Countries That Pay Foreigners to Move There in 2025
Introduction: Get Paid to Move? It’s Real in 2025
Have you ever dreamed of starting over in a new country—and getting paid to do it? In 2025, several countries around the world are offering financial incentives to attract foreign residents, skilled workers, and remote professionals. These offers range from cash grants and tax breaks to free housing, childcare, or business support.
The reasons vary. Some countries are trying to reverse population decline, others aim to boost rural development, while some are building digital nomad-friendly economies. If you’re open to relocating, the opportunity to move abroad and be paid for it has never been better.
In this post, we’ll explore 10 countries that pay foreigners to move there in 2025, along with the benefits, eligibility, and how to apply.
Why Do Countries Pay People to Move There?
Countries and cities offer relocation incentives for a few main reasons:
- Population Decline: Aging populations and low birth rates require fresh talent.
- Rural Revitalization: Many rural or underdeveloped towns need people to keep services alive.
- Remote Work Movement: As remote work grows, governments are capitalizing on location-independent workers.
- Economic Growth: Some nations see immigration as a way to attract entrepreneurs and boost local businesses.
Top Countries That Pay Foreigners to Move There in 2025
1. Italy – Rural Towns Offering Up to €30,000
Italy is still at the forefront of relocation incentives in 2025, especially in southern regions like Calabria, Sicily, and Molise.
✅ What They Offer:
- Cash incentives ranging from €15,000 to €30,000.
- Affordable homes (some for €1).
- Business support for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
📝 Requirements:
- Move to a town with fewer than 2,000 residents.
- Commit to living there for at least 3 years.
- Some programs require you to start a small business or work remotely.
2. Spain – Cash and Housing for Rural Migration
Spain’s “Emptied Spain” program continues into 2025. Regions like Castilla y León and Aragon are offering incentives to repopulate abandoned villages.
✅ What They Offer:
- Grants up to €20,000 for families.
- Free or subsidized housing.
- Tax reductions and business aid.
📝 Requirements:
- Settle in an eligible rural area.
- Commit to long-term residency or job creation.
3. Japan – Up to ¥1 Million per Person for Relocating
Japan is battling severe population decline in rural areas and is expanding its “relocation support grant” in 2025.
✅ What They Offer:
- Up to ¥1,000,000 (~$7,000) per person or ¥3,000,000 for families.
- Extra bonuses for remote workers and tech professionals.
📝 Requirements:
- Move from a metropolitan area to a rural town.
- Must be self-employed or working remotely.
4. Portugal – Cash and Housing for Remote Workers
Portugal continues to attract digital nomads and expats through its interior mobility incentives and Digital Nomad Visa.
✅ What They Offer:
- Relocation grants up to €4,800.
- Subsidized housing in rural areas.
- Tax breaks through the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) program.
📝 Requirements:
- Move to rural or inland Portugal.
- Must have proof of income or remote job.
5. Greece – Get Paid Through Remote Work Visa & Relocation Support
Greece now offers incentives through its Digital Nomad Visa combined with tax breaks and local subsidies.
✅ What They Offer:
- 50% income tax exemption for 7 years.
- Housing subsidies in specific towns.
- Community support networks.
📝 Requirements:
- Income of at least €3,500/month.
- Remote job or self-employment.
- Long-term commitment (at least 2 years).
6. Ireland – Remote Work & Regional Enterprise Incentives
In 2025, Ireland is targeting tech professionals and entrepreneurs through its “Our Rural Future” initiative.
✅ What They Offer:
- Cash grants up to €10,000 for entrepreneurs.
- Free coworking spaces in rural hubs.
- Housing assistance in small towns.
📝 Requirements:
- Move to a participating town.
- Start a business or work remotely.
7. Canada – Move to the Yukon or Atlantic Provinces
Canada’s Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) continue to support international newcomers.
✅ What They Offer:
- Immigration fast-tracking.
- Moving grants of up to CAD 5,000.
- Job placements and settlement services.
📝 Requirements:
- Secure a job offer in a rural or northern community.
- Meet Canadian immigration criteria.
8. United States – Cash for Remote Workers in Select States
Several U.S. cities and states are paying remote workers to relocate in 2025, including Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Topeka, Kansas.
✅ What They Offer:
- Up to $15,000 in cash and benefits.
- Free coworking space memberships.
- Networking opportunities and local perks.
📝 Requirements:
- Must work remotely or be self-employed.
- Commit to living in the city for at least a year.
9. Germany – Startup Support in Eastern Regions
Germany has begun offering incentives for entrepreneurs and skilled migrants in former East Germany and rural Bavaria.
✅ What They Offer:
- Startup grants up to €25,000.
- Subsidized housing and office space.
- Business mentoring and community integration programs.
📝 Requirements:
- Create a business plan.
- Employ local workers (optional).
- Reside in the area for 2+ years.
10. Mauritius – Incentives for Foreign Professionals and Retirees
This island paradise is now offering relocation benefits through its Premium Visa and Work in Paradise program.
✅ What They Offer:
- Long-stay visa for up to 1 year.
- Business grants and tax perks.
- Support for retirees and remote workers.
📝 Requirements:
- Minimum income of $1,500/month.
- Proof of accommodation and health insurance.
How to Qualify for These Relocation Programs
To take advantage of these opportunities, you’ll generally need to:
- Prove Financial Stability: Remote job, self-employment, or minimum income level.
- Commit to Residency: Most programs require at least 1–3 years.
- Contribute Locally: Either start a business, work remotely, or participate in the local economy.
- Apply with Proper Documentation: Passports, income proof, insurance, etc.
Benefits of Moving Abroad with Incentives
- Lower Cost of Living: Many target locations are far more affordable than big cities.
- Cultural Enrichment: Enjoy new languages, cuisine, and traditions.
- Professional Growth: New market opportunities and global experience.
- Quality of Life: Many locations boast better work-life balance and nature access.
Conclusion: Should You Take the Leap?
If you’ve ever considered living abroad, 2025 might be the perfect time to act. With countries actively paying foreigners to move, the barriers to entry are lower than ever. Whether you’re a remote worker, entrepreneur, or someone seeking a fresh start, the world is opening its doors—and wallets—to welcome you.
📌 Take the First Step Today:
- Research the specific program requirements.
- Begin your visa or permit application.
- Join expat forums and connect with others who have made the move.
💬 Have a question? Drop it in the comments or reach out for a country-specific relocation guide!
3 FAQs About Countries Paying Foreigners to Move in 2025
1. Are these relocation programs legitimate?
Yes, most of these programs are backed by local or national governments. However, it’s important to verify eligibility and apply through official channels or verified relocation services.
2. Do I have to speak the local language to apply?
Not always. While learning the language is encouraged, many programs (especially for remote workers) only require English proficiency, especially in Europe or digital nomad-focused countries.
3. Can I bring my family with me?
Absolutely. Many countries, including Italy, Japan, and Canada, offer additional grants or incentives for families with children. Be sure to check family eligibility in each program.