These 3 Countries Will Pay You To Move There: How Much?
Written by
Heather Altamirano
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke
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In today’s constantly evolving tech and remote work world, it’s much easier to pick up and live abroad. Whether you’re seeking a new adventure, a lifestyle change, or a lower cost of living, making the leap has exciting benefits.
On the downside, a big international move can be daunting due to costs, but it’s not as expensive as you think if you move to a location that offers financial incentives. In an effort to tackle declining populations and boost the local economy, some countries will pay you to move there.
Here are three countries that are paying people to relocate, according to Wayne Mills, the head of operations at Seven Seas Worldwide.
Ireland
To help repopulate an area of Ireland comprising 30 coastal islands with just 3,000 people, the country is offering a grant of approximately $88,000 to people willing to live somewhat isolated.
The program is called “Our Living Islands,” and it’s designed to infuse new life and energy into the remote destination that plays a meaningful role in Irish culture. The only way to access the mainland is by sea or air and people who move to the islands must purchase and renovate a house built before 1993 and has been vacant for at least two years.
“This program is for everyone, but it’s especially targeting remote workers and digital nomads,” Wayne stated in a press release. “The Irish government is pledging to improve transport links, internet coverage, and health services as part of an overall plan to invest in the island’s future. They’d love to attract remote workers to diversify the islands’ economies, so if you’re looking for a peaceful yet productive lifestyle, consider having Ireland’s breathtaking coastal views as your office backdrop!”
Japan
Jammed-packed, busy streets and bustling big cities come to mind when imagining Japan, but the country is full of dying towns. According to AP News, Japan’s birthrate has fallen low for the past eight years and government officials are hoping to attract new citizens with their Regional Revitalization Program, which offers people up to $31,000, to move to a rural area.
“A lot of young Japanese people don’t want to go through the hassle of trying to find a buyer when they inherit old family homes, so there are hundreds of traditional Japanese countryside houses offering amazing locations, space, and architecture that are just going to waste right now,” according to Wayne. “This is the perfect opportunity to snap up one of these amazing properties and start an amazing new adventure.”
United States
If you want to stay in the U.S. but want a change of scenery, several states will pay you to relocate.
- Indiana has several small towns offering relocation incentives, such as Noblesville. The city will grant you $5,000 and other perks, such as a season pass for golf, a Forest Park Aquatic Center Season Pass, and more through Make My Move.
- Oklahoma (Tulsa) offers remote workers $10,000 for a down payment on a home or rent through the Tulsa Remote Program.
- West Virginia will pay you $12,000 to live in the scenic state for a two-year minimum commitment through the Ascend WV program. The money can go towards a down payment for a house or rent and will be dispersed accordingly.
By taking advantage of financial offers from other countries or states, you can save on moving costs while embarking upon a fresh start and new adventure.
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