10 Amazing Countries That Will Pay You to Move There in 2024

Hours Hours Updated on

Dreaming of starting fresh in a new country? Imagine being paid to do it!

While the idea may sound too good to be true, many countries are rolling out incentives to attract new residents.

Whether you’re a remote worker, an adventurous expat, or someone simply looking for a lifestyle change, there are places that will actually pay you to live there.

Here’s a list of ten amazing countries offering cash incentives, housing assistance, and more to encourage you to make the move in 2024.

1. Italy 🇮🇹

  • Where: Several small towns across Italy, including regions in Calabria and Sicily
  • Incentives: Up to €28,000 in cash grants, tax breaks
  • Visa Requirements: U.S. citizens can stay up to 90 days visa-free. For longer stays, consider Italy’s Elective Residence Visa.
  • Why It’s Great: The charm of Italian villages, low cost of living, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle make Italy irresistible to expats.

Italy is serious about reviving its small towns, so if you’ve dreamed of calling a cozy Italian village “home,” this could be your chance!

Many towns even offer grants to those willing to buy and renovate property.

2. Greece 🇬🇷

  • Where: Various remote islands like Antikythera
  • Incentives: Up to €500 monthly for three years
  • Visa Requirements: Greece offers a Digital Nomad Visa, allowing remote workers to live there while working for non-Greek companies.
  • Why It’s Great: Amazing weather, stunning beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle.

Greece is attracting digital nomads with cash and the allure of island life.

Perfect for an American in another country looking to slow down and soak up the Mediterranean vibe.

3. Spain 🇪🇸

  • Where: Small towns like Ponga in Asturias, Rubia in Galicia
  • Incentives: Up to €3,000 per family, plus extra for children
  • Visa Requirements: Spain offers a non-lucrative visa for those with income from outside Spain, ideal for retirees or remote workers.
  • Why It’s Great: Lively culture, rich history, and vibrant expat communities.

Spain’s rural areas are calling, especially if you’re looking to move to another country with a strong sense of community and rich traditions.

4. Ireland 🇮🇪

  • Where: Various rural regions
  • Incentives: Grants for relocating and starting businesses
  • Visa Requirements: Ireland’s Immigrant Investor Program can fast-track residency for those with capital.
  • Why It’s Great: Beautiful landscapes, friendly locals, and the chance to explore your Irish roots.

Ireland’s scenic countryside is perfect for anyone wanting a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle.

5. Switzerland 🇨🇭

  • Where: Albinen, a small mountain town
  • Incentives: Up to CHF 25,000 per adult and CHF 10,000 per child
  • Visa Requirements: Non-EU citizens need a residence permit; a job offer or investment can help secure it.
  • Why It’s Great: Quality of life, safety, and breathtaking landscapes.

Albinen is inviting young families to settle down and help grow the community in this picturesque Swiss town.

6. Japan 🇯🇵

  • Where: Various rural towns, including Okutama near Tokyo
  • Incentives: Cash grants for housing, up to ¥1 million
  • Visa Requirements: A working visa or residence permit is needed; Japan offers long-term visas for skilled professionals.
  • Why It’s Great: Unique culture, great healthcare, and safety.

Japan is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant, rich culture while enjoying a high standard of living.

7. New Zealand 🇳🇿

  • Where: South Island towns like Kaitangata
  • Incentives: Housing assistance, land packages
  • Visa Requirements: Work visas are available for skilled professionals; New Zealand also has a long-term resident visa.
  • Why It’s Great: Outdoor adventures, laid-back lifestyle, and friendly locals.

New Zealand’s small towns are ideal if you want to move to another country with natural beauty and a strong community vibe.

8. Portugal 🇵🇹

  • Where: Rural regions and the island of Madeira
  • Incentives: Grants for entrepreneurs and remote workers
  • Visa Requirements: Portugal’s Golden Visa offers residency for those investing in property or business.
  • Why It’s Great: Affordable living, beautiful coastlines, and a relaxed way of life.

Portugal is one of the most popular spots for expats due to its welcoming atmosphere and great weather.

9. Albania 🇦🇱

  • Where: Coastal and mountain villages
  • Incentives: Low cost of living, tax breaks
  • Visa Requirements: Albania offers a visa-free stay for U.S. citizens for up to a year.
  • Why It’s Great: Beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and a rapidly growing expat community.

Albania’s stunning coastline and mountain views make it an underrated gem for those looking to live affordably abroad.

10. Chile 🇨🇱

  • Where: Rural areas and the Patagonia region
  • Incentives: Financial incentives for startups and remote workers
  • Visa Requirements: Chile offers several residency visas, including an investor visa for entrepreneurs.
  • Why It’s Great: Diverse landscapes, economic stability, and modern amenities.

Chile is a fantastic choice for nature lovers and adventure-seekers, with Patagonia right at your doorstep.

Tips for Moving Abroad

When planning to move to another country, keep these tips in mind:

  • Research Visa Requirements: Each country has specific visa rules, especially for Americans. Look into work, residence, or digital nomad visas.
  • Understand the Costs: While some places will pay you to live there, it’s wise to factor in living costs and any relocation expenses.
  • Immerse Yourself: Moving to another country can be an adjustment, so embrace the local culture and be open to new experiences.

With so many options, 2024 could be your year to start a new chapter abroad.

Who knew you could get paid to live in some of the most beautiful places on Earth?