Need a holiday but strapped for cash? Well, you’re in luck! Several countries will pay you to move there and work remotely, or set up your business. Yes, really.
There’s no better way to change the everyday 9-5 than by upping sticks and moving abroad. And with remote working possibilities on the rise, there’s never been a better time to reach for your passport.
Whether it’s sunning yourself in Sicily or meandering through Mauritius, read on for a list of countries that will pay you to move there, a summary of each offer, and what you can expect if you decide to take the plunge.
Countries Looking for Remote Workers
Switzerland – Grants up to almost $60,000
With a population numbering just 262 (as of December 2023), the picturesque village of Albinen wants to incentivize workers and families to join its diminutive community – with grants of up to $57,957 available.
The setting is breathtaking, with easy access to the Alps, as well as larger cities like Geneva and Zurich. Not only that, but the Swiss way of life is the envy of the world. The country boasts a healthy economy, great infrastructure, generous vacation allowances, and strategic proximity to European markets.
However, set your expectations accordingly. The scheme has proved so popular that officials are receiving hundreds of applications a day, so it might take them a while to get around to yours.
Here’s how you can get involved:
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- Swiss citizenship or permit C residence, which can take up to 5 years to obtain.
- Under the age of 45.
- Must commit to living there as primary residence for 10 years.
- Chosen property must have a value of at least $214,593.
You can find more info and submit an application here.
Spain – $3262 per person
The Spanish town Ponga – which sits in the northwest of the country – will pay $3262 to individuals who choose to relocate there. If you decide to have children, there’s an additional $3262 for each baby.
The population is small, numbering fewer than 1000, but the views are out of this world. Situated in the mountainous Asturias region, Ponga is famed for its lush greenery, rugged coast, and stunning medieval architecture. The Spanish climate and cuisine really need to be seen to be believed. All in all, it’s a fantastic opportunity that will satisfy your wanderlust.
To be considered, you’ll have to commit to living in Ponga for a minimum of five years. Visit the official municipal government website for more information.
Greece – $550 a month
The so-called ‘Cradle of Western Civilization,’ Greece is heralded as one of the most beautiful countries in the world. And for good reason. Boasting thousands of islands across the Aegean and Ionian seas, Greece is a place of blue skies, delicious food, and stunning architecture.
One of those islands, Antikythira, is undergoing a restoration, with houses to accommodate five families under construction. The island will give successful applicants $550 a month for two years to move to one of these houses. As of August, the program is not yet live – but it is expected to officially launch soon.
You can find more information on the official Kythira Tourism Department website.
Canada – $14,568 in tax rebates
Right on America’s doorstep, the Canadian province of Saskatchewan has a unique scheme aimed at enticing international graduates to relocate. The Graduate Retention Program (GRP) welcomes college alumni from an exhaustive list of approved institutions around the world, including many in the US.
Scheme members will receive $14,568 in tax rebates upon completing their move. This is payable over 7 years, with recipients getting 10% of their rebate for each of the first four years. If that isn’t enough to tempt you, Saskatchewan is also home to cheap living expenses, beautiful scenery, and a bustling job market.
For instructions on how to apply for this amazing opportunity, visit the official Saskatchewan government website.
Italy – €1 house!
Okay, this country isn’t paying people to move there, but actually, what it does offer could be even better.
World-renowned for its stunning food and historical attractions, Italy is also the pioneer of the €1 Houses project. This scheme pairs fortunate recipients with – as the name suggests – €1 housing. That’s just over a $1 for your own Italian property. The catch? Most of these properties are in need of a lick of paint, to say the least. But you know what they say – one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
Participating regions include Lombardy, Piedmont, Lazio, Tuscany, Sicily, and many more. If you like beautiful charcuterie, scenic views, and classical architecture, settling in Italy might just be for you. Check out the list of eligibility criteria below:
- Plan a renovation project within 1 year of purchase.
- Cover renovation costs.
- Complete renovation within designated timeline.
- Provide a $5900 deposit for the renovation period.
Find a full list of participating cities and apply here.
Countries Looking to Attract New Businesses
Chile – Up to $80,000
Chile is known the world over for its natural beauty – from the breathtaking mountains of Patagonia to the epic Atacama Desert, and everything in between. But did you also know that it’s home to a burgeoning technology sector with substantial investment?
Startup Chile, for example, is an innovation accelerator program offering a variety of grants for fledgling entrepreneurs. Eligible businesses can get up to $80,000 from the scheme. To be considered for selection, applicants must:
- Fill out and submit a form detailing your business.
- If successful, participate in an interview.
This is in addition to obtaining all the relevant work and residency permits. Check out the Startup Chile website for more information on how to apply.
Mauritius – $433 plus one staff salary
Start-up businesses could do a lot worse than relocating to Mauritius. Just east of Madagascar, this beautiful island is offering $433 to any small businesses that make the move. And that’s not all. If you hire a successful graduate of the local SME scheme, their wages will be covered for an entire year.
With its sandy beaches and gorgeous weather, Mauritius is a tantalizing prospect. Add a thriving economy, great schools, and free healthcare into the mix, and this opportunity becomes unmissable.
To be considered, applicants must:
- Present your business idea to a committee to determine its viability.
And that’s all! You can find out more and submit an application here.
