European Relocation Programs: 4 International Destinations That Will Pay You Up To $82,000 To Move

Dreaming of starting fresh in Europe but worried about funding? Several European governments are actively offering financial incentives to people who are willing to relocate to their regions. These places that will pay you to move there internationally represent a unique opportunity to make your overseas relocation dream affordable. We’ve identified four compelling destinations offering substantial compensation, ranging from $3,100 to $82,000, depending on the location and specific program requirements.

Ponga, Spain — Tiny Mountain Town With Cash Incentives

Nestled in the Asturias region of northern Spain, Ponga is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve that offers one of the more modest but accessible relocation rewards. The Spanish government provides approximately $3,100 per person to those willing to settle there. However, this mountain village demands commitment — you must maintain residency for a full five years to receive the payment.

The catch: Ponga lives up to its remote charm with a population of just 600 residents, and the nearest substantial city sits roughly 90 minutes away. This is genuine small-town living, which appeals to those seeking escape from urban life but may challenge those accustomed to metropolitan amenities. The picturesque river valley setting offers natural beauty and a tight-knit community, though limited job opportunities and services require careful consideration.

Antikythera, Greece — Island Life With Monthly Support and Free Housing

For those romanticizing Greek island living, Antikythera presents an unusually generous package. Located on the northwestern edge of Crete, this Aegean island destination will pay you to move there internationally through an innovative incentive structure. Up to five qualifying families can receive approximately $515 monthly for three years, plus they get a brand-new, fully constructed house at no cost.

The trade-off is significant: Antikythera lacks conventional banking infrastructure — no ATMs or banks exist on the island, and supermarkets are non-existent. The island is accessible only by ferry, making frequent mainland visits impractical. Isolation is literal here, suiting only those genuinely committed to island existence and prepared for limited commercial services.

Sardinia, Italy — Mediterranean Relaxation With Real Estate Requirements

Italy’s largest Mediterranean island combines vacation-quality living with relocation incentives worth approximately $15,000. Sardinia attracts those seeking beaches, culinary experiences, and outdoor recreation, with financial support transforming extended vacation fantasies into sustainable reality.

Sardinia’s program comes with strict qualifying conditions. You must select a municipality with fewer than 3,000 residents for your relocation. The funding must be invested in purchasing or renovating residential property, and you must personally spend at least double the government grant amount. Additionally, you must establish permanent residency within 18 months and commit to full-time residence in your property — no short-term rentals or investment property conversions allowed.

Ireland’s Offshore Islands Program — Maximum Financial Support for Strategic Settlement

Ireland offers the most substantial relocation compensation through its “Our Living Islands” initiative, providing up to $82,000 to individuals willing to move to one of 30 designated remote islands. The program explicitly aims to preserve sustainable communities and ensure offshore islands remain vibrant, populated regions for future generations.

Eligibility requires purchasing pre-1993 properties that have remained vacant for at least two years — essentially properties predating modern construction standards. Government funding must go toward renovation or refurbishment of these older homes. Critically, these properties cannot become investment vehicles; they cannot be converted to short-term rentals like Airbnb or traditional long-term rental businesses. The objective is permanent community residency, not real estate speculation.

Making Your International Move Decision

These places that will pay you to move internationally demonstrate how creative policy can address population decline in remote regions. Each destination balances financial incentives against specific lifestyle commitments. Ponga suits those seeking authentic small-town European culture on a modest budget. Antikythera appeals to true island enthusiasts prepared for complete isolation. Sardinia offers Mediterranean living with real estate investment requirements. Ireland’s program provides maximum support for those committed to older property restoration.

Before selecting your relocation destination internationally, evaluate not just the financial incentive but your genuine compatibility with each location’s lifestyle demands, accessibility limitations, and long-term residency commitments. The most generous payment means nothing if the destination fundamentally mismatches your living preferences and practical requirements.