Four European Countries That Pay You to Live There: Discover Relocation Grants Up to $82,000

Multiple countries that pay you to live there offer financial incentives to attract new residents. Yes, you read that correctly — local governments across Europe are willing to compensate individuals and families willing to relocate to their communities. From Spain to Greece, Italy to Ireland, these programs present genuine opportunities for those seeking a fresh start abroad. However, each country has specific qualifications and rules you’ll need to follow to receive these funds.

Ponga, Spain: A Mountain Village with Relocation Support

Nestled in Asturias’s river valley, Ponga is a picturesque mountain community recognized as a UNESCO-designated biosphere site. The Spanish government offers approximately $3,100 per person to new residents, though this incentive comes with conditions: you must commit to living there for at least five years before the funds are released.

Keep in mind that Ponga embodies true small-town living — the population hovers around 600 residents, and the nearest major urban center is roughly 90 minutes away. This isn’t a program for those seeking city conveniences, but rather an opportunity for individuals drawn to rural mountain life and close-knit communities.

Antikythera, Greece: Island Living with Free Housing

Positioned off Crete’s northwest coast in the Aegean Sea, Antikythera offers a different kind of European living experience. Greece’s island relocation program allows up to five families to collect approximately $515 monthly for three consecutive years. Beyond the monthly payments, each participating family receives a newly constructed home at no cost.

However, potential residents should understand what island life entails on Antikythera: there are no banking facilities, ATMs, or traditional supermarkets on the island, and access depends entirely on ferry service. This program suits adventurous souls prepared for genuine island isolation, not those seeking familiar infrastructure.

Sardinia, Italy: Mediterranean Living Through Property Investment

One of Europe’s largest Mediterranean islands, Sardinia attracts visitors annually for its stunning coastlines, culinary traditions, and recreational opportunities. Italy’s relocation program enables newcomers to secure around $15,000 in financial support to make Sardinia their permanent home.

To qualify for these funds, several requirements apply: you must select a Sardinian municipality with fewer than 3,000 residents; the grant must be applied toward purchasing or renovating a property, with your personal investment at minimum double the government amount; you must establish full-time residency in the home; and permanent residency applications must be submitted within 18 months of arrival.

Irish Islands: The Largest Financial Package

Ireland’s “Our Living Islands” initiative represents the most substantial incentive on offer, providing approximately $82,000 to individuals willing to settle on one of 30 remote offshore islands. The program aims to ensure “sustainable, vibrant communities can continue to live — and thrive — on the offshore islands for many years to come.”

Eligibility requires that you select an island not connected to the mainland by bridge and purchase a pre-1993 property that has remained vacant for at least two years. The grant funds must go toward refurbishment or renovation work on the property. Importantly, this investment cannot serve as a commercial enterprise — the home cannot become an Airbnb or rental property.

Evaluating Your Options

These countries that pay you to live there represent genuine pathways for European relocation. Each program reflects different priorities — Spain emphasizes rural community rebuilding, Greece focuses on island family resettlement, Italy promotes property investment and municipal revitalization, and Ireland supports island heritage preservation. Success depends on matching your lifestyle preferences with each country’s specific requirements and cultural expectations.