Switzerland: up to about 66 thousand euros per family
The mountain village of Albinen in Switzerland has been attracting new residents with financial incentives since 2018. An adult is offered up to 25 thousand Swiss francs (about 28 thousand euros), and a child – up to 10 thousand francs (about 12 thousand euros).
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For example, a family of two adults and one child could receive about 70 thousand francs (about 82 thousand euros), which can be used for housing or settling in.
However, there are conditions: candidates must be under 45 years old, commit to living for at least 10 years, purchase or build real estate worth at least 200 thousand francs (235 thousand euros), and have Swiss citizenship or a permanent resident permit (C permit).
Still, life here is not for everyone. The village has no school, bank, or post office; only one store and one inn operate.
Chile: up to 74 thousand pounds for startups
To stimulate the economy and innovation, Chile invites creators of technological startups. The country’s program offers a grant worth up to 88 thousand euros, a two-year work visa, mentor support, office spaces, and a business development network.
The program is open to citizens of various countries but is more focused on business than on simple relocation for permanent residence.
Sardinia: up to 15 thousand euros for living in a small town
The Italian island of Sardinia aims to revive dying villages from which young people move to cities.
People who decide to move can receive up to 15 thousand euros in a non-repayable grant for purchasing or renovating housing. However, the compensation cannot exceed 50% of the total project value.
The program applies only to small settlements with fewer than 3 thousand inhabitants. Newcomers must move within 18 months after purchasing or renovating the property.
Additional benefits for families are planned for children – about 600 euros for the first child and 400 euros for the second child up to five years old.
Irish Islands: up to 80 thousand euros for reviving old houses
Ireland’s “Our Living Islands” program is aimed at preserving communities on remote islands. People willing to move can apply for support of 50–80 thousand euros, but the money must be used to purchase and renovate abandoned houses.
Important conditions: the house must have been built before 2007, be empty for at least two years, and after renovation become a permanent residence – short-term rentals, for example through Airbnb, are not allowed.
It is also necessary to have the right to live in Ireland – the program does not provide automatic immigration permission.
Portugal: money for relocation to regions
Portugal encourages people to settle in less populated regions of the country. Under the “Emprego Interior Mais” program, it is possible to receive up to about 5 thousand euros in support for relocation and settlement expenses.
The main one-time payment is about 2.6 thousand euros, with an additional 20% amount for each family member, and compensation for moving expenses is also provided.
However, only persons already legally living in Portugal who enter into at least a one-year employment contract or start a business in one of the designated regions can participate.
Not for everyone and not without conditions
Although such offers may seem like a dream, almost all programs have strict rules – from age limits and commitments to length of stay to the necessity to invest in real estate or have the right to live in the country.
However, for those looking for a new stage of life, wanting to work remotely or exchange the hustle and bustle of cities for a slower pace of life, such destinations can become a real opportunity to start anew.
