Want Free Money to Move? These 6 Countries Will Pay You
Riya Kumari | Dec 08, 2024, 16:47 IST
Alright, globetrotter, let’s spill some tea—what if I told you that certain countries will literally pay you to move there? Sounds like the setup for a Hollywood romcom, right? A broke protagonist (that’s you) stumbles into a far-off land, falls for the charming village baker, and boom, happily ever after. But no, this is real life, and the baker might just be a tax break. So, if you're tired of shelling out for overpriced coffee in your current city, let’s explore where you can get paid to start over.
Countries offering you money to settle aren’t just being generous because they think you’re cute. There’s always a catch, and it’s often wrapped in layers of legal and logistical requirements: they’re investing in you, expecting you to bring some value in return—be it skills, money, or just plain people power. For starters, these offers often come with strings attached. For instance, you might need to commit to living in the area for a certain number of years, buy or renovate a property, or even start a business. Some programs are hyper-specific about who qualifies—certain age brackets, professions, or family setups . Don’t forget about the paperwork, you'll likely need visas and permits.
1. Italy
Imagine waking up in a picturesque Italian village, sipping espresso while La Dolce Vita literally unfolds in front of you. Some villages in Italy—like Molise and Calabria—are practically begging people to move in, offering up to €28,000 (about ₹24 lakhs). But there’s a catch: you’ll need to start a small business. So, if you’ve been dreaming about that quaint pottery studio or artisanal pizza joint, this is your sign. Bonus? You’ll never have to pay tourist prices for gelato again. Indian citizens are eligible if they meet visa and residency requirements.
2. Switzerland
Yes, even the land of chocolate and watches wants to pay you to live there. Albinen, a Swiss village, offers around ₹17 lakhs per adult and even more if you have kids. But don’t start packing just yet—there’s fine print (of course). You’ll need to be under 45, promise to stay at least 10 years, and invest in property. Think of it as the longest relationship you’ll ever commit to—one that involves stunning Alpine views instead of toxic texts.
3. Canada
Canada isn’t just about maple syrup and politeness—it’s also about boosting rural communities. Some provinces like Saskatchewan offer financial incentives through programs like the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot. You’ll need skills and a job offer, but hey, free healthcare and Tim Hortons await! Plus, if Hallmark movies have taught us anything, it’s that rural Canadian towns are where love stories bloom.
4. Greece
In Antikythera, a tiny Greek island, they’re offering €500 a month (₹44,000) for new residents. Sure, it’s not a fortune, but who needs millions when you’ve got turquoise waters and ancient ruins as your backyard? Just be prepared for a slower pace of life and plenty of unsolicited life advice from Greek grandmas.
5. Japan
Japan has a real estate problem, but not the kind you’re thinking. There are entire ghost villages filled with empty homes, and the government is paying people to move in and revive these areas. Some places even offer free houses. Yes, free. Think of it as the world’s fanciest fixer-upper challenge. Sure, you might need to learn Japanese and master the art of Zen gardening, but where else can you have sushi for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
6. Spain
If the thought of siestas and sangrias hasn’t sold you already, let me add this: there are Spanish villages offering cash to attract young families. Think €3,000 to €5,000 (₹2.6 to ₹4.4 lakhs) just for settling down. Yes, you’ll need kids to qualify, but hey, if you don’t have them, you can always borrow your cousin’s for a while.
Why Are Countries Throwing Cash at You?
These programs aren’t just about philanthropy—they’re about survival. Many rural areas are facing population declines, aging communities, and abandoned properties. You moving in = more taxes, businesses, and life for these places. It’s like being the new kid in school but instead of awkward stares, everyone throws money and bread at you. If your current life feels like a rerun of a bad sitcom, maybe it’s time to take the leap. Sure, moving countries is a big deal, but what’s life without a little adventure? Plus, who wouldn’t want to casually drop into conversation, “Oh, I live in a tiny Greek island now”? Your next paycheck might just come with a postcard view. While many countries offer attractive programs for settling, it's important to remember that gaining full residency or citizenship often takes time. In some places, you'll need to meet specific residency requirements and make long-term commitments before truly settling in. So, patience and planning are key.
1. Italy
Italy
Imagine waking up in a picturesque Italian village, sipping espresso while La Dolce Vita literally unfolds in front of you. Some villages in Italy—like Molise and Calabria—are practically begging people to move in, offering up to €28,000 (about ₹24 lakhs). But there’s a catch: you’ll need to start a small business. So, if you’ve been dreaming about that quaint pottery studio or artisanal pizza joint, this is your sign. Bonus? You’ll never have to pay tourist prices for gelato again. Indian citizens are eligible if they meet visa and residency requirements.
2. Switzerland
Switzerland
Yes, even the land of chocolate and watches wants to pay you to live there. Albinen, a Swiss village, offers around ₹17 lakhs per adult and even more if you have kids. But don’t start packing just yet—there’s fine print (of course). You’ll need to be under 45, promise to stay at least 10 years, and invest in property. Think of it as the longest relationship you’ll ever commit to—one that involves stunning Alpine views instead of toxic texts.
3. Canada
Canada
Canada isn’t just about maple syrup and politeness—it’s also about boosting rural communities. Some provinces like Saskatchewan offer financial incentives through programs like the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot. You’ll need skills and a job offer, but hey, free healthcare and Tim Hortons await! Plus, if Hallmark movies have taught us anything, it’s that rural Canadian towns are where love stories bloom.
4. Greece
Greece
In Antikythera, a tiny Greek island, they’re offering €500 a month (₹44,000) for new residents. Sure, it’s not a fortune, but who needs millions when you’ve got turquoise waters and ancient ruins as your backyard? Just be prepared for a slower pace of life and plenty of unsolicited life advice from Greek grandmas.
5. Japan
Japan
Japan has a real estate problem, but not the kind you’re thinking. There are entire ghost villages filled with empty homes, and the government is paying people to move in and revive these areas. Some places even offer free houses. Yes, free. Think of it as the world’s fanciest fixer-upper challenge. Sure, you might need to learn Japanese and master the art of Zen gardening, but where else can you have sushi for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
6. Spain
Spain
If the thought of siestas and sangrias hasn’t sold you already, let me add this: there are Spanish villages offering cash to attract young families. Think €3,000 to €5,000 (₹2.6 to ₹4.4 lakhs) just for settling down. Yes, you’ll need kids to qualify, but hey, if you don’t have them, you can always borrow your cousin’s for a while.