legrad, a small town in Croatia, offers free land and building plots to families under 40 who commit to staying, making it one of the bets European countries that will pay you to move there. Life in Croatia combines scenic landscapes, historic towns, and a relaxed pace. Standard of living is moderate, with access to healthcare, schools, and public services. Job opportunities in smaller towns are limited, often in agriculture, tourism, or small businesses. However, residents can work remotely. For those willing to build a home from scratch, Legrad is an affordable and rewarding place to settle.

7. Chile

Chile’s Startup Chile program provides up to $80,000 in equity-free funding and a one-year visa for entrepreneurs ready to launch a business. The standard of living in Chile is moderate to high, with good healthcare in cities, decent education, and a growing tech and startup scene. Job opportunities are plentiful in major cities such as Santiago, and remote work and startups are thriving nationwide. For creative professionals and innovators, Chile not only compensates you for relocating but also supports your career ambitions. Click here to begin your application process for the Chile Startup program.

8. Italy

Southern Italy has charming towns eager for new residents. Some villages offer up to £30,000 to people who move in and renovate abandoned homes, and in some cases, houses have been sold for just £1. Life here offers a high standard of living, particularly in food, culture, and climate. Healthcare and public services are reliable, though job opportunities in small towns are limited, often centered on tourism, local businesses, or remote work. For those who love history, culture, and Italian cuisine, Italy makes moving abroad both affordable and exciting.

How to Choose the Right Country That Will Pay You to Move There in

When exploring countries that pay you to move, it’s not just about the cash. Choosing the right place means thinking carefully about your lifestyle, career goals, and family needs. Are you dreaming of bustling city life with vibrant nightlife and job opportunities? Or maybe a quiet countryside with fresh air, open spaces, and a slower pace appeals more to you? Perhaps a peaceful island retreat with close-knit communities is your ideal setting.

Take time to thoroughly research each country’s program. Look at the benefits, cash incentives, free homes, or grants, as well as the obligations, such as the minimum years you must commit to living there. Consider the standard of living, including healthcare, education, public services, and safety. Even a generous relocation program can become stressful if daily life doesn’t match your expectations.

Think about career opportunities too. Some programs, such as Chile’s Startup Chile, are ideal for entrepreneurs and remote workers. Others, like Japan’s rural towns or Italy’s small villages, may require more flexibility if you need local employment, as jobs can be limited in smaller communities. Balancing financial incentives with long-term career prospects is essential to avoid regrets.

Finally, reflect on your personal priorities. Money is tempting, but happiness, comfort, and quality of life matter just as much. Picking the wrong country could cost more than just cash; it could affect your day-to-day life and your family’s well-being.

READ MORE: 11 Top Countries for English Speakers to Move To (And Actually Feel at Home)

Eligibility Requirements: What Most Programs Ask For

Before you start packing, make sure you understand each program’s rules. Most relocation programs have a few common requirements:

• Completing an application – Usually online, sometimes with additional documents.
• Submitting a criminal record check – Most countries require a clean legal history.
• Committing to live in the area for a minimum period – Some towns want newcomers to stay for several years to prevent short-term moves.

For example, Albinen in Switzerland, Ponga in Spain, and the Irish islands all require a long-term commitment to qualify. Knowing these rules upfront helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re fully prepared to meet the program’s obligations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Relocating for Incentives

Moving abroad is exciting, but even small mistakes can jeopardize your eligibility. Keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Moving before receiving official approval – Always wait for confirmation before making arrangements.
• Forgetting required documents – Criminal record checks, proof of funds, or property purchase agreements are often mandatory.
• Overlooking terms and conditions – Programs often have strict rules on residency, property renovations, or children’s age requirements.
• Ignoring eligibility criteria – Make sure you meet age limits, family requirements, or professional qualifications.

Being organized, proactive, and informed makes your relocation smooth, stress-free, and ensures you don’t miss out on financial benefits.

What Country Pays You the Most to Move There?

If cash is a big factor, some countries stand out. Switzerland and Ireland often lead the pack: Albinen, Switzerland, offers up to $70,000 for families who relocate, buy or build a home, and commit to staying at least 10 years. Ireland’s offshore islands grants can reach over $90,000 to buy and renovate homes.

Keep in mind that while these are high financial incentives, they come with long-term commitments. Also consider lifestyle, local culture, and career opportunities alongside the cash reward. A high incentive is only valuable if you can thrive in your new environment.

Is It True That Switzerland Will Pay You to Live There?

Yes! Albinen in Switzerland pays families up to $70,000 to relocate, buy or build a home, and stay for at least ten years. The village is small, scenic, and safe, with a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and quality schools. While it’s not an instant payday, it’s one of the most generous relocation programs in Europe.

What Country Can I Move To?

If you want to relocate quickly with less red tape, Chile and Italy are among the easiest options. The Startup Chile program supports entrepreneurs with up to $80,000 in funding and a one-year visa. It’s ideal for those who can work remotely or run a business. Also, certain Italian towns sell homes for as little as £1 to attract residents. Combined with renovation grants, this program allows you to move almost immediately while building a home and integrating into the community. These programs make moving abroad easier while providing financial support, offering a faster, more flexible path to living in another country.

READ MORE: Best 11 Highest Paying Jobs in Europe for Foreigners

Exploring countries that pay you to move is no longer just a dream. From Japan’s peaceful rural towns to Italy’s historic villages, Ireland’s offshore islands, and Estonia’s digital nomad opportunities, real incentives are waiting for adventurous individuals and families. By carefully considering your lifestyle, career prospects, standard of living, and program requirements, you can choose the right country and enjoy financial support as you start a fresh chapter abroad. With proper planning and research, relocating to a new country can be exciting, rewarding, and life-changing.