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The 9 countries that'll pay you to move there.

The prospect of moving to a new country is an exciting one, but for most of us, it seems out of reach — both practically and financially.

Imagine, then, if money was no object. Better yet, imagine receiving a wad of local currency for your troubles. 

Turns out, some countries are offering financial carrots to combat declining populations and talent drain, and rolling out the red carpet to entice new citizens to move into specific areas.

"It's a win-win: you get a fresh start and a helping hand, while local economies enjoy a much-needed boost," says Wayne Mills, the Head of Operations at international shipping company, Seven Seas Worldwide.

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Video via Mamamia.

Ireland: Up to $136,491.60 

Ireland is offering up to $136,491.60 in cash grants for those ready to buy and breathe new life into vacant homes on its scenic coastal islands. 

"There are 30 coastal islands whose total population is only around 3,000 people," says Wayne. 

"Ireland is looking to revitalise and future-proof these beautiful islands by attracting a newer, younger population." 

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The only condition is that you must be willing to buy and renovate one of these island gems, and live in it for at least 10 years.

"This program is for everyone, but it's especially targeting remote workers and digital nomads," says Wayne. 

"The Irish government is pledging to improve transport links, internet coverage, and health services as part of an overall plan to invest in the islands' 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."

Ireland.Ireland is offering up to $136,491.60 in cash grants. Image: Getty.

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Switzerland: $35,374 plus $15,380 

Switzerland is offering young adults under 45 to receive a bonus of $35,374 with an extra $15,380 per child when they settle down in the alpine village of Albinen. 

You'll need to buy a home worth over $353,740, pledge to live in Switzerland for at least a decade, and become a Swiss citizen.

"Switzerland is routinely mentioned as one of the safest and happiest countries in the world," says Wayne. 

"Albinen is set right in the middle of the stunning Swiss Alps, so if you fancy enjoying a serene lifestyle in one of the world's most beautiful countries — snow-capped mountains included — consider moving to Albinen."

Switzerland.Switzerland is offering young adults under 45 to receive a bonus of $35,374. Image: Getty.

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Spain: $4,827.58 

If you make the move to Ponga, Asturias, you'll receive $4,827.58, plus another payment of the same amount for each newborn in your family.

"Ponga is the name of both a town and municipality in one of Spain's most northern regions, Asturias," says Wayne. 

"Ponga is a little off the beaten track for tourists, but its mountainous landscape is absolutely jaw-dropping. It's the perfect place to live in tune with nature — and the region produces amazing wines."

Ponga, Asturias.Head to Spain and receive almost $5000. Image: Getty.

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Greece: $812.45/month 

To combat the island's declining population, Greece is offering $812.45 per month to new residents of the picturesque island of Antikythera for three years after they move in.

"Antikythera has only 45 permanent residents as of right now, so it's a tranquil and close-knit community," says Wayne. 

"They really want to attract young families to revitalise their island and bring back some youthful energy, so you'll no doubt be extremely popular as soon as you arrive."

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Greece.A monthly payment is up for grabs if you move to this beautiful island. Image: feelgreece.com

Italy (Calabria): $45,497.20 

Around $45,497.20 is up for grabs for those who move to certain small villages in Calabria and kick-start a business or fill essential jobs. You'll need to be under 40 and arrive within 90 days after your acceptance into the program to qualify. 

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"Calabria is on the southwestern tip of Italy, in one of the sunniest and quietest, most picturesque regions of Italy," says Wayne. "This is the perfect chance to live the dreamy, small Italian village life."

Calabria, Italy.Around $45,497.20 is up for grabs for those who move to certain small villages in Calabria. Image: Getty.

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Italy (Presicce and Acquarica): up to $48,747 

The beautiful neighbouring towns of Presicce and Acquarica, located in the region of Puglia in the 'heel' of Italy, are offering new residents up to $48,747 to buy a house, plus $1,624.90 per newborn. To qualify, you must purchase a property and register it as your primary residence.

Puglia, Italy.New residents are being offered up to $48,747 to buy a house. Image: Getty.

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Italy (Sardinia): $24,375 

The amazing island of Sardinia is offering $24,375 for newcomers who buy or renovate a home in an island town with fewer than 3,000 residents. You'll also need to become a full-time Sardinian resident within 18 months of purchasing your property.

"This program aims to attract young people to Sardinia's charming towns, rejuvenate local life, and keep the Italian countryside thriving," says Wayne. 

"Sardinia is one of the most beautiful parts of Italy, and being paid to live there is such an amazing deal, you'd be mad not to snap it up."

The island of Sardinia.The island of Sardinia is offering $24,375 for newcomers. Image: Getty.

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Japan: up to $48,816

As part of the Regional Revitalisation Program, Japan is offering up to $48,816 to those willing to move to rural areas. This program aims to repopulate quieter parts of the country after young locals have moved to big cities like Tokyo and Kyoto in droves.

"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," says Wayne. 

"This is the perfect opportunity to snap up one of these amazing properties and start an amazing new adventure." 

Rural Japan.Japan is paying residents to move to stunning rural areas. Image: Getty.

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Canada: up to $21,938

Canada offers tuition reimbursement of up to $21,938 for students who study at a Canadian institution for four years and move permanently to Saskatchewan. This incentive aims to help students offset their tuition costs while filling Saskatchewan's growing need for skilled professionals. It's a chance to study, save, and start a life in Canada's beautiful landscapes.

Saskatchewan, CanandaStudy in Canada and move to Saskatchewan to receive some cash. Image: Getty.

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The US States also offers some big perks.

Several US states are also throwing cash around to welcome newcomers looking for a fresh start. 

  • Alaska: Full-time residents of Alaska receive an annual payment of about $2,019.04 through the Permanent Fund Dividend. The only catch? You need to stay in Alaska for a full calendar year.

  • Oklahoma (Tulsa): Remote workers can score $15,389 for relocating to Tulsa, provided they stay at least a year. The package includes a free year's membership at a co-working space, making it easy to plug into the local scene and meet like-minded professionals.

  • Indiana: With a relocation package worth up to $23,083.50, Indiana is enticing new residents to towns like Noblesville. In addition to the cash, newcomers get a co-working membership and a season pass to the Forest Park Aquatic Centre — perfect for family fun or relaxing weekends.

  • West Virginia: Known for its wild, natural beauty, West Virginia offers an impressive $30,778 relocation package with a twist: you get free outdoor activities too.

"Expect perks like skiing, rock climbing, and golf, plus plenty of social events," says Wayne. "It's the best way to enjoy West Virginia's natural beauty while settling into the social scene of your new town."

  • Kentucky: In certain towns, Kentucky offers new residents $7,694.50 in cash incentives, with additional bonuses for healthcare and education professionals. 

    Image: Touchstone Pictures.

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